Those looking to combine waterscapes and regional history in Mecklenburg County will find two distinct highlights: the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir, and historic sites such as Prestwould, Boydton and South Hill. Also known as Buggs Island Lake, the lake covers 50,000 acres, extends 39 miles up the Roanoke River, and has 800 miles of wooded, cove-lined shoreline in Virginia and North Carolina. Its extensive shoreline makes it a natural highlight; the historic sites offer a separate focus.
By the Water and on Short Trails
Fishing is possible at the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir. North Bend Park offers more than 200 sites for tents or RVs, as well as three boat ramps. Those planning to spend time outdoors there will also find a paved, 1.5-mile bicycle path. The information points to several options at the park, without combining cycling, boating and camping into a single itinerary.
Another hiking option is the 1.5-mile Liberty Nature Trail, a short drive from the North Bend Park Campground. The bicycle path at North Bend Park and the Liberty Nature Trail are the same length, but offer different activities: a paved bicycle path at the park and a hiking option on the trail. Below Kerr Dam, visitors can watch waterfowl and bald eagles year-round. This wildlife viewing adds a distinct nature experience to the trails and activities by the water.
Historic Sites and Their Stories
Prestwould was completed in 1795 as a large Georgian mansion and was the centerpiece of a 10,000-acre plantation. Its formal garden is one of Virginia’s most thoroughly documented historic gardens. The estate also includes a late-18th-century slave house, considered the oldest known surviving slave house in Virginia and possibly in the southern United States. The Prestwould Foundation presents the estate to the public and is working on the long-term restoration of its many components. Check current visitor information before your visit.
In Boydton, Boyd Tavern tells a story of more than 200 years of social and political activity: built in the 18th century, the building served as a center for these activities for that long. The Boydton Historic District is considered one of the best-preserved small county seats in Virginia. In South Hill, the Commercial Historic District illustrates the tobacco and railroad economy around the turn of the 20th century. It includes tobacco warehouses and commercial buildings along West Danville Street and Mecklenburg Avenue.
Clarksville also offers a historic point of reference: Virginia Avenue has always been the main thoroughfare through the Clarksville Historic District. Many buildings and properties in the historic districts of Clarksville, Boydton and South Hill are visible from public rights-of-way. This is a helpful way to get a view of the sites; it does not mean that private properties are automatically open to the public. The Thyne Institute Memorial is stop number 36 on the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail. The MacCallum More Museum & Gardens preserves artifacts and regional history.
Getting There from Richmond
From Richmond, the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir can be reached via I-95, I-85, US 58 and VA 4. When choosing travel highlights, the water activities and trails at the reservoir can be considered alongside the historic sites: each offers its own specific attractions.
Discover more destinations: La Crosse, King George, King William County, Prince George, Fredericksburg, Colonial Heights, Fairfax County, Clarke County.
For the broader travel overview: Virginia.
