Claytor Lake State Park

General Information

Ideal for swimming, camping, hiking and picnicking, Claytor Lake is known for sport fishing and boating. The park has a full-service marina with docking slips, supplies, fuel, boat rentals and refreshments.

The Water's Edge Meeting Facility is perfect for weddings, receptions and reunions, and wedding packages are available.

Three lodges and 15 cabins overlook the 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat.

The historic Howe House has interactive exhibits describing the ecology of the lake and the surrounding areas.

Guests can also rent bikes and enjoy a universally accessible fishing pier, picnic shelters, a seasonal snack bar and playgrounds. There are also two gift shops.

Virtual tour of park amenities
Claytor Lake Underwater Webcam feed

Hours

6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Location

From I-81, take Exit 101 (Claytor Lake) to State Park Road (State Route 660). State Park Road ends at the park's entrance.

Its address is 6620 Ben H. Bolen Drive, Dublin, VA 24084; Latitude, 37.057372. Longitude, -80.627394.

Drive Time: Northern Virginia, 5 hours; Richmond, 4 hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, 5 hours; Roanoke, 1 hour

Park Size

472 acres. Lake size, 4,500 acres; 21 miles long. The park has approximately four miles of lake frontage.

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Cabins, camping

OVERNIGHT FACILITIES

Cabins, lodges, yurts, camping lodge (bunkhouse) and camping. For information on the availability of overnight accommodations, particular park amenities or to make a reservation, you can reserve online or call 800-933-PARK (7275). See park fees. See details on reservation cancellation and transfer policies for cabins and lodges. See below for such information regarding campsites. A fee is charged per pet per night for cabin stays. Also, camping is not allowed in the cabin and lodge area and there are no bed rentals.

During prime season, a day of guarded beach swimming per night's stay is free to overnight guests. (Parks will not refund rental fees should guarded swimming be unavailable.) Read more about swimming in the park's Recreation section.

Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Only overnight guests are allowed in the park after 10 p.m. Visitors are charged the daily parking and swimming fees; visitors must park in the area designated by the park.

Open fires are prohibited from Feb. 15 through April 30 from midnight to 4 p.m. View details here.

View 360° virtual tours of accommodations at the park:

• Lodges
• 2 BR Cabins
• 3 BR Cabins
• Bunkhouse
• Yurt

 Visit a Flickr photoset of typical cabins and lodges at the park. Cabins and lodges vary; any given dwelling may not match what's shown in the photos.

Note: Because mooring space is limited, boats that can't be tied to the dock must be removed from the water. No more than two boats per lodge are allowed to be moored at the dock from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Cabins | Lodges | Yurts | Bunkhouse | Camping

Cabins

Cabins 1-12: Two-bedroom, one bathroom, water view; cabins 1, 6 and 7 are universally accessible. 

Maximum occupancy: six

Minimum stay

• Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day
  • Six-night minimum stay
    • Cabins 1-6 starting on Saturday
    • Cabins 7-12 starting on Sunday
• Minimum stay reduced depending on availability
  • Six-night minimum stay reduced depending on availability to:
    • Four-night minimum 90 days prior to arrival
    • Two-night minimum 30 days prior to arrival
• A two-night minimum stay is required for the rest of the year

Check-In/Out

• Cabin check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is 10 a.m.

Cabin Furnishing and Amenities

• Cabins have rustic furniture and are climate-controlled (heat and air conditioning). You may want to bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. The cabins have no dishwasher, phone, TV, washer or dryer.
• Cell phone service is available in most of the park.
• Kitchen: refrigerator, stove, drip coffeemaker, dishes, dishcloth, dishwashing liquid, dish towel, silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans, oven mitt, potholder, microwave oven and toaster.
• Living area: sofa, chair and dining table.
• Bedrooms: nightstands, dressers.
  • One bedroom has a queen-size bed.
  • The second bedroom has two bunk beds.
  • Twin mattresses are slightly oversized. We recommend twin xl-sized linen.
  • Pillows are provided.
• No linens are provided. Guests must bring sheets, pillowcases, blankets, towels, bath mats, kitchen towels and cloths.
• Cabins have a fireplace. The park provides one bundle of complimentary firewood. Extra firewood is available for a nominal fee. Please do not bring your own as it may have insects that could harm the park's trees.
• Fire-pit
• Screened-in porch with rocking chairs.
• Patio.
• Picnic table and a charcoal pedestal grill in the yard beside the cabin. Guests must supply the charcoal.
• Late arrivals: During mid and off-season, those arriving after 4 p.m. will find cabin access information in the "late arrival box" by the cabin door.
• Two vehicles per cabin. All others are charged the parking fee.
• Cabin guests use the boat launch for free. There are three small boat docks located in the cabin area (between cabins 1 and 2, behind cabin 4 and behind cabin 10) for cabin guests to use free of charge. They are first-come, first-served. Overnight boat slips are available at the park marina for a fee.
• No smoking.
• Recycle bins for aluminum and plastic bottles are at the entrance to the cabin area and other areas of the park.

