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Weddings at Smith Mountain Lake State Park


1235 State Park Rd., Huddleston, VA 24104; Phone: 540-297-6066; Email: smlake@dcr.virginia.gov


Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake State Park is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The 1,248-acre park is home to the second-largest freshwater lake in Virginia and offers visitors a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing and swimming. The park's well-maintained trails provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. Its sandy beach, lush picnic areas and campgrounds cater to day-trippers and those seeking a longer, immersive outdoor experience. Smith Mountain Lake State Park is ideal for couples who want to say "I do" in a casual outdoor setting with their closest family and friends.

Park Amenities

  • Outdoor space
  • ADA accessible
  • Campground
  • Cabins
  • Bunkhouse
  • Playground
  • Picnic shelters
  • Hiking
  • Boat rentals
  • Visitor center

Locations for Ceremonies and Receptions

Amphitheater

Dimensions: n/a

Ceremony Guests: 55 guests

Reception Guests: 55 guests

Amenities and Specifics

  • Electricity: Six receptacles. 
  • The park does not provide folding tables, chairs, decorations or other equipment for ceremonies or receptions. All rentals and aspects of setup are the wedding party's responsibility.
  • In the event of bad weather, the park does not offer an indoor option for weddings, so the wedding party should secure a backup venue or rent a tent. 
  • A Special Use Permit Application must be submitted to the park office at least two weeks before your event. 
  • There are temporary boat docks near the amphitheater, which remain open to the public, so there is no expectation of total privacy during events held at the amphitheater.

Fees

  • Full-day amphitheater rental (8:15 a.m. to dusk): $84.24 (including tax).
  • $25 Special Use Permit Application fee.
  • $7 parking fee per vehicle. In most cases, the park can implement a ticket system so the wedding party can pay the entire amount at the end of the event.

Service Providers

To view the availability of local florists, caterers, photographers, bakeries, etc., please visit our local chamber or tourism department websites:

Other Information

Contact

For specific questions, please contact the park at 540-297-6066 or email smlake@dcr.virginia.gov. Reservations must be made by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275.

FAQs

1. Do you have a venue for ceremonies or receptions?

  • Yes, the amphitheater is available throughout the year for smaller casual outdoor weddings. Reservations are made 11 months in advance. Please note: there are temporary boat docks located near the amphitheater, which remain open to the public during events at the amphitheater.

2. How many guests can the amphitheater accommodate?

  • The amphitheater can accommodate up to 55 guests.

3. Is the amphitheater available for rent for the full day?

  • The amphitheater is available from 8:15 a.m. to dusk.

4. Is internet access available?

  • No, Wi-Fi isn't available at the amphitheater; however, it is available at the nearby Discovery Center.

5. Are tables and chairs available?

  • No, tables and chairs aren't available at the amphitheater. The wedding party can rent tables and chairs from an outside vendor and is responsible for the set-up and take-down.

6. Are restrooms available at the amphitheater?

  • No, restrooms are not available at the amphitheater; however, they are available at the nearby Discovery Center.

7. Are caterers allowed?

  • Yes, park staff will need a copy of their certificate of insurance and health department permit prior to the start of the reservation.

8. Are DJs allowed?

  • Yes, park staff will need a copy of their certificate of insurance before the start of the reservation. Park staff will discuss appropriate sound levels before the start of your event.

9. Can I serve alcoholic beverages at my event?

  • Yes, an Alcoholic Beverage Control banquet license is required. Please provide a copy of the license to park staff at least one week before your event. The license needs to be posted at all times while the event is being held.

10. Are decorations permitted?

  • Decorations are permitted but may not be attached to painted surfaces and may not damage the facility in any way. Paint, glue, glitter or confetti are not allowed. No candles or open flames are allowed. Chafing dish fuel is allowed to be used with chafing dishes to keep food warm. Renters are responsible for damages or any excess cleaning of the facility required after the event.

11. Is ice available?

  • Yes, ice is available for purchase at the park office.

12. Is there a fireplace?

  • No, there is not a fireplace at the amphitheater.

13. Do I need to complete any additional paperwork through the park office?

  • Yes, a Special Use Permit Application, including a $25 fee, must be submitted to the park office at least two weeks before your event.

14. What if I need assistance after the office closes?

  • Staff will provide you with a ranger on-call phone number for after-hours assistance.

15. I would like to tour the facility before making a reservation. Is this possible?

  • Yes, please contact the park office at 540-297-6066 to schedule an appointment.

16. Do you have overnight facilities for our wedding guests?

  • Yes, the park offers cabins and camping. Guests can make reservations for overnight facilities 11 months in advance through the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-7275 and select option 5.

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