5. Claytor Lake
The nearly 4,400-acre Claytor Lake was formed by the damming of the New River. One convenient way to enjoy all this reservoir has to offer is to visit Claytor Lake State Park, which is nestled into one of its bends. Located about 50 miles southwest of Roanoke, the state park offers facilities for swimming, fishing and boating. A local outfitter rents pontoon boats, ski boats, fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and even hydro bikes. Catfish, Muskie, walleye and striped bass are the types of fish anglers can catch from this lake. Plus, this is a great place to take a nature walk, as the park features 7 miles of easy trails. Overnight accommodations include campsites, cabins, lodges, yurts and a bunkhouse. The town of Dublin is home to moderately priced hotels, including the Holiday Inn Express Dublin, just 5 miles away.
6. Philpott Lake
Considered by many to be one of the prettiest lakes in Virginia, Philpott Lake is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains about 50 miles south of Roanoke. Like other reservoirs in Virginia, Philpott Lake is used for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a visitor center at the north end of Philpott Dam Road not far from Philpott Marina. The lake is also chock full of opportunities for recreation with 100 miles of shoreline, eight campgrounds, six beach areas and nine boat launches. The Hampton Inn Martinsville is one of a handful of budget and moderately priced hotels in Martinsville, about a 20-mile drive southeast of the visitor center.