With various lakes and rivers flowing throughout the Central Virginia area, you can find a nice weekend outing spot that’s perfect for the whole crew. Here are some of our top picks on how to make the best of the Dog Days of Summer in LYH!
James River Adventures
James River Adventures
If you want to take a fun day trip on the James River, there’s a perfect opportunity right in Lynchburg’s backyard! James River Adventures is located right off the eastern bank of the James in Madison Heights. From here, you can bring or rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or tube and take a leisurely paddle or float downriver from Lynchburg to the Campbell County and Amherst areas. This organization is also active in education and nature conversancy, working to protect the James River against pollution and erosion, so having a day trip with them is a win-win. If you have your own canoe or kayak, you can use one of the public boat ramps to put in/take out in Lynchburg; don’t forget to pack lunch or a snack and stop at one of the islands or banks of the James for a lunch break.
TaleTeller’s Fly Shop
Image Via TaleTellers
If fly fishing is your activity of choice, TaleTellers Fly Shop has everything you need to get started. Uniting this part of the fishing community of Lynchburg with a passion for fishing and exciting stories, they also offer classes for people of all ages on how to tie custom flies and cast lines. They even have guided trips available during which you can test your skills.
Smith Mountain Lake
Image Via Lynchburg Living
A well-known and popular destination for many water-loving vacationers, this large man-made lake located in the Bedford area is only about a half-hour drive from the city. It provides many opportunities for a breezy outing, whether you’re going swimming, camping, boating or fishing. Smith Mountain Lake also has rental houses and cabins where you can kick back and relax with a favorite beverage or slip into the water for a nice cool-off.
Holliday Lake State Park
Holliday Lake Beach, photo by VA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation
Holliday Lake has it all for the outdoor adventure enthusiast. With a 250-acre park and a 150-acre lake located in the lush forests of Appomattox and Buckingham, there is plenty to see and do. Hike or ride a horse along the trails, or grab a boat and go paddling or fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Swim areas provide an opportunity for refreshing fun for all ages, and playgrounds offer young guests an opportunity to run around or dry off after a dip in the lake. So find a cozy spot at one of the 30 campsites, throw something on the grill and enjoy the simple and peaceful surroundings with family and friends.
James River State Park
James River State Park, photo by the VA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation
Only 25 miles away from Holliday Lake, James River State Park is a park area dedicated to the beauty of the James River. Camping and cabin renting are just the beginning of what can be done here. A seasonal canoe livery rents canoes, kayaks and tubes to the avid river explorer, with eight miles of river that you can paddle or float down while enjoying the gorgeous flora and fauna of Central Virginia. This is also a great location for fishing, with riverside and pondside options available.
With all of these great opportunities available, searching for fun summer outing activities won’t be difficult. Enjoy the outdoors in and around LYH, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen!