Lake A. Willis Robertson

Description

Elevation: 1464 ft.

The lake is at its best during migration and winter when a variety of waterfowl may appear. However, the summer months do not disappoint. During the summer scan the lakeshore for great blue and green herons as well as the occasional belted kingfisher rattling by. The lake is also a great place to watch for swifts and swallows as they skim the water for a drink. The lake supports a great diversity of dragonflies, which are easily seen from the boat landing. Search for eastern amberwing, widow and slaty skimmers, eastern pondhawk, and prince baskettail. Damselflies in general are less prevalent but powdered dancers abound. The banks of the lake are good to search for butterflies, especially around damp areas or where fish remains have been dropped. Eastern tiger and spicebush swallowtails are especially numerous and are occasionally joined by the more uncommon eastern commas that tend to stick closer to the woods.

Notes:

• To fish or boat on the lake, a Restore the Wild Membership, Virginia hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required. The remainder of the park is free to visit during the day.

Directions

Physical Address: 106 Lake Robertson Dr, Lexington, VA 24450

From the intersection of I-64 and I-81 near Lexington, take I-64 W toward Lexington/Charleston and then take exit 55 for US 11 toward SR 39/Lexington/Goshen. Turn left onto US 11 S and continue for 3 miles. Continue straight onto SR 251 N for 5.6 miles, and then turn right to stay on SR 251 N. In 4.3 miles, continue onto SR 770/Turnpike Rd and turn left (west) at its intersection with SR 646. Then, turn right (north) onto SR 652 and follow to park and lake access.