Overview
Cave Mountain Lake Group Picnic Shelter is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and welcomes visitors to enjoy the rustic beauty and peacefulness of the area. Easy access from the interstate and close proximity to historic Lexington and Natural Bridge State Park make Cave Mountain Lake an ideal destination.
Recreation
The 7 acre lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area which includes a sand beach. Fishing for youth only (ages 15 and under) is open April 1st through June 15th, then fishing is open to anglers of all ages with a valid Virginia fishing license for the remainder of the season. There are several piers around the lake for better fishing access. A number of opportunities for photography, birding and wildlife viewing are available along the trails and water's edge.
Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from a short walk around the lake to an all-day hike along the nearby ridges. The Panther Knob Trail starts beside the group picnic shelter and skirts the edge of the lake to the dam. Visitors may also enjoy a day hike or backpacking trip on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the James River Face Wilderness or the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.
Facilities
The 7 acre lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area which includes a sand beach. Fishing for youth only (ages 15 and under) is open April 1st through June 15th, then fishing is open to anglers of all ages with a valid Virginia fishing license for the remainder of the season. There are several piers around the lake for better fishing access. A number of opportunities for photography, birding and wildlife viewing are available along the trails and water's edge.
Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from a short walk around the lake to an all-day hike along the nearby ridges. The Panther Knob Trail starts beside the group picnic shelter and skirts the edge of the lake to the dam. Visitors may also enjoy a day hike or backpacking trip on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the James River Face Wilderness or the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.
Natural Features
Cave Mountain Lake covers seven acres and was built in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, using existing natural rock buttresses to form the 35-foot dam. A grassy field extends from the lake's sandy beach to forested hills that paint a scenic backdrop.
contact_info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (540) 291-2188.
Nearby Attractions
Lexington, Virginia, just 20 minutes away, is home to several historic sites including the Stonewall Jackson House, George C. Marshall Museum and the Virignia Military Institute Museum. It's a charming town with horse drawn carriage rides through the streets. Ice and other sundries can be found at small stores along State Route 759. Natural Bridge State Park is a short 8 mile drive and offers visitors views of a 215 foot tall Natural Bridge and limestone gorge, 6 miles of hiking trails, a Monacan Indian village, and the 30 foot cascade of Lace Falls.
Activities
- Swimming Site
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Camping
- Biking
- Day Use Area
- Picnicking
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