Houseboat Adventures with Parrot Cove in Roanoke, VA - Roanoke

Houseboat Adventures with Parrot Cove in Roanoke, VA

Roanokeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–4 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion needed beyond basic boat handling.

Overview

Set sail on a 39-foot houseboat with Parrot Cove Boat Rentals on Virginia's Smith Mountain Lake. Discover a unique floating getaway where comfort meets nature’s beauty.

Details

Located on the stunning Smith Mountain Lake in Roanoke, Virginia, Parrot Cove Boat Rentals offers an unforgettable private houseboat experience, perfect for families, couples, and groups looking to explore the region’s beautiful waterways. Smith Mountain Lake, known for its clear blue waters and scenic coves, provides a remarkable backdrop for a relaxing getaway. This reservoir spans over 20,000 acres and is surrounded by lush Appalachian foothills, making it an ideal destination for water-based recreation.

Parrot Cove Boat Rentals specializes in 39-foot houseboats that function as floating campers, equipped with all the essentials to ensure a comfortable stay on the water. Guests praise the boats for their cleanliness, reliability, and thoughtful layout that accommodates everything from a peaceful family vacation to a lively friends’ retreat. The staff is frequently noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, with personalized service that enhances the entire experience. Whether it’s assistance with docking or recommendations on local attractions, Parrot Cove’s team goes above and beyond.

The lake itself offers unique features including calm waters sheltered from harsh storms, making it a safe and enjoyable environment even for less experienced boaters. The surrounding scenery features dense hardwood forests and rocky shoreline coves, providing peaceful spots to anchor and enjoy nature. Some guests have enjoyed beaching the boats at night and tying off to trees, encouraging an intimate connection with the natural surroundings.

This houseboat experience stands out in the Roanoke outdoor recreation scene because it combines the flexibility to explore on your own pace with the comforts of a small mobile cabin. Unlike traditional boating or lake rentals, these houseboats provide space for cooking, showering, and even entertaining, making it a unique way to experience Virginia’s lake country.

Parrot Cove Boat Rentals' location at Smith Mountain Lake is a standout destination for anyone looking to unwind on the water, soak up views of the Appalachian foothills, and experience lake life in a thoroughly immersive way. From catching sunrise over the lake to star-gazing on the deck at night, this trip creates lasting memories rooted in Virginia’s natural beauty.

Trail Tips

Plan for Beaching at Night

Anchor points may not hold well in windy conditions, so be prepared to beach the boat and tie off to shore trees if needed.

Fuel Costs Add Up

Be mindful of fuel expenses for both the boat and the onboard generator, especially for longer trips or multiple nights.

Reserve Early for Peak Seasons

Popular summer months book up quickly, so plan and make reservations well in advance to secure your preferred dates.

Bring Entertainment Gear

Since the houseboats come with power, consider bringing games, movies, or music for an enjoyable evening onboard.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Little Creek Cove — a quiet, secluded spot perfect for anchoring and swimming
  • Bob White Trail Shoreline — offers scenic hiking and wildlife viewing near the lake

Wildlife

  • Ospreys — frequently seen hunting over the water
  • White-tailed deer — common in surrounding forests and shorelines

History

Smith Mountain Lake was completed in 1966 as a hydroelectric reservoir, becoming Virginia's second-largest lake and a hub for outdoor recreation.

Conservation

Efforts are in place to maintain water quality and protect native flora and fauna, emphasizing responsible boating and waste management among visitors.

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour sunrise
Late afternoon
Blue hour at dusk

Best Viewpoints

  • Lookout Rock near the southern shores
  • The deck of the houseboat at sunrise
  • Little Creek Cove for natural framing

What to Photograph

Lake reflections and glassy waters
Boathouse architecture and decks
Local wildlife such as ospreys and deer

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Footwear

Essential

Protect your feet and keep a good grip when boarding or swimming around the houseboat.

summer specific

Life Jackets

Essential

Safety first—always wear or have accessible life jackets while on or around the water.

Portable Cooler

Keep drinks and perishables cold during warm weather outings on the lake.

summer specific

Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife watching and scouting for ideal anchoring spots on the lake.

spring specific

Frequently Asked Questions

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