In the Allegheny Mountains in western Virginia, Lake Moomaw is a perfect place for nature lovers to get away from busy tourist spots and have a great journey. The 2,530-acre reservoir is backed by the George Washington National Forest, which makes it a beautiful setting for many outdoor activities. These five outdoor activities will help you get the most out of your time at this hidden gem, whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer holiday.
Kayaking Through Crystal Clear Waters
The water in Lake Moomaw is so clear that it is one of the best places in Virginia for paddling adventures. There are many coves and inlets in the lake, so there are lots of places to explore. Some have depths of over 100 feet, while others have calm, shallow water that is great for newbies.
Because of the lack of homes along the shore, you’ll be able to paddle past untouched woods and rocky outcroppings that make you feel like you’re in a different world. White-tailed deer often drink at the water’s edge early in the morning, while ospreys and bald eagles fly overhead looking for fish.
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area or Coles Point are the best places to launch from. These entrance points make it easy to get into the water and have lots of parking. If you’re planning an overnight trip, there are a number of primitive campsites along the shore that can only be reached by boat. These campsites offer a unique backcountry experience.
Kayaking Through Crystal Clear Waters
There are more than 20 miles of hiking trails in the George Washington National Forest around Lake Moomaw. The trails range from easy walks along the lake to difficult mountain climbs. The Bald Mountain Trail is a popular choice because it has a moderate 3-mile loop with great views of the lake and the hills nearby.
For a more relaxed experience, the Greenwood Point Trail is a simple 1.5-mile walk along the water that has many great places for photography or quiet reflection. In the autumn, when the hardwood forests turn bright shades of red, orange and gold, the path is especially beautiful.
Hikers who like to take risks should try the connecting paths that lead to the Allegheny Trail, which goes through the backcountry for miles. You can go deep into old-growth woods on these paths. The only sounds you’ll hear are birds singing and leaves rustling.
Fishing for Trophy Smallmouth Bass
Anglers know that Lake Moomaw is one of the best places in Virginia to catch smallmouth bass. With regular reports of catches over 20 inches, the lake’s rough structure and clean water make it a great place for these tough fish to live.
The lake is home to healthy populations of walleye, crappie, and several kinds of sunfish, as well as smallmouth bass. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources regularly adds fish to the lake, so it’s a great place to fish all year.
The best times to fish are in the spring and autumn, but summer anglers who fish near rocky points and drop-offs early in the morning or late at night always catch fish. You’ll love how quiet Lake Moomaw is, whether you’re casting from the beach, a kayak, or a boat. It’s a fisherman’s dream.
Camping Under Star-Filled Skies
Camping next to Lake Moomaw’s calm waters, where there isn’t much light pollution, is one of the best things you can do. There are both developed campgrounds with all the comforts of home and primitive spots for people who want to be alone.
There are 50 spots in Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. Each one has a fire ring, picnic tables, and modern bathrooms and showers. The campground is on a peninsula that sticks out into the lake, so many spots have views of the water. The Forest Service rents out lake moomaw cabins to people who want to be closer to nature but still want to be more comfortable. These cabins are the right mix of outdoor adventure and comfort.
The scenery at Morris Hill Campground is just as beautiful, but it is more rustic and has fewer conveniences. Both campgrounds are great places to stay while exploring the nearby forest. Each night, you can come back to the peaceful sounds of the waves lapping at the shore.
Wildlife Watching and Photography
A huge variety of animals live in the ecosystems around Lake Moomaw, which makes it a great place for nature shooters and wildlife lovers. Besides the deer and birds of prey that were already noted, people often see black bears, wild turkeys, and even river otters.
Animals are most busy at dawn and dusk, which are the best times to see them. Be patient and bring glasses and a camera with a good zoom lens. There are great places to watch wildlife coming to drink in the quiet coves on the western side of the lake.
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Planning Your Lake Moomaw Adventure
People who go off the beaten path in Virginia will have unforgettable outdoor adventures at Lake Moomaw. This place has something for every nature fan, from paddling in clear waters to hiking on mountain trails to camping under the stars. Plan your trip to Lake Moomaw today and see why people who know about it keep coming back year after year.
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