Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

Lake paddling at Virginia State Parks

Whether you’re a beginner paddler looking for a safe place to learn or a sport fisher looking to snag your next bass, Virginia State Parks can deliver the perfect weekend at the lake. From deep blue gems such as Hungry Mother and Douthat tucked away in the Blue Ridge to wide-open Lake Anna and Buggs Island, our lake paddles provide the perfect setting for your getaway.

Popular lake paddling destinations

Claytor Lake State Park offers paddlers access to the 472 acres of water. While the park doesn’t rent boats directly, guests may visit Claytor Lake Water Sports at the marina to rent canoes, kayaks, hydro-bikes and pedal-boats.
Holliday Lake State Park rents canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Jon boats and pedal-boats from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Guests can select their craft and explore the pristine 119-acre lake known for fishing and clean water. Visitors also enjoy the park’s interpretive programs, many of which focus on aquatic life in the lake.
Occoneechee State Park offers rentals through Clarksville Marine Rentals and provides access to the largest lake in the state. Buggs Island Lake is 48,000 acres ripe for fishing and paddling. Well-conditioned paddlers will enjoy several wildlife management areas that protect the lake from development and provide miles of intricate shoreline to explore.