Recreational Activities -
Sherando Lake Recreation Area
Welcome to Sherando Lake, known locally as the jewel of the Blue
Ridge Mountains. Sherando's beauty and history are part of the lives
of several generations of Virginians. Families bring their children
to Sherando an relive memories of their own parents bringing them.
The recreation area, situated on the shores of a 25-acre spring
fed lake, first opened to the public in 1936. Then, as now, the
buildings of native stone and timber blend into the natural and
rugged surroundings.
Members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built campsites,
restrooms, and shelters for the recreation area. During the 1960's,
the Soil Conservation Service created 7-acre Upper Sherando Lake
by building a flood control structure on Back Creek, just above
the camping area.
Through the years, more campsites and an amphitheater were built.
Renovations in 1996 added electrical hook-ups and barrier-free access
to the Riverbend campsites and in 1997, barrier-free bathhouses
to Riverbend and Meadow camping loops.
Activities
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Swim in Sherando Lake and enjoy a sandy beach, shaded play area,
bathhouses with warm showers, and a wading area for children.
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Boat on the 25-acre Sherado Lake and 7-acre Upper Sherando Lake.
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Fish from bank or boat for various types of trout, bass, bluegill,
and catfish.
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Bring lunch and cook it here. Sherando has more than 70 picnic
tables, grills, and a covered shelter in case of rain.
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Camp at one of three family camping loops--a total of 65 sites--or
at a group camping area for as many as 125 people; or rough-it
during hunting season.
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Attend summer evening programs at Sherando's outdoor amphitheater.
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Visit the beach pavilion for maps and brochures. Pay telephones,
vending machines, and ice are available in the small building
adjacent to the pavilion.
Swimming
Swim in Sherando Lake and enjoy a sandy beach, a wading area for
children, shaded play areas, and a bathhouse with warm showers.
There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
Sherando Lake Camping
Overnight visitors can camp in the 65-unit campground, of which
30 sites of electric hook-ups. Each unit has a parking spur, picnic
table, tent pad, and lantern post. Recreational vehicles up to 35
feet can be accommodated at some sites. The campground has
flush toilets and central water hydrants. The family sites are first-come,
first-served. A trailer dumping station is located near the entrance
station.
Williams Branch Picnic Shelter
Between the Lake and the camping area is the Williams Branch Picnic
Shelter, providing group picnickers with protection from the elements.
Additional information and reservations may be obtained by calling
the Glenwood & Pedlar Ranger District Office at (540)
291-2188.
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