Smith Mountain Lake has 500 miles of winding shoreline, and 20,600 acres of sparkling waters also offer countless possibilities for boating. About a dozen places rent various types of boats, from pontoons to motorboats and houseboats. The largest lake in the National Forest, Lake Moomaw is popular for boaters. You have to bring your own boat, but there is a full-service marina and two boat ramps. Camping From primitive campsites to modern RV campgrounds with all the amenities, camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a four-season activity.
Forests cover two-thirds of Virginia, with most of it in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Camping here is a huge industry, offering an inexpensive, family-oriented recreational pastime whether you prefer KOA Kamping Kabins with all the comforts of home or a remote spot in the woods flat enough for your tent. At Blue Ridge campgrounds, you'll usually find swimming holes in cool mountain streams or lakes and copious hiking trails. Some places even have boat rentals and horseback riding. In the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, most family camping is on a first come, first served basis. No rental cabins or other lodging is available in national forest campgrounds.