Cabins 13, 17 and 18: Three-bedroom, two-bathroom, wood-framed cabin with a water view; cabin 13 is universally accessible with ADA-compliant fishing access.

Maximum occupancy: eight

Minimum stay

• Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day
  • Six-night minimum stay
    • Cabins 13 and 18 starting on Friday
    • Cabins 17 starting on Saturday
• Minimum stay reduced depending on availability
  • Six-night minimum stay reduced depending on availability to:
    • Four-night minimum 90 days prior to arrival
    • Two-night minimum 30 days prior to arrival
• A two-night minimum stay is required for the rest of the year

Check-In/Out

• Cabin check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is 10 a.m.

Cabin Furnishing and Amenities

• In cabin 13, the kitchen, dining area, living room, one bedroom and one bathroom are universally accessible.
• Cabins have rustic furniture and have heat and air conditioning. Bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. The cabins have no phone, TV, washer or dryer.
• Cell phone service is available in most of the park.
• Kitchen: refrigerator, stove, drip coffeemaker, dishes, dishwashing liquid, silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans, microwave oven, toaster and dishwasher.
• Living area: sofa, chairs and dining table.
• Bedrooms: nightstand. Dressers in Cabins 17 and 18.
  • One bedroom has a queen-size bed.
  • One bedroom has two twin-size beds.
  • One bedroom has two sets of bunk beds (this room sleeps 4 people).
  • Pillows are provided.
• No linens are provided. Guests must bring sheets, pillowcases, blankets, towels, bath mats, kitchen towels and cloths
• Twin mattresses are slightly oversized. We recommend twin xl-sized linen.
• Cabins 17 and 18 have a gas fireplace. Cabin 13 has a wood-burning fireplace for which the park provides a bundle of complimentary firewood. Extra firewood is available for a nominal fee. Please do not bring your own as it may have insects that could harm the park's trees.
• No smoking.
• Wrap-around deck; open porch with rocking chairs.
• Cabin 13 has a fire-pit, a charcoal pedestal grill and an ADA-compliant picnic table. Cabins 17 and 18 have a fire-pit, grill and a standard picnic table. Guests must provide the charcoal. 
• Late arrivals: During mid and off-season, those arriving after 4 p.m. will find cabin access information in the "late arrival box" by the cabin door.
• Three vehicles per cabin. Cabin 13 has six parking spots and one for a boat trailer. Cabins 17 and 18 have three spots each (or two car spots and one trailer spot per cabin). Parking fees apply to additional vehicles. Additional parking is very limited and may be unavailable near the cabin. Overflow parking is available in the cabin area.
• Cabin guests use the boat launch for free.
• Free first-served boat docks are nearby. The closest to cabin 13 is across from cabin 15. The closest to cabins 17 and 18 are below cabins 4 and 10. Overnight slips at the marina may be rented as well.
• Recycling bins for aluminum and plastic bottles are in the cabin and lodge area and throughout the park.

Lodges

Lodges 14, 15 and 16: six-bedroom, three-bathroom, water view; universally accessible. 

Maximum occupancy: 16

Minimum stay (depending on demand)

• Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day
  • Six-night minimum stay
    • Lodges 14 and 15 starting on Friday
    • Lodge 16 starting on Sunday
• Minimum stay reduced depending on availability
  • Six-night minimum stay reduced depending on availability to:
    • Four-night minimum 90 days prior to arrival
    • Two-night minimum 30 days prior to arrival
• A two-night minimum stay is required for the rest of the year

Check-In/Out

• Lodge check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is 10 a.m.

