Claytor Lake State Park Live Cam

Claytor Lake State Park is a beautiful state park located in Dublin, Virginia. The park is situated on the shores of Claytor Lake, a 4,500-acre reservoir created by the Claytor Dam on the New River. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and swimming.

The history of the park dates back to the 1930s when the Appalachian Power Company built the Claytor Dam and created Claytor Lake. The lake was primarily used for hydroelectric power generation, but it quickly became a popular spot for recreational activities.

In the 1940s, the Virginia State Park system began to acquire land around the lake to create a state park. The park was officially opened in 1952, and it quickly became a popular destination for visitors from across the region.

Over the years, the park has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades to improve the visitor experience. In 2005, a new visitors center was built, and in 2006, a new campground was opened. Today, the park covers more than 470 acres and features over 200 campsites, as well as numerous picnic areas, hiking trails, and boat launches.

Claytor Lake State Park is an important part of the history and culture of the region, and it continues to be a popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the park has to offer.

Top Tourist Attractions

Claytor Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are some of the top tourist attractions at the park:

• Claytor Lake: The park is situated on the shores of Claytor Lake, which is a beautiful 4,500-acre reservoir. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and water skiing.
• Hiking Trails: The park has several hiking trails that wind through the woods and along the lake shore. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, and they offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding scenery.
• Camping: Claytor Lake State Park offers over 200 campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The campsites are situated in a variety of locations throughout the park, including lakefront sites and wooded sites.
• Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas with tables, grills, and shelters. The picnic areas are situated in scenic locations throughout the park and offer a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
• Visitor Center: The park's visitor center offers exhibits and information about the park's history, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. The center also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and snacks.
• Boating: Claytor Lake State Park has several boat launches and a marina where visitors can rent boats, kayaks, and canoes. The lake is ideal for boating, and visitors can explore its many coves and inlets.
• Fishing: The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie. The park has several fishing piers and a fishing tournament held annually.

Overall, Claytor Lake State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities and scenic beauty that draws visitors year-round.

Climate

Claytor Lake State Park has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer months of June, July, and August is around 80°F (27°C), with temperatures sometimes reaching into the 90s°F (32-35°C). Humidity is often high during the summer months, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

During the winter months, the average temperature is around 40°F (4°C), with occasional snowfall and freezing temperatures. The fall and spring months are mild and comfortable, with temperatures averaging around 50-60°F (10-16°C).

The park is located in the Appalachian Mountains, which can create microclimates in different areas of the park. The lake itself can also influence the climate, with cooler temperatures near the water's surface and warmer temperatures in the surrounding areas.

Overall, visitors to Claytor Lake State Park should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and should check the forecast before their visit. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended for outdoor activities.

Geography

The park is situated on the northern shore of Claytor Lake, which is a 4,500-acre reservoir created by the Claytor Dam on the New River.

The park covers more than 470 acres and features a mix of wooded areas, open fields, and lakefront areas. The terrain is hilly, with elevations ranging from around 1,700 feet (520 meters) to 2,200 feet (670 meters) above sea level. The park is located in the Appalachian Mountains, which are known for their rugged beauty and scenic vistas.

In addition to Claytor Lake, the park is also home to several smaller bodies of water, including streams and ponds. The park's hiking trails wind through the woods and along the lake shore, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.

The park is located near several other outdoor attractions, including the New River Trail State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors to the park can also enjoy easy access to nearby towns and cities, including Roanoke and Blacksburg.