Boating At Kerr Reservoir In Virginia

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Kerr Lake, also known as Buggs Island Lake, spans the border between Virginia and North Carolina, with the majority of its waters lying in Virginia. This expansive reservoir is one of the largest lakes in the Southeastern United States, offering a wealth of recreational opportunities and natural beauty to visitors.

Located in a region known for its rich history and scenic landscapes, Kerr Lake is surrounded by numerous attractions. Occoneechee State Park, located on the Virginia side of the lake, offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Boating is a major draw at Kerr Lake, with its vast expanse providing plenty of room for boaters of all kinds. Whether it's cruising on a pontoon boat, water skiing, or enjoying other water sports, the lake caters to a variety of interests.

Marinas dot the shoreline of Kerr Lake, providing boaters with essential amenities and services, such as boat slips, fueling stations, and boat maintenance facilities. The marinas enhance the boating experience by ensuring convenience and accessibility for both seasoned boaters and novices alike.

Boat launch ramps are readily available at Kerr Lake, allowing boaters to easily enter and exit the water. These launch ramps are strategically located around the lake, providing easy access to the water for those towing their boats or renting them locally.

Visitors can find rental boats at various locations around the lake, offering an array of options for those who don't own their watercraft. Whether seeking a relaxing day on a pontoon boat or trying out kayaking for the first time, rental boats provide opportunities for all to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kerr Lake.

Nearby cities like Clarksville, Virginia, and Henderson, North Carolina, provide access to amenities, restaurants, and cultural experiences for visitors exploring the Kerr Lake area. These charming towns add an extra dimension to the lake's allure, making it an appealing destination for both outdoor activities and cultural exploration.

The boating season at Kerr Lake typically spans from spring to early fall, aligning with the region's pleasant weather and optimal conditions for water activities. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a day trip with family and friends, Kerr Lake invites visitors to make the most of its recreational offerings and scenic splendor.

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to Kerr Lake for its abundance of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more. The lake's status as a popular fishing destination attracts anglers seeking to cast their lines and enjoy the thrill of reeling in their catch.

Camping opportunities are available around Kerr Lake, providing visitors with options to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the beauty of the lake's surroundings. Camping enthusiasts can choose from various campgrounds, some of which offer lakefront views and a chance to experience the serenity of Kerr Lake's natural setting.

Boating, camping and fishing.

A great body of water for pleasure boating, Kerr Lake aka Buggs Island Lake is a dream destination for fishing, boating and camping. This 50,000-acre reservoir, located on the southern border of the state, off Interstate 85. The lake is fertile with healthy populations of fish and baitfish. With marinas and campgrounds scattered around the lake you can easily locate most any services you require to enhance your stay at John H. Kerr Reservoir. Explore the 850 miles of shoreline and for an ideal place to wet a line. Fishing from boats, kayaks, canoes or from shore are all popular here. Avid anglers can chase after bass, crappie, walleye, white bass, perch, stripers, catfish and sunfish. During spring and fall the fish tend to favor shoreline areas, while moving deeper and schooling up during summer and winter. Once you find an area with baitfish, fishing should be good. Virginia fishing licenses are legal lake-wide. North Bend Park has a handicap accessible fishing pier. Their are numerous boat launch ramps, parking, campgrounds and public access areas.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Buffalo Park & Campground - 434 374-2063

Staunton River State Park Campground - 434 572-4623

Occoneechee State Park Campground - 434 374-2210

Rudds Creek Campground - 434 738-6827

North Bend Park & Campground - 434 738-0059

Buggs Island Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Kerr Reservoir include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, white perch and striped bass.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Blue catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Bluegill White Bass White Perch Striped bass