Your SML Guide to Everything Outdoors

When it comes to the great outdoors, Smith Mountain Lake offers families an endless adventure. The lake itself offers plenty of recreational activities such as boating, water sports, and fishing. But if you want to take your activities off-water, here’s where you should go.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Located on the north shore in Bedford County, the Smith Mountain Lake State Park has everything you could want to enjoy a day at the lake. In addition to onsite boat rentals, a fishing pier, and a public beach, the SML State Park offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area. While the trails range from easy to moderate and come complete with gorgeous views of Smith Mountain lake. A public picnic area and playground provide a perfect rest area for busy families. And on-site cabin rentals and campgrounds make the Smith Mountain Lake State Park a great choice for a weekend getaway.

Smith Mountain Lake Community Park
The Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. A large public beach, playground, walking trails, covered picnic areas, and fishing piers offer groups a variety of activities to fill up the day. Located at the end of Park Place Boulevard off of Scruggs Road, the SML Community Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk (Public beach hours are seasonal. Check the website for more information.)

Booker T. Washington National Monument
Located in Westlake directly off of Route 122, the Booker T. Washington National Monument is a must-see for anyone living or visiting Smith Mountain Lake. The museum offers an interactive display depicting the life and accomplishments of Booker T. Washington. In addition to the museum, the attraction offers picnic areas, beautiful walking trails, and living history demonstrations depicting Booker T. Washington’s homeplace.

Peaks of Otter
If you love hiking, then you’ll want to venture to the Blue Ridge Parkway to check out the trails at Peaks of Otter. There’s a trail for every skill level, from challenging 4.4-mile climbs to leisurely loops through the woods. Peaks of Otter is located at Milepost 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford.