Explore One Of Virginia’s Deepest, Cleanest Lakes At Lake Moomaw

Crystal-clear water. A gentle breeze. A view of the surrounding mountains. Does this sound like an idyllic day trip destination? If so, load up the car and head to Lake Moomaw in western Virginia. With beautiful blue water and a maximum depth of over 150 feet, it's one of the deepest, cleanest lakes in Virginia. Come with us as we dive into what makes this place so special.

Nestled alongside the Jackson River in the Alleghany Mountains, Lake Moomaw is a beautiful 2,530-acre cold-water lake.

It's perhaps most famous as a swimming hole. As you can see, the water is refreshing, clear, and absolutely stunning!

The lake was created by Gathright Dam for the purpose of both flood control and recreation. The idea for Lake Moomaw was born shortly after WWII; however, the project was not completed until the early '80s.

Today, it's easily one of the regions most popular recreation sites, and it's no mystery why.

In addition to the myriad of water activities available, visitors can enjoy 43 miles of undeveloped, wooded shoreline.

It's also an angler's dream. The lake offers a sport fishery, stocked with bass, catfish, sunfish, crappie, and trout.

For a fun excursion, park at the main area and enjoy the Lake Moomaw Greenwood Point Trail, a nearly 6-mile trek that offers stunning views of the water.

Have you ever visited Lake Moomaw in Virginia? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! Before embarking on your adventure, be sure to take a look at our outdoor essentials packing list.

For more to explore, check out our list of the best day trip destinations in Virginia:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/virginia/best-day-trips-va/