Lodge Furnishing and Amenities

• Universally accessible: kitchen, dining area, living room, one bedroom and one bath.
• Lodges have rustic furniture and have heat and air conditioning. Bring food, coffee filters, coffee, salt and pepper, nonstick cooking spray, board games or cards, bath towels, washcloths and dish towels. The lodges have a washer and dryer but no phone or TV.
• Cell phone service is available in most of the park.
• Kitchen: refrigerator, stove, drip coffeemaker, dishes, dishwashing liquid, silverware, cooking utensils, pots, pans,  microwave oven, toaster and dishwasher.
• Living area: sofa, chairs and dining table. There is a fireplace with gas logs.
• No smoking.
• Bedrooms: nightstand. No extra bed rentals. One bedroom and one bathroom are universally accessible.
  • Two bedrooms have queen-sized beds.
  • Two bedrooms have two twin-sized beds.
  • Two bedrooms have two sets of bunk beds (each room sleeps four people).
  • Pillows are provided.
• No linens are provided. Guests must bring sheets, pillowcases, blankets, towels, bath mats, kitchen towels and cloths.
• Twin mattresses are slightly oversized. We recommend twin xl-sized linen.
• One open porch on the front and a second open porch on the back of the lodge with rocking chairs.
• Fire-pit, picnic table and charcoal grill provided. Guests must provide the charcoal.
• Late arrivals: During mid and off-season, those arriving after 4 p.m. will find cabin access information in the "late arrival box" by the cabin door.
• Camping is not allowed in the cabin and lodge area.
• Maximum six cars and one additional boat trailer parking space per lodge. Parking fees apply to additional vehicles. Additional parking is very limited and may be unavailable near the lodge.
• There is a first-come, first-served boat dock nearby, across from cabin 15. There's no cost for cabin guests. Overnight slips are available at the marina for a fee.
• Recycle bins for aluminum and plastic bottles are across from cabin 13 and in other areas of the park.

Yurts

Recreational yurts are a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter. Functionally speaking, they’re a cross between a tent and a cabin. Claytor Lake has four yurts, which are located in Campground Birch. 

Reservations are required. The rental season is April 1- Oct. 31. Cabin rental and cancellation policies apply.

Camping is not allowed in the yurt area, only on designated campsites

Maximum occupancy: four, sleeps three.

Minimum stay

• Friday and Saturday nights
  • Two-night minimum
•  One-night minimum other days

Check-In/Out

• Yurt check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is 10 a.m.

Yurt Furnishing and Amenities

• One queen-sized bed and a twin-sized trundle pull-out. Guests must bring sleeping bags or linens for the beds. Pillows are provided.
• No smoking, cooking or pets, except service animals, are allowed in the yurt. 
• The yurt has no bathroom, water, electricity, heat or air conditioning. Guests may use the nearby campground bathhouse. A common-use water spigot is also at the campground bathhouse.
• Each yurt has a large wooden deck with a picnic table and rocking chairs.
• Each also has a pedestal charcoal grill, a fire-ring with a cooking grate and a second picnic table.
• A food storage locker is available outside of the yurt. The storage locker size is 48” wide x 32” high x 26” deep (23 cubic feet).
• Each yurt has a couch, sitting chair, coffee table, dining table with three chairs, a queen-sized bed, a twin-sized trundle pull-out and two nightstands.
• Yurt 1 is universally accessible. An accessible bathhouse is in Campground D. There's also an accessible bathhouse in Campground A from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Parking for two vehicles is allowed for each yurt. Those with additional vehicles must pay the daily parking fee and park in the overflow lot near the campground entrance.
• A shared wagon is available adjacent to the yurt parking lot for guests to transport items. Instructions provided at check-in.

Bunkhouse

The park has one camping lodge (bunkhouse) for rent. It is in Campground Alder. The camping lodge has a covered front porch and a small deck behind it. 

Reservations are required. The rental season is only during camping season for Campground Alder (the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day). The transfer deadline and cancellation and pet fees are the same as those for cabins.

Maximum occupancy: 14

Minimum stay

• Two-night minimum stay; no weekly requirement

Check-In/Out

• Bunkhouse check-in is 4 p.m., check-out is 10 a.m.

Bunkhouse Furnishing and Amenities

• The camping lodge is a two-room, climate-controlled trailer. There are seven sets of bunk beds as well as a refrigerator, microwave and coffee pot.
• Linens are not provided. Guests must bring their own linens and pillows.
• Guests are responsible for any damage.
• No bathroom, kitchen or fireplace.
• No cooking or smoking is permitted in the camping lodge.
• Firewood is available for a small fee. Please do not bring your own as it may have insects that could harm the park's trees.
• Five vehicles are permitted with the rental of the camping lodge. All others are charged the standard parking fee. Parking is available at the camping lodge for four vehicles only; the fifth vehicle must park in the campground overflow parking lot.
• Electrical outlets are available but limited to 50-amp service.
• Outside are two picnic tables, a fire-pit and a charcoal grill.

