THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
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.
Anchor points may not hold well in windy conditions, so be prepared to beach the boat and tie off to shore trees if needed.
essential PriorityBe mindful of fuel expenses for both the boat and the onboard generator, especially for longer trips or multiple nights.
info PriorityPopular summer months book up quickly, so plan and make reservations well in advance to secure your preferred dates.
warning PrioritySince the houseboats come with power, consider bringing games, movies, or music for an enjoyable evening onboard.
info PriorityProtect your feet and keep a good grip when boarding or swimming around the houseboat.
Safety first—always wear or have accessible life jackets while on or around the water.
Keep drinks and perishables cold during warm weather outings on the lake.
Enhance your wildlife watching and scouting for ideal anchoring spots on the lake.
Spring offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant greenery around Smith Mountain Lake, ideal for fishing and spotting wildlife emerging after winter.
Summer is peak season with warm waters perfect for swimming and longer houseboat trips, though early booking is recommended to secure rentals.
Fall transforms the lake’s surroundings with colorful leaves, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxed boating.
Winter brings tranquility and solitude to Smith Mountain Lake, but expect colder conditions and fewer outdoor recreation options.
Parrot Cove Boat Rentals typically does not require a boating license but recommends some basic boating experience for safety.
Houseboats come equipped with beds, kitchen facilities, a bathroom with shower, generator power, and onboard seating areas.
Yes, Smith Mountain Lake is perfect for swimming and fishing directly off the houseboat or from nearby coves.
Absolutely, the boats are family-friendly, though supervision around water is always important.
Pet policies may vary; it’s best to contact Parrot Cove directly to confirm their current pet allowance rules.
If anchors aren’t holding in windy conditions, beaching and tying off to trees is a recommended solution many renters use.
Lake reflections and glassy watersBoathouse architecture and decksLocal wildlife such as ospreys and deer
Roanoke
easy
1–4 days
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion needed beyond basic boat handling.
Smith Mountain Lake was completed in 1966 as a hydroelectric reservoir, becoming Virginia's second-largest lake and a hub for outdoor recreation.
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.