Located in Wise County, Virginia is North Fork of Pound River Lake, which also goes by North Fork Pound Reservoir. This lake has an average depth of 19 feet and a maximum depth of just 55 feet. There are over 13 ½ miles of shoreline where you and your loved ones can enjoy plenty of time outdoors.
There is a 122-foot high dam nearby that was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1963. At the time, the dam cost over $6 million to construct but saved the area far more in flood damage prevention and energy costs over the past several decades.
North Fork of Pound River Lake is adjacent to Jefferson National Forest. If you enjoy nature, you'll love the entire area. You can go fishing, hiking along several trails, camp in a tent or RV, view a ton of different kinds of wildlife, and more. Out of all the spots to visit in Southwest Virginia, North Fork of Pound River Lake is a great choice for just about anyone.
There are several ways to get to North Fork of Pound River Lake. If you need to reach the boat Landing, follow route 630. To get to the visitor center you take Route 63 to US Route 23. The roads around the area are well-maintained and paved.
They are easy for all types of vehicles to drive on, including RVs and camper vans. Since Virginia has a fairly moderate climate year-round, you won't have to worry about snowy roadways during the winter months.
Cane Patch Campground has a total of 35 campsites. Seven of those campsites have electrical hookups. Visitors can get a campsite of their own on a first-come, first-served basis. There are convenient flush toilets and hot showers available for your personal use. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.
There is also an RV sewage dump station that you can use. Lush forests surround the area, and the prices are very reasonable. Cane Patch Campground is just a short walk away from Phillip's Creek, which is a great spot to swim! There is a volleyball court, as well as a basketball court for campers to use.
Since you're surrounded by dense nature, Cane Patch is a great option to get away from the stressful city life you may have. The campsites are spaced out enough that you won't be bothered by your neighbor, which is always a plus. Lastly, the area is best known for the hiking trails surrounding the campground. This can be an excellent activity for the whole family to take advantage of.
If you want to cool off during the hot Virginia summer or you just want to get out on the water, there are a variety of great water activities at your disposal. You are permitted to swim at your own risk, but it is important to mention that there are no active lifeguards on duty.
In addition to swimming, you can also go kayaking, tubing, canoeing, paddleboarding and more. There aren't areas nearby to rent equipment, so make sure to have room in the RV for your own!
If you get hungry during your visit to North Fork of Pound River Lake, consider picnicking at one of the many equipped picnic areas around the lake. There are picnic tables, shelters, grills, and more available to the public.
This is a great way to relax while the beautiful scenery of Virginia surrounds you. This area enforces the "leave no trace" policy, so it is important to clean up after yourself to help keep the area properly maintained.
At North Fork of Pound River Lake, you'll be able to catch plenty of different types of fish. Some of the more popular to catch our largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. You can also find bluegills, flathead catfish, carp, and crappies.
Consider yourself lucky if you catch a walleye or muskie in the area. It is important to note that a statewide freshwater fishing license is required year-round. You are only allowed to use artificial lures with a single hook while fishing here.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you may be able to see some amazing animals in their natural habitat. Some of the wildlife you can view around the area may include animals such as deer, groundhogs, bobcats, black bears, bats, and more.
There are also plenty of birds and owls to view, as well. When you're planning your visit to North Fork of Pound River Lake, you may want to consider packing not only your binoculars to better see critters, but also some bear spray for your own safety.
One of the very best things about this area is the breathtaking views. If you're lucky enough to visit during autumn, you will see trees of just about every color. This makes it a tremendous photographing opportunity.
Whether you're looking to get a beautiful photo of the lake itself or your fun campsite, there are also a variety of areas nearby that make great backgrounds for photos of you and your friends. Photographing your trip is the ideal way to bring a bit of the experience with you after you return home.
North Fork of Pound River Lake has plenty of areas nearby to take a hike. One of the more popular trails to hit is the Laurel Fork trail just east of North Fork of Pound River Lake. Nearby you can hike all around Jefferson National Forest as well. Hiking is also a popular activity to take part in at the surrounding campgrounds as well.
Depending on where you go, there are both paved and gravel trails available, with the majority being gravel. No matter if you're looking for a leisurely stroll in the woods or a challenging hike, there is a trail for you. For your comfort, pack a high-quality pair of hiking boots to make the trip a little easier on yourself.