Total sites of each type: 2-bedroom cinderblock waterview, 12. 3-bedroom wood-frame waterview, 1. 6-bedroom wood-frame lodge, 3. 

Site types:

2-bedroom cinderblock waterview – two bedrooms, one bathroom, typically sleeps up to four (one full-size bed, two twin-size beds). Maximum occupancy is six.

3-bedroom wood-frame waterview – three bedrooms, two bathrooms, sleeps up to eight, one queen bed, two twin beds in the second bedroom, two sets of bunk beds (room sleeps four) in the third bedroom.

6-bedroom wood-frame lodge – six bedrooms, three bathrooms, sleeps up to 16, universally accessible, two queen-size beds in two bedrooms, two single beds in two bedrooms, two sets of bunk beds each in two bedrooms (sleeps four in each room).

Yurts (four)

Camping lodge (one) - bunkhouse

Camping

Visit this page for details on reservation cancellation and transfer policies. Some campsites may be specifically reserved and others are first-come, first-served.

Table with site characteristics
Campground Map

All sites are site-specific and clicking on the site number brings up photos of each site. The campground is open from the first Friday in March until the first Monday in December. Check-in is 4 p.m. and check-out is 1 p.m. While sites cannot be guaranteed before 4 p.m., they are often available, so campers are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy the park if the site isn't available.

• Vehicles: At campsites, two vehicles per site in addition to the camping unit. All others are charged the standard parking fee. Camping guests may use the boat launch for up to two boats at no additional charge.
• Two camping units are allowed per campsite; only one axled camper is allowed per site.
• Campsites have recently been renovated for guest comfort and park resource protection. All equipment and vehicles must be kept within the site bordered by 6 x 6-inch timbers. Additional vehicles must be parked in the lot adjacent to the campground contact station or in the Campground Dogwood parking lot.
• Visitors to overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and are charged the normal parking fee.
• Each campsite has a picnic table, lantern hanger, and a fire ring with a metal grill. All rest on the ground and can be used for campfires.
• Firewood is available for a small fee. Please do not bring your own as it may have insects that could harm the park's trees.
• Generators are not permitted in the campground.
• Electric-water sites accept 20 and 30 amp currents.
• Campground Dogwood: Accommodates large RV units up to 40 feet. Water and electric hookups.  There are no sewer hook-ups, but there is a dump station. The area is sparsely wooded and mostly flat. Most large RV sites are pull-through. The restroom is universally accessible. Sites D-27 and D-35 are near the bathhouse and are universally accessible.
• Campgrounds Alder, Birch and Cedar: Will accommodate a mix of equipment; however, mostly tents and small trailers up to 20 feet long. No hookups for electric and water. Campgrounds are mostly wooded. The terrain varies from level to hilly.

Total sites of each type: STD, 64; E/W, 39

Site type:

• STD - Various equipment up to 20 feet; campgrounds Alder, Birch, & Cedar. No hookups.
• E/W - Various equipment up to 40 feet; campground Dogwood electric and water hookups.

Total campsites: 103

Group campsite - Standard tent site; no hookups, tents only. Maximum of 35 people, 10 tents and 10 vehicles. Gravel picnic pad, two pedestal grills, a campfire fire ring with a metal grill, six picnic tables, and two lantern hangers. Group site area is 125 feet by 60 feet.

• No water or electricity.
• No tent pads. Camping surface is grass.
• Rented only to groups.
• In Campground Dogwood, which has a bathhouse with running water and hot showers.
• Generators are not permitted.
• Parking is available in front of the campsite or at the Campground Dogwood overflow parking lot.

Recreation

TRAILS

The park has six trails - a total of 7 miles of easy-rating hike or bike trails - open year-round. The plant life is predominantly representative of a mature oak-hickory-poplar forest. Extensive reforestation is ongoing. White-tailed deer, various birds, raccoons, squirrels and other species are common.

Within the trail system lies a 5K cross-country trail designed by Boy Scout troop 244. The trail starts on Lakeview Trail in front of the Water's Edge Meeting Facility and ends in front of the lodges. It's great for seasoned and novice runners. Those interested in hosting a 5K at the park should contact the park office.

The park's Shady Ridge Trail, a .66-mile self-guided interpretive loop trail, is part of TRACK Trail Adventures, a program that uses brochures to help kids explore nature. A different story unfolds with each page of the brochure.

