Claytor Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Claytor Lake State Park in Southwest Virginia covers 472 acres of lush forests, rolling hills, and serene waters. The lake was formed with the construction of Claytor Dam in the 1930s, and today offers many recreational facilities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, a swimming beach, boat ramps, and camping facilities. Nearby attractions include Radford City for cultural and recreational activities and the New River Valley Vineyard for wine tasting.
Nearby Cities:
Radford, VA
Blacksburg, VA
Pulaski, VA
Christiansburg, VA
Spring 40-65 F
Summer 74-83 F
Fall 55-71 F
Winter 33-40 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Claytor Lake State Park
Campground Accommodations
Claytor Lake State Park Campground
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV length: 35 ft
Other Amenities: Bathhouse, swimming area with diving platform, snack bar, and covered picnic areas
Cedar Cove Campground
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV length: 38 ft
Other Amenities: Picnic tables, dump Station, campfire, playground, and boat launch
Fort Chiswell RV Park
Fort Chiswell RV Park is located a convenient distance from Claytor Lake State Park. The large pull-through sites here offer 50-amp electrical service, sewer, and water. Guests can look forward to a peaceful ambiance, and the on-site picnic area is a perfect place to appreciate it. Some other amenities you can enjoy at the RV park include a swimming pool, playground, and rec room. Nearby, you can find opportunities for river rafting, miniature golf, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding. The address of Fort Chiswell RV Park is 312 Fort Chiswell Rd, Max Meadows, VA 24360.
Deer Trail Park & Campground
Deer Trail Park & Campground is a relaxing RV park located away from the highway and industrial bustle. It offers a beautiful valley setting amidst the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. A few popular amenities at the campground include a heated swimming pool, a game room with pool tables, and a playground for kids. You can also access several hiking trails and participate in bird-watching. The camp store offers food, drinks, and supplies such as fishing worms and firewood. The address of Deer Trail Park & Campground is 599 Gullion Fork Rd, Wytheville, VA 24382.
What to Do at
Claytor Lake State Park
You will love Claytor Lake State Park's abundant recreational opportunities and natural beauty. For starters, you can explore the pristine waters of Claytor Lake through boating, swimming, and fishing. You can also discover a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through lush woodlands, perfect for nature lovers and hikers of all skill levels. With opportunities for picnicking, wildlife observation, and a sandy beach, Claytor Lake State Park offers diverse experiences that make it an ideal destination for a memorable outdoor getaway.
Claytor Lake is the park's focal point and offers many water-based activities. Boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking are all popular pastimes here. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the park's diverse wildlife.
Inside Claytor Lake State Park
The tall trees and grassy stretches of land at the state park offer a perfect setting for hiking and picnicking. Claytor Lake is one of the most popular attractions, and it is ideal for activities such as fishing and swimming. For a more laid-back activity, you can visit the freshwater swimming beach to relax in the sun and take in the beautiful scenery. Constructed between 1876 and 1879, the Haven B. Howe House is a historical building that is now open to the public as a Nature Exhibit Center. There is also a visitor center on the premises that offers park maps, souvenirs, and general information about the area.
Fishing
Claytor Lake is a fishing hotspot with clear waters and abundant fish populations. Anglers can catch bass, catfish, and trout. However, remember to bring your fishing gear and fishing license.
Geocaching
Claytor Lake State Park is home to several geocaches hidden throughout its scenic landscape. These caches can be found along hiking trails or near landmarks.
Nature Watching
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the park's rich biodiversity. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture sightings of birds, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Stargazing
Claytor Lake State Park's clear night skies make it an excellent location for stargazing. Bring a telescope to one of the picnic areas or lie back at the beach and marvel at the constellations and celestial wonders of the sky.
Flora and Fauna
The park's meadows and forested areas are adorned with wildflowers throughout the spring and summer. Some of the unique wildflowers include trillium, violets, and black-eyed Susans.
Hiking
Explore the park's diverse terrain on a network of hiking trails. Whether looking for a stroll or a challenging hike, you'll encounter scenic vistas, lush forests, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Boating
The vast Claytor Lake is perfect for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and jet-skiing. Launch your watercraft from the park's ramps. You can rent a boat on-site for an exhilarating day on the water.
Swimming
The park features a sandy swimming beach with lifeguards during summer. It's a fantastic spot to cool off, relax, and enjoy the lake's refreshing waters.
Biking
Biking offers the opportunity to enjoy the park's natural beauty, including the lake, forests, and wildlife. For a more leisurely ride, the park's roads are popular to get some exercise.
How to Get to
Claytor Lake State Park
To get to Claytor Lake State Park from Radford, VA, start by heading southwest on E Main St toward Tyler Ave. Afterward, turn left onto Tyler Ave and continue on VA-177 N/Peppers Ferry Rd NE. After approximately 7 miles, turn right onto State Park Rd, and you will see road signs directing you to Claytor Lake State Park. Follow State Park Rd for a few miles to get to the park's entrance.
Entering Claytor Lake State Park
Parking at Claytor Lake State Park is readily available and convenient for visitors. The park provides designated parking areas for various facilities and activities. Some suitable spots to find a parking space include the visitor center, boat ramps, picnic areas, and hiking trailheads. Visitors who arrive by vehicle pay a $7 daily parking fee per vehicle. This fee allows you to access the park's amenities for the entire day. Disabled veterans who are residents of Virginia may be eligible for free or discounted annual passes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Claytor Lake State Park
If you enjoy warm weather and water activities, summer may be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer cooler temperatures and the beauty of fall foliage, autumn is a fantastic choice. Ultimately, Claytor Lake State Park offers something unique every season, so your visit can be enjoyable year-round.
Claytor Lake State Park is known for its population of bald eagles. These majestic birds of prey can often be spotted soaring above the Claytor Lake. Ospreys, with their distinctive white heads and dark bodies, are also common around the park. They are frequently seen diving into the lake to catch fish. Wetland areas around the lake also have various frog and toad species, including bullfrogs and American toads.
Claytor Lake State Park has a designated RV campground with facilities that accommodate campers and trailers of various sizes, making it a convenient option for those looking to stay overnight in their recreational vehicles. Campers can typically stay at Claytor Lake State Park for up to 14 consecutive days. Longer-term stays may be possible with prior approval from park management.
Reservations for camping at Claytor Lake State Park are recommended, especially during the peak season. While it is advisable to make reservations to secure your camping spot, the park also allows walk-in camping since unreserved camping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping fees vary depending on the type of camping and amenities you require.
Yes, pets are welcome at Claytor Lake State Park. They are not allowed at the beach or in the buildings. You should keep your pet on a leash and are expected to clean up after your furry family members.