Located along the shores of Buggs Island Lake (also known as Kerr Reservoir), Occoneechee State Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This 2,698-acre park offers a diverse range of activities that cater to nature lovers, explorers and those just looking to unwind.

As you plan your next visit to Occoneechee, here are five must-do activities.

1. Hit the water.

Sunrise boating at Occoneechee

Occoneechee provides 24-hour access to Virginia’s largest lake, Buggs Island. The 48,000-acre lake is known as one of the state’s best bass fishing locations and for producing record-setting catfish, often larger than 100 lbs.

Boating, motorized and non-motorized, is allowed year-round, and the park has three boat ramps. You can even rent fishing boats, pontoons, kayaks and standup paddleboards from Clarksville Water Sports, located within the park.

Occoneechee also offers marina slip rentals (PDF): six for overnight park guests to rent and an additional 45 slips that are available to rent on an annual or monthly basis.

Before you hit the water, you'll need a valid Virginia Freshwater Fishing or North Carolina Inland Fishing License to fish, and if you're not an overnight guest, a boat launching fee is required.

2. Cool off at the splash park.

The splash park at Occoneechee

Occoneechee is one of two Virginia State Parks that have a splash park. It’s open May through Labor Day and features a variety of interactive elements, including sprinklers, water cannons and splash pads, designed to provide endless fun and excitement.

A small playground, two charcoal grills and a picnic shelter surround the splash park area. Restrooms are available on-site, and there are 25 parking spaces.

Admission to the splash park is included in daily parking, camping and cabin fees. Hours vary, so check the park's website before your visit.

3. Learn about the past.

The visitor center and museum at Occoneechee State Park

The Occoneechi Indians lived on an island near what is now the park until 1676. The strategic location enabled them to play a major role in the fur trade up and down the East Coast. When Europeans arrived, the tribe's influence was at its peak, and their language was commonly used in trade.

You can learn more about the Occoneechi Tribe, including their history and how they lived, at the visitor center and museum, which is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

While you’re at the park, take the 0.7-mile Old Plantation Interpretive Trail to explore the area just as Native Americans, Spanish explorers, European settlers, enslaved African Americans, Civil War soldiers and freemen did over centuries.

The family-friendly trail is located in a historic section of the park that was once home to the Occoneechee Plantation. It was built in 1839 by William Townes and burned down in 1898, a fire historians say was probably caused by candles on a Christmas tree.

Interpretive signs along the trail provide insights into the rich history of the area, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs and curious minds alike.

4. Stay overnight.

A waterfront site at campground C

Occoneechee offers excellent camping facilities, making it a perfect destination for an overnight adventure.

Campground B has 14 sites with electric and water hookups for RVs up to 35 feet long. Campground C has 34 sites, 11 of which have water views, for RVs up to 30 feet. Not all of the sites in campground C have electric and water hookups, so check the site details (PDF) before making your reservation.

The park is equestrian friendly and has 11 pull-though campsites with electricity for trailers up to 65 feet long, 12 covered stalls and water hydrants in the area for filling your tanks.

If camping isn’t for you, the park has 11 furnished cabins, two family lodges and three yurts.

Reservations can be made 11 months in advance at reservevaparks.com.

5. Attend a ranger-led program.

Guided canoe trips are one of the ranger-led programs the park offers

The ranger-led programs at Occoneechee offer an enriching and educational experience, providing deeper insights into the park's natural and cultural heritage.

Throughout the year, the park's knowledgeable and passionate park rangers provide a variety of adventures, including archery lessons, guided canoe trips, ranger-led hikes and educational tours that deep dive into the history of the Occoneechi Tribe and the plantation era.

Interactive and engaging, ranger-led programs are designed for all ages, making them perfect for families, school groups, first-time visitors and seasoned park-goers.

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In addition to the five activities we mentioned above, Occoneechee also offers 22 miles of trails, 7.2 miles of which are multi-use, a 20-target (10 3D and 10 hay bale) outdoor archery range, and a 1,900-acre Wildlife Management Area, which permits hunting.

To learn more about the park and to start planning your visit, go to virginiastateparks.gov/Occoneechee.