Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia’s most popular lake offers a wide variety of outdoor activities for all members of the family. With 500 miles of shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is inevitably famous for all kinds of water activities such as boating, water sports, swimming and fishing. Even with all the excitement on the water, you are guaranteed to find plenty on shore to occupy your time also. Golf, tennis, hiking, horseback riding and skydiving are perfect for the thrill seekers who wish to keep it to the land. There is an activity to meet every lifestyle and personality from sunbathing and amusement arcades to the thrill of wakeboarding or tubing.

                Because of it expansive size, Smith Mountain Lake reaches into the counties of Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania. Not only is Smith Mountain Lake famous for the recreational activities available, but also for the rich history in these counties. In Bedford County, you can visit Poplar Forest, a home that Thomas Jefferson built for himself as a private retreat. Located in Franklin County, you can take a walking tour of the many historic buildings in Rocky Mount or watch demonstrations and reenactments of Booker T. Washington’s life at The Booker T. Washington National Monument.  In Pittsylvania County, visit historic Chatham to see Virginia’s only two street car diners, the 1853 Greek Revival Courthouse or to take a tour of the 1777 town full of Victorian architecture.

                Smith Mountain Lake hosts annual events that attract visitors from all over the country. In the spring, the Smith Mountain Lake Business Expo, The Annual Corporate Cup Golf Tournament, and Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run are the featured events. Summer is kicked off by the Four Seasons of SML Photo Contest and the Smith Mountain Lake firework display. Even in the off-season, tourists frequent Smith Mountain Lake to attend the Wine Festival, The Charity Home Tour and Gala and The Fall Chili Festival.

                At Smith Mountain Lake, there is a restaurant for every craving from fine gourmet dining to fast food. There is also nightly entertainment at several establishments so you can dance the night away with your friends and family or just relax and enjoy a variety of music and entertainment. Whether you are interested in exploring the historic surroundings in Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania Counties, enjoying the lake recreational activities, attending one of the annual activities or participating in the many land activities, there is something for everyone at Smith Mountain Lake.