SWIMMING

Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. The swimming area has a snack bar and gift shop. Operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Weather and other issues may sometimes force the suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach's designated area. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advised. Click here for park fees. From the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. A possible shortage of lifeguards before mid-June and after mid-August may result in unguarded swimming. Call the park for details. Pets are not allowed on the beach at the swimming area.

FISHING, BOATING

Motorboats permitted. Except for the beach and cabin area, fishing is permitted from the shoreline throughout the park. Bass, catfish, muskie, walleye and striped bass are among the popular sport fish found in the lake. A valid Virginia freshwater fishing license is required. Licenses may be purchased at the Water's Edge gift shop when it's open or at the park office during the off-season.

The park and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources recently installed various fish attractors to improve fishing for both shoreline and boating anglers. Click here for a map showing locations. Download the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources biologist's report.

The park offers boat slip rental, a launch ramp (no charge to overnight guests), gasoline sales, fishing supplies and licenses, and a gift shop. Long-term boat slips are available at the Marina from March through October by calling the park at 540-643-2500. Two overnight dock rentals are available at A Dock, the dock to the launch ramp's right. You can reserve these online or by calling 800-933-PARK (7275). Boats longer than 24 feet cannot be accommodated. Check-in is 4 p.m., and check-out is at 3 p.m.  Rental of the boat slip includes a park/launch pass for 1 vehicle. There's a 14-night maximum stay limit. Camping cancellation/early departure policies apply to overnight dock rentals. 

Also located within the park is the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) launch ramp. This ramp is located at 4555 Bear Dr., Dublin, VA 24084. Since this is not state park property, we do not collect a daily parking/launch fee. 

Claytor Lake Water Sports at the marina offers various pontoons, motorboats, canoes and kayaks and can handle all your boat rental needs. Call 540-731-8683 or visit its website for details or to make reservations.

Also, at the marina, Mountain 2 Island Paddleboard Company offers paddleboard rental, gear and lessons. It also will deliver motorboats to guests' docks. Call 540-980-1488 or visit its website for details and reservations.

Claytor Lake sometimes is lowered each year in November for maintenance. It takes about two weeks. Launching from the boat launch may be impossible during this time, and fishing from the shoreline is difficult. Those with larger boats should use the public boat launch on Bear Drive. Please contact the Park Office for additional details or visit http://claytorhydro.com/.

Annual parking-launching passports are available by calling 1-800-933-PARK.

Attention: Clean plant debris, insects and mollusks (snails) from your boat and accessories before arriving at the park. Invasive species harm the lake's native species. Your vigilance ensures a quality fishing and recreational experience for you and future park guests.

HORSES

None at this park, but horse rental is available at New River Trail State Park, about 30 minutes away.

Park Trail Guide

Click here for the park's trail guide.

Download (external link for use with Avenza App) the geo-referenced map

Download the geo-referenced map for this park

Nearby Attractions

• Cascades waterfall
• Claytor Lake Water Sports
• Dixie Caverns
• Draper Mercantile
• Floyd Country Store
• Gatewood Park
• Glencoe Museum
• Pulaski County Motorsports Park
• Mountain 2 Island Paddleboard Company
• tubing at New River Junction
• New River Trail State Park
• Pulaski River Turtles baseball
• Randolph Park
• Smithfield Plantation
• Sparky Run Dog Park
•  Wilderness Road Regional Museum
• Wytheville Community Center.

Also, visit Pulaski County Tourism for more to do.

Picnic Shelters

Picnic areas include grills, drinking water and restroom facilities. Several restrooms and shelters are universally accessible. Seven picnic shelters are available for rent through the Customer Service Center by calling 1-800-933-7275. Shelter capacity varies from 30 to 100 people.

Large and small shelters are available. Shelters can be rented from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (all day). Parking and swimming fees are not included in the shelter rental fee. The park also offers for rent a gazebo, which is popular for weddings. Click here for park fees.

Open fires are prohibited from Feb. 15 through April 30 from midnight until 4 p.m. View details here.

Cancellation policy: No refund within 14 days before the reserved date. Before then, there's a cancellation fee.

