Buggs Island: On the Lake and On the Shore!

See, taste, and explore the amazing Buggs Island community with a massive lake flowing between Virginia and North Carolina, rolling countryside and lush forests, and small-town charm that even die-hard city dwellers will love!

During dam construction from 1946-1952, the dam was called the Buggs Island Reservoir. Today, the lake is officially known as John H. Kerr Reservoir — but locals still call it Buggs Island Lake, and the name has stuck.

Buggs Island Lake is one of the largest lakes in the eastern United States, covering 50,000 acres and stretching across the Virginia-North Carolina border. The lake's 800 miles of shoreline encompass a remarkable diversity of landscapes, from rocky bluffs and sandy beaches to quiet coves and wooded inlets.

The fishing is exceptional — Buggs Island is particularly renowned for its striped bass (rockfish) fishing, with fish regularly exceeding 30 pounds. Largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish round out the fishing opportunities, and the lake's clear water makes it ideal for sight fishing.

Clarksville, Virginia — the largest community on the Virginia side of the lake — is a charming small city with a vibrant downtown that has been revitalized in recent years. The city's historic district features beautifully restored Victorian buildings housing restaurants, shops, and galleries.

The Clarksville Lake Country Chamber of Commerce promotes the region's tourism assets and can provide information on accommodations, restaurants, and activities throughout the area.

Beyond fishing and boating, Buggs Island Lake offers excellent camping, hiking, and wildlife watching. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages several campgrounds and day-use areas around the lake, providing affordable access to the lake's recreational amenities.

For more information, visit visitclarksville.com.