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Kerr Lake State Park adventures

Kerr Lake State Park Adventures

Kerr Lake State Park offers extensive lakeside recreation on one of the largest reservoirs in the Southeast, featuring fishing, boating, camping, and hiking opportunities.

1,788
Acres Protected
12
Miles of Trails
300,000+
Annual Visitors
1981
Year Established

About Kerr Lake State Park

 

Kerr Lake State Park is located on the southern shores of Kerr Lake (also known as Buggs Island Lake), which straddles the border between North Carolina and Virginia. Established in 1981, the park provides access to a 50,000-acre reservoir created by the John H. Kerr Dam on the Roanoke River. The lake and surrounding forested landscape feature hardwood and pine forests supporting diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous aquatic species. Visitors enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, as well as boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the extensive waterway. The park also has well-maintained campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails that run through mature woodlands and along the lake's edge. The area is popular for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when waterfowl and songbirds are abundant. Fishing tournaments and interpretive programs are regular features. The park is a favored destination for families and anglers seeking a blend of water-based fun and forest exploration. With scenic lake views and shaded trails, Kerr Lake State Park provides a relaxed atmosphere for visitors to connect with nature, unwind by the water, and partake in numerous recreational activities year-round.

Highlights

Highlight

John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the Southeast

Highlight

Boating and fishing access with boat ramps and marinas on the lake

Highlight

Well-developed camping facilities including both tent and RV sites

Highlight

Diverse birdwatching opportunities along the lake and forest edges

Notable Natural Features

John H. Kerr Dam

This large hydroelectric dam forms Kerr Lake and is a key landmark managing water flow in the Roanoke River Basin.

Williams Overlook Trail

Offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests with opportunities for wildlife observation.

Anchor Marina

A full-service marina providing boat rentals, fishing gear, and lake access for visitors.