• Shelter #1 (large): Shelter can accommodate 100 people. Universally accessible. The shelter has twelve 12-foot picnic tables. A restroom is about 140 feet from the shelter. Overlooking the lake, it is in a shaded area, about 120 feet from a large parking lot and 140 feet from the lake. There is a universally accessible sidewalk and ramp from the parking lot to the shelter. Features electrical outlet, water spigot, two horseshoe pits (guests must bring their own horseshoes), two fireplace grills and a small area near the shelter for outdoor activities. No lights.
• Shelter #2 (small): This shelter offers the best view of the lake, which is about 65 feet away. This shelter can accommodate up to 40 people. The shelter has four 12-foot picnic tables. A restroom is about 470 feet from the shelter, and a large parking area is about 125 feet away. There's no sidewalk access to the shelter. It is not shaded and is by a large, level area well-suited for outdoor activities. Features electric outlet, water spigot,  one fireplace grill on the end of the shelter and two pedestal grills. No lights.
• Shelter #3 (small): About 30 feet from the water, this shelter can accommodate up to 40 people. The shelter has seven 12-foot picnic tables. A restroom is about 140 feet from the shelter, and a small parking area is about 260 feet away, with steep terrain between them. Has a nice view of the cove and is semi-shaded. No flat area in the immediate vicinity for outdoor activities. Features electrical outlet, water spigot, horseshoe pit (guests must bring their own horseshoes) and two pedestal grills on one side of the shelter. No lights.
• Shelter #4 (small): About 350 feet from the lake, this shelter can accommodate up to 40. Universally accessible. The shelter has eight 8-foot picnic tables. A restroom is about 220 feet from the shelter and a large parking area is about 140 feet away. Has level sidewalk from the parking area to shelter. Does not have a view of the lake but is shaded. No flat area in the immediate vicinity for outdoor activities. Features electrical outlets, water spigot, horseshoe pit (guests must bring their own horseshoes) and two pedestal grills (one on end and one on side of shelter). No lights.
• Shelter #5 (large): Shelter can accommodate 80-100 people under the shelter. The restroom is about 230 feet from the shelter. The shelter has fifteen 8-foot picnic tables. Favorite of guests with children because of its close proximity to our playground equipment (144 feet). A parking area is only 25 feet from the shelter, and the lake is about 320 feet away. No sidewalk from the parking area to shelter. Has a partial view of the lake and is not shaded. Has large level area for outdoor activities. Features electrical outlets, water spigot, horseshoe pit (guests must bring their own horseshoes). There are two pedestal grills. No lights.
• Shelter #6 (small): Available only from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The shelter accommodates up to 30. The shelter has four 4-foot, square picnic tables. It's attached to the beach bathhouse; the shelter has no electricity or water. Guests may use the bathhouse restroom. The fire-grill is a few feet from the shelter.
• Shelter #7 (small): Available only from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The shelter accommodates up to 30. 
  The shelter has four 4-foot, square picnic tables and one that's 8 feet long. It's attached to the beach bathhouse; the shelter has no electricity or water. Guests may use the bathhouse restroom. The fire-grill is a few feet from the shelter.

Meeting Space and Facilities

MEETING FACILITIES

Claytor Lake’s Water’s Edge Marina Meeting Facility. To reserve, call 1-800-933-7275. This is a day-use facility. It's perfect for weddings; learn about its special wedding package options, which include rental of the gazebo.

See a collection of photos of the facility.

See a virtual 360º view of the meeting room.

• Full day (8 a.m.-10 p.m.)
• Discounted weekday (Monday through Thursday) rates are available.
• Two-day Weekend Package: Two consecutive weekend days' rental, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Linens are not included in the rental package; only chairs and tables are provided.
• The facility also has a spacious deck that is included. The deck enables more opportunities for weddings, family reunions and other gatherings. The deck is not available apart from the meeting facility; it is not rented on its own. With an approved ABC license, alcoholic beverages may be consumed in the meeting room or on the deck within reserved areas. Access to the deck is restricted from only the meeting room exits during the rental. Signs and roped barriers are placed along the deck to restrict public access. Please call the park, (540) 643-2500, or email claytorlake@dcr.virginia.gov for more detail.

