Summer is the best time to take advantage of Virginia’s gorgeous outdoor attractions.

And who wouldn’t like a trip to a scenic lake? Tucked away in southern Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake holds the title for the second-largest freshwater lake in the state. It’s here that visitors can hike, swim, relax, kayak, float, and enjoy just about any outdoor activity out there. With a manmade beach and mountain views, this corner of Virginia is a true vacation wonderland.

The breathtaking Smith Mountain Lake boasts 500 miles of shoreline and is so vast in size that it is shared among three different counties.
Diane V/TripAdvisor
Arriving at the Lake, you'll understand why this 1,500-acre park is often referred to as the "Jewel of the Blue Ridge."
Mtnmom5/TripAdvisor
Families from near and far travel to Smith Mountain to take advantage of the endless recreational opportunities. Summer is, of course, one of the best times to visit.
Julie C/TripAdvisor

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The park offers several trails which boast beautiful forest, mountain, and lake views. For a truly unique excursion, you might consider signing up for one of the guided evening hikes.
Plumeria500/TripAdvisor
Sunsets at Smith Mountain Lake are simply gorgeous. Fortunately, there are plenty of camp sites and facilities for those interested in spending more than an afternoon here.
Art D/TripAdvisor
Another favorite area is the man-made beach, where visitors can catch some rays and enjoy a quick dip in the water.
Diane C/TripAdvisor
With seemingly endless shorelines, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and a few blooms along the way, Smith Mountain Lake is like something from a postcard.
SMLBill/TripAdvisor
For more information about the lake and the accompanying state park, be sure to visit the official website here.

Although there are several access points to the lake, Smith Mountain Lake State Park can be found at 1235 State Park Rd., Huddleston, VA 24104. Have you visited this area recently? If so, we’d love to hear your experiences there!

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