Posted October 05, 2018 | Updated August 20, 2020

Many of our lakes are surrounded by leafy fall goodness, so grab a paddle, lace up your boots, and get that picnic ready-- fresh air and beautiful fall scenery await. 

 

These four lakes are sure to knock your socks off this fall. 

1. | DOUTHAT STATE PARK

Pick up a paddle and experience the leaves from the lake at Douthat State Park.

The mountains come alive in the fall.

Amid some of Virginia's most breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors enjoy interpretive programs, four miles of stream fishing and a 50-acre lake stocked with trout. Known by many as a  preimere mountain biking destination, there are over 40 miles of wooded trails.

The park also has 32 cabins and three lodges that accommodate 15, 16 and 18 guests each. For directions and more information about Douthat State Park, click here.

2. | BEAR CREEK LAKE STATE PARK

Mid-October is a perfect time to visit Bear Creek Lake State Park.

Sit quietly along the water's edge and watching the leaves change.

A perfect getaway for the outdoor enthusiast, with a 40-acre lake featuring a boat launch, and fishing pier. There are trails and fun park activities for the whole family. Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland State Forest in central Virginia, Bear Creek Lake is less than an hour west of Richmond.

The park also has 12 cabins and one lodge that can accommodate up to 16 guests (hint: Cabins 2, 4, 5, 11 and 12 are water-view). For directions and more information about Bear Creek Lake State Park, click here.

3. | CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK

Explore a cove or wander out to sit on the dock near your cabin to catch this view.

A fishing paradise, the early bird gets the worm (and the early worm gets the fish).

This stunning park is ideal for camping, hiking and picnicking, and Claytor Lake is well-known for sport fishing and boating. 

There are three lodges and 15 cabins that overlook the 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat. You will be hard-pressed to find lodging that has water views from every cabin, like at Claytor Lake State Park. For directions and more information about Claytor Lake State Park, click here.

4. | SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE STATE PARK

Autumn leaves reflect on a quiet cove at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

Take time to get outside and explore this fall.

Located on the second largest freshwater lake in the state, this picturesque park is the water enthusiast's paradise. There are is a boat ramp and a universally accessible fishing pier. Enjoy picnicking, a visitor center, special programs, camping and miles of trails.

This park also has 20 cabins with access to nearby boat docks. Eight of these feature lovely water-views. For directions and more information about Smith Mountain Lake State Park, click here.

STAY A FEW NIGHTS

Fall in a CCC-built cabin at Douthat State Park (this is cabin 7 taken Nov 4, 2012).

If you can't get out to leaf peep before the end of October, not to worry as the leaves like to hold on in Virginia into early November. 

For more information about overnight accommodations in cabins and lodges click here, or call 800-933-7275 during regular business hours. But hurry because the cabins book up pretty quick, so reserve yours today.

If you can't reserve in advance but instead want to try to wing it, then don't forget our Last-Minute Cabin Discount option for any available cabin for the upcoming weekend. Because people do cancel, you will have the opportunity to save 25% off the current rate, just call and mention this special rate. Not available for online reservations.

 

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You may also enjoy: Start Planning Your Autumn Adventures Today.

Posted October 05, 2018 | Updated August 20, 2020