Facilities and Rules

• Kitchen: Refrigerator, freezer, coffee pot, two 6-foot stainless steel tables and microwave-convection oven. No cookware, utensils, serving containers, flatware, dishes or paper products.
• Tables and chairs available (no charge). Guests should call the park to manage seating at least two weeks before the event.
  • Auditorium style seating for 125 people
  • Classroom style seating for 90 people
  • Banquet style seating for 72 people (round banquet tables)
• Podium, tables and chairs are included at no extra charge. No linens provided. There are 30 six-foot by 18-inch rectangular tables, four six-foot by 30-inch rectangular tables, 15 five-foot round tables, and 150 blue upholstered chairs.
• A rental Terms of Agreement form must be read and signed before the date of the event.
• A special-use permit is required for all weddings at the park. There is a nominal fee for a special use permit. The permit fee is included in the wedding package; however, the application is still required.
• The serving of alcoholic beverages requires an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) banquet license, which the customer must get through the local ABC office. Customers are responsible for obtaining the license if they plan on serving any alcoholic beverages. Information and forms for this license can be obtained from the local ABC office. The process may take as long as a month so allow enough time for the licensing process. ABC permits must be presented to park staff prior to the event. All consumption of alcoholic beverages during an officially licensed banquet must occur within the meeting room or on the deck within the reserved area.
• Decorations are permitted but cannot be attached to painted surfaces, cannot damage the facility in any way and must be removed when the event ends. Renters will be responsible for damages and any excess cleaning of the facility required after the event.
• Paint, glue and glitter cannot be used here. Any such use will result in an additional clean-up fee. Open flames, such as candles, also are not permitted. Chafing fuel cans are allowed provided they do not rest directly on the tables.
• Meeting facility renters are exempt from parking fees if they identify themselves at the park contact station.
• Equipment rentals:
  • Multi-media projector
  • Projection screen
  • Easel
  • Flip chart

• Wedding brochure
• Prices
• Caterers, suppliers
• Floor plan
• Special-use permit application

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made 61 days or more in advance of the reservation start date will be charged a 50% non-refundable cancellation fee. Cancellations made 60 days or less before the reservation start date are not eligible for a refund.

Claytor Lake State Park Gazebo

Popular for weddings, it can be rented all day from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. To reserve, call 1-800-933-7275.  Learn more about the park's wedding package options. This is not a picnic shelter. Parking and swimming fees are not included in the gazebo rental fee. See the park fees.

The closest picnic shelters are #3 and #5; they are within walking distance.

When you reserve the gazebo, we like to make sure that you do not have any surprises on your special day. Therefore, please carefully read the following.

• A special-use permit is required for all weddings at the park. There is a nominal fee for a special use permit, and the application can be obtained online or at the park. The permit fee is included in the wedding package.
• The reservation does not include exclusive use of the area around the gazebo. There may be onlookers, fishermen, boaters, sunbathers, etc., in the vicinity of the gazebo, and these people also may end up in your pictures. This area is unsuitable for those wanting a private wedding.
• Has electrical outlets.
• The Howe House has public restrooms. While the house is not included in the rental, its staircase can serve as an excellent backdrop for wedding photos. The public restrooms within are small, lack electrical outlets and are ill-suited for bridal party preparations.
• The park does not provide chairs or handle setup. Those arranging for the wedding must handle those tasks. Decorations are allowed on the gazebo and poles leading up to the gazebo, but nails, thumbtacks and items that may damage the wood should not be used.
• State law permits alcohol use only in private areas (inside a cabin or camping unit) or in areas designated on permits issued by the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. With an appropriate ABC license, alcoholic beverages may be served at the meeting facility.
• Alternate locations are not provided by the park in case of bad weather.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made 61 days or more in advance of the reservation start date will be charged a 50% non-refundable cancellation fee. Cancellations made 60 days or less before the reservation start date are not eligible for a refund.

The park also rents family lodges that may be used for small retreats and get-togethers.

VISITOR CENTER, GIFT SHOP

Located in the historic Howe House, the visitor center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer season. New exhibits feature lake ecology, fish life and interactive hands-on exhibits. There are gift shops at the Howe House and the Water's Edge Meeting Facility complex.

RESTAURANT

None at this park.

LAUNDRY

The closest laundromat is three miles from the park in the Lancer Travel Plaza.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER

None at this park.

