John H. Kerr Reservoir
Why Rent On John H. Kerr Reservoir
John H. Kerr Reservoir, also known as Buggs Island Lake, spans across the borders of North Carolina and Virginia, offering a vast expanse of 900 miles of wooded shoreline. This expansive lake is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. Here, you can indulge in a myriad of activities such as boating, fishing for prized catfish, and swimming in buoyed areas. The lake’s numerous public boat ramps and campgrounds, operated by the Corps of Engineers and state parks, provide ample opportunities for camping, picnicking, and hiking through scenic trails.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the nearby Kittrell Confederate Cemetery is a must. The Vance County Visitors Center offers valuable insights and information on local attractions, including the historic downtown Henderson, where you can explore the McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center. Nature lovers will appreciate the Piedmont Birding Trail, with its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including nesting bald eagles and osprey. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or serene natural beauty, John H. Kerr Reservoir is an ideal destination.
- Surface area (mi)
- 123.03
- Max depth (ft)
- 98.43
- Elevation (ft)
- 157.48
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 851.28
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Marinas on John H. Kerr Reservoir
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what John H. Kerr Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, you can swim at John H. Kerr Reservoir. Public swim beaches are available at Corps of Engineers campgrounds such as North Bend Park, Longwood Park, Buffalo Park, and Rudds Creek Day Use Area, as well as other designated swim beaches within the recreation areas around the reservoir.
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John H. Kerr Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. It provides camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and hunting opportunities, as well as picnic and recreation areas. The reservoir is also known for its excellent fishing, including being the number one Crappie fishing lake in the U.S.
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In John H. Kerr Reservoir, also known as Buggs Island Lake, the size and bag limits for black bass are as follows: You can keep 5 black bass per day, with only 2 of the 5 bass being less than 14 inches. This applies to both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
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Palmer Point Park is the best beach for families at John H. Kerr Reservoir. It has a swimming beach, picnic shelter, and life jackets available in different sizes. This makes it ideal for family activities and safety.
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Towns near John H. Kerr Reservoir include Clarksville, Boydton, and South Hill. Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia and offers shopping, dining, and lodging. South Hill, about a half hour from the dam, has a Food Lion, Walmart Supercenter, and various shopping and dining options.
