Lake Anna

Louisa, Orange & Spotsylvania Counties, Virginia, USA

It is one of the state’s largest and most versatile lakes, covering more than 13,000 acres with over 200 miles of shoreline.

13,000 acres

Surface Area

80 ft

Max Depth

200+ miles

Shoreline

1972

Created

**Photo Courtesy of Lake Homes Realty

Tiffany Hazelwood

Associate Broker, Lake Homes Realty

As a Richmond native and Lake Anna expert, Tiffany Hazelwood combines her lifelong love of the lake with years of real estate success. Known for her dedication and record sales, she helps buyers and sellers achieve their dream lifestyle on and off the water.

804-874-2237

tiffanyhazelwood@aol.com

www.lakehomes.com/agents/tiffany-hazelwood

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About Lake Anna

Lake Anna was created in 1972 with the construction of the North Anna Dam on the North Anna River, intended as a cooling reservoir for the North Anna Nuclear Generating Station. Over the decades, the reservoir has transformed into a regional hotspot for boating, fishing, camping, and residential development. Its dual identity—serving both as an energy utility and a recreational paradise—makes it unique among Virginia’s lakes.

The lake is divided into two distinct areas. The public side, often called the “cold side,” is open to all visitors for water recreation. The private side, sometimes referred to as the “warm side,” is restricted to residents and guests but offers higher water temperatures due to its role in cooling the power station. Together, these two sections support a wide range of uses: from high-energy water sports to quiet cove fishing, from campgrounds and parks to luxury vacation homes. The surrounding landscape is equally diverse, with rolling farmland, forest preserves, wineries, and small towns that enrich the lake’s charm.

Key Features

Swimming Areas

Boating & Water Sports

Fishing (Diverse Species)

Marinas & Boat Services

Lake Anna State Park

Picnic Areas & Outdoor Leisure

Minimal Water Level Fluctuation

Wildlife Viewing

Quick facts (at-a-glance)

Location: Louisa, Orange & Spotsylvania Counties, Virginia
Size: ~13,000 acres of water, 200+ miles of shoreline
Created: 1972 by North Anna Dam
Nearby Town: Mineral, Virginia
Depth: Average 15–18 ft; Maximum ~80 ft
Water Source: North Anna River
Division: Public “cold side” & Private “warm side”
State Park: Lake Anna State Park (over 2,000 acres)
Visitor Use: Over 1.5 million visitors annually

Lake Anna Vacation Homes For Rent

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Lake Anna EVENT GUIDE

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Lake Anna DINING GUIDE

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What you can do there

Swimming & Relaxation: Designated swimming beaches—especially at Lake Anna State Park—provide lifeguarded areas in the summer and sandy shores perfect for families. Many waterfront communities and campgrounds also feature private swim areas, giving guests quiet coves to enjoy.

Boating & Water Sports: Lake Anna is a boating haven. Powerboaters flock to open channels for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, while calmer coves invite paddling by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Sailing is also popular, thanks to steady breezes across the wide stretches of open water. Rental services and boat clubs make access easy for visitors without their own equipment.

Fishing: Anglers prize Lake Anna for its variety. Largemouth bass is the signature catch, with striped bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and sunfish also abundant. Fishing tournaments are held year-round, and the “hot side” offers extended fishing seasons thanks to its warmer waters.

Hiking, Camping & Picnicking: Lake Anna State Park features over 15 miles of hiking and equestrian trails that weave through forested uplands, rolling meadows, and lakefront overlooks. Campgrounds, rustic cabins, and day-use picnic shelters make it an accessible year-round escape.

Wildlife Viewing & Nature Exploration: Birdwatchers regularly spot bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons along the shoreline. Deer, foxes, and smaller mammals inhabit the surrounding parklands, while the lake itself supports a balanced aquatic ecosystem.

Access, marinas & ramps

Public Access: Lake Anna State Park offers the largest public entry with a sandy beach, boat launches, parking, and day-use facilities.

Full-Service Marinas: Popular marinas such as Anna Point, Sturgeon Creek, High Point, and Lake Anna Marina provide boat rentals, slips, fueling stations, tackle shops, and food services.

Boat Ramps: More than 20 public and private ramps are scattered around the lake, ensuring convenient access no matter which shoreline community you’re near.

Private Access: Many rental homes, campgrounds, and waterfront communities feature private docks or slips, allowing direct access to the water for guests and residents.

Safety & regulations

No-Wake Zones: Strictly enforced in narrow channels, coves, and near marinas to protect swimmers, boaters, and property.
Boating Requirements: All motorboat operators must comply with Virginia boating safety certifications, and proper navigation lights are required after dark.
Life Jackets: Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices are mandatory for all watercraft users and strongly advised for swimmers outside designated areas.
Fishing Rules: Anglers must carry a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license and adhere to seasonal size and creel limits.
Private Side Access: The “warm side” is restricted to residents and their guests; trespassing or unauthorized launching is prohibited.

Gallery

Nearby highlights & suggested day trips

Lake Anna State Park: Explore over 2,000 acres with hiking trails, a swimming beach, historic gold mining exhibits, and overnight campgrounds.
Lake Anna Winery: Located just minutes away, this family-run vineyard hosts tastings, festivals, and live music events.
Kings Dominion Theme Park: A short 30–40 minute drive northeast, offering world-class roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions.
Fredericksburg Historic District: An hour east, this historic city features Civil War battlefields, museums, shopping, and dining.
Shenandoah National Park: Head west to Skyline Drive and discover some of Virginia’s most scenic mountain hiking and overlooks.

Events & community

Lake Anna has a vibrant and growing community, with events that celebrate both the lake’s recreational opportunities and the local culture. Fishing tournaments, wine festivals, live music at marinas, and holiday fireworks over the water are annual highlights. Local organizations host charity runs, paddling meetups, and community cleanups, reflecting the lake’s strong civic pride. The blend of full-time residents, vacation homeowners, and visiting tourists ensures that Lake Anna remains a lively year-round destination.