Other Info

ACCESSIBILITY

• An All-Terrain Wheelchair is available for both children and adults. Please visit the All-Terrain Wheelchair page for more information and to request a reservation.
• Picnic shelters 1 and 4.
• Picnic area restrooms near shelters 1 and 4.
• There is an accessible fishing pier in the picnic area. A 1/4-mile paved walkway leads to it. The pier is best accessed from the picnic area restroom parking lot.
• The marina has an accessible fishing platform. It's best accessed by parking at the meeting facility and taking a sidewalk down the hill.
• Several small picnic shelters in the parking area are wheelchair accessible.
• The beach bathhouse restrooms, concession area and breezeways there are accessible. There is a rather long sidewalk connecting the bathhouse to the beach; the sidewalk meets accessibility standards. The sidewalk ends at a concrete platform adjacent to the water, however, there is no ramp into the water or transfer equipment.
• Cabins 1, 6 and 7 are accessible. This includes level entry to exterior doors, modified interior door widths, renovated restrooms and kitchens, and widened exterior doors. Cabins 13, 14, 15 and 16 are also accessible.
• Campgrounds A and D have accessible restrooms. Campsites D-27 and D-35 are accessible. Yurt 1 in Campground B is accessible.
• The Water’s Edge Meeting Facility has accessible parking spaces and a sidewalk that leads directly to the front entrance and deck. The meeting room, restrooms, gift shop and snack bar are accessible.
• Howe House restrooms can be accessed through the house's back door.
• Accessible parking spaces are designated at the beach, marina, visitor center and two picnic areas.
• Lakeview Trail and a paved section of Poplar Leaf Trail that connects Campground D to the day-use area are accessible. Although gas-powered devices are not permitted on park trails, electric-powered wheelchairs, golf carts, Segways (r) and scooters that meet the federal definition for wheelchairs are allowed.

NATURE, HISTORY PROGRAMS

Many interpretive programs and guided walks are offered throughout the year, but primarily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The programs cover wildlife, natural sciences, history, recreation and more. Program schedules are updated weekly and posted throughout the park. Sailing programs also are offered throughout the summer. Click here to view all parks' events, festivals, workshops and interpretive programs.

CONCESSIONS

Gas dock, gift shop and snack bar. The beach complex's snack bar is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The gas dock and gift shop are open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day as well as on Saturday and Sunday from April 1 through Memorial Day and from Labor Day through October. The gift shop will be open on weekends from November through March.

HISTORY

Claytor Lake was formed when Appalachian Power Company built a dam on the New River, just south of Radford, in 1939. This is the largest of the power company's 12 hydroelectric plants, with a total generating capacity of 83,000 kilowatts. In early 1944, the people of the surrounding area expressed an interest in the establishment of a state park on the new lake. The idea continued to grow, and in 1946 private citizens and businesses from Pulaski, Radford and Blacksburg raised the money needed to purchase 437 acres from Appalachian Power. This land was given to the state to be developed as Claytor Lake State Park. Due to a lack of operating funds, the Radford Chamber of Commerce operated the park during the summers of 1949 and 1950. The Division of State Parks took over the operation of the park in 1951. In 1962, 35 additional acres were purchased, bringing the total acreage to 472.

View the park's virtual history tour. 

Historic Howe House

Before the park existed, the house was built here between 1876 and 1879 by Haven Howe, a Civil War veteran and early environmentalist. The house now serves as the park office. Learn more about this historic structure.

The Dunkard's Bottom/Christian Chimney

Standing next to the Howe House is a reconstructed hybrid chimney of the relocated Dunkard's Bottom chimney monument and the William Christian chimney. As Claytor Lake was being constructed, one of the original Dunkard chimneys was moved to the middle of the triangular intersection of State Park Road (then Monument Road) and Wilderness Road to commemorate the first settlement west of the New River on the frontier at Dunkard's Bottom in 1745. Originally this settlement was named Mahanaim by the Eckerlin's, German immigrant sectarians called "Dunkers" from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was located less than a mile downstream from the park at a location currently submerged. The mill site they erected there became known as Dunkard's Mill and Dunkard's Bottom. During the French and Indian War, a fort named Fort Frederick was erected at Dunkard's Bottom in 1755.

Another chimney at Dunkard's Bottom was left freestanding in the lake. It was outfitted with a light as a memorial to William Christian, who constructed a home at Dunkard's Bottom in 1772. Christian was a military commander and was directly involved in the Fincastle Resolutions, a percussor leading up to the Declaration of Independence. Today, William Christian is more widely known in the town of "Christiansburg." The Cloyd home was erected in 1809 at the Dunkard's Bottom site, whose descendants later inherited the lands and built a home in 1879 called Crescent Falls (Howe House) at present-day Claytor Lake State Park.

FRIENDS GROUP

The Claytor Lake State Park Ambassadors group helps conserve the park's natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources. The group also promotes environmental stewardship and lends a hand with various recreational and educational activities. For more information or to join the group, email the group.

MASTER PLAN

Master plans must be written for parks before they're built. The plans are updated at least once every 10 years thereafter. The plans cover the size, types, infrastructure and locations of facilities as well as the site's special features and resources. Three public meetings are held during the initial development of each plan. Click here for this park's master plan.