Smith Mountain Lake is located about 45 minutes southeast by car from Roanoke, Virginia and an hour drive from Lynchburg. As Virginia’s largest lake, SML is a popular drive-to destination from a number of east coast metro areas - at about 3 hours from Richmond, VA and 4 hours from Washington, DC.

If flying to the area, the closest airports to Smith Mountain Lake are Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional (ROA) or Lynchburg Regional (LYH).

The months of May through September represent the high season at SML as the weather is ideal for water sports and outdoor fun. While October through April are considered to be the low season, spring and fall are great times to visit the lake as autumn colors dot the landscape while spring buds start to bloom.

There are several boat rental companies and marinas at Smith Mountain Lake, which makes renting a boat easy. From fishing boats to jet skis and charter cruises, to guided tours, there’s a boatload of experience for your entire crew.

Definitely! Ongoing monitoring of water quality at Smith Mountain Lake is carried out annually by a dedicated team of volunteers from the Smith Mountain Lake Association. Stay alert to announcements as to partial lake closures, as applicable.

Some of the best spots to get in the water include Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which has a large sandy beach, or from the Smith Mountain Lake Community Park - where you will find seasonal lifeguards.

Smith Mountain Lake is host to numerous festivals, concerts, and festivities throughout the year. In addition to holding one of the top lakeside 4th of July fireworks displays, some of SML main events include:

• SML Poker Run (May) - Charitable event featuring boating across the lake to several scenic spots
• Pirate Days (July) - A swashbuckling affair on Smith Mountain Lake for over a decade
• SML Wine Festival (September) - The region’s premier outdoor weekend event welcoming over 10,000 wine enthusiasts
• Antique and Classic Boat Show (September) - For over three decades, this fun-filled event has provided boating enthusiasts an opportunity to see and be seen on the pristine waters of Smith Mountain Lake.
• SML Charity Home Tour (October) - Voted Best Annual SML Community and Charity Event
• Chili Festival (November) - The perfect blend of fall foliage and intensely hot chili cook-off competition