The 5 Best Lakes for Kayaking Near Lynchburg, Virginia

River not your speed? Central Virginia hides some of the best flatwater paddling in the state, all within about an hour of Lynchburg. Here are our five favorites, in rough order of drive time.

1. Otter Lake — Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 63)

The closest true mountain water to town. Small, glassy, and ringed by hardwoods, Otter Lake is a sunrise-paddle kind of place. You'll share it with trout fishermen and absolutely nobody else. Best for a quiet half-day on a single kayak or SUP.

2. Abbott Lake — Peaks of Otter

Sitting directly beneath Sharp Top mountain, Abbott Lake has the most dramatic backdrop of any water on this list. It's small — you can lap it in half an hour — but photographers and picnickers can lose a whole afternoon here.

3. Smith Mountain Lake

The big one: 500 miles of shoreline, endless coves, sandy swim spots, and summer sunsets that go full postcard. Launch from the state park side for quieter water. This is where our tandem kayaks shine — pack a cooler and make a day of it.

4. Leesville Lake

Smith Mountain's quieter sibling, just downstream. Less boat traffic, more herons, and long narrow arms that feel like paddling a slow river. A local favorite for anglers in kayaks.

5. Holliday Lake

Tucked inside Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, Holliday is a no-wake lake — meaning no jet skis, ever. If you're teaching kids to paddle, start here. Calm, shallow edges and a swim beach make it the most family-friendly water we serve.

Getting there is the easy part

Every rental includes our door-to-water shuttle: we drop you and your boat at any of these lakes and pick you up when you're done. Browse launch points on our map, or read our beginner's guide if it's your first time out.