Experience Everything Lake Anna has to offer through All Four Seasons
By Arielle Patterson
If you’re planning a visit to beautiful Lake Anna, you may think that the only time of year is during the warm-weather months. However, Lake Anna is a perfect getaway no matter what the weather is like. The surrounding region is filled with things to do, see, and plenty to eat and drink. Here’s a look at what each season can bring in the Lake Anna area.
Spring
Things to Do
Although it’s not quite warm enough for a dip, take a kayak or canoe out on the water. Spring is the official start of paddling season. With over 13,000 surface acres of fresh water, Lake Anna is a paddlers paradise.
Get ready to cast a line in spring on Lake Anna. Avoid the summer crowds and be one of the first anglers on the water.
Things to See
Spring is when Lake Anna starts to come alive. Beautiful flower buds appear, painting the landscape with color. Start your visit at Lake Anna State Park. As you walk the trails, you’ll witness firsthand life sprouting forth—green leaves reappearing and blossoms everywhere. The park boasts 11 trails totaling over 15 miles giving you plenty of opportunities to take in this serene landscape.
Eat & Drink
When the weather warms up, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible outside. The counties surrounding Lake Anna have a number of restaurants with outdoor patio seating and several that are right on the water. Enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the lake.
Read more about Things to do in Spring in Lake Anna >>
Summer
Things to Do
It’s getting hot outside. Time to dive into the many water excursions available at Lake Anna. There’s so much to do—waterskiing, tubing, wakeboarding, parasailing and more! This is Lake Anna’s peak season for a reason. You’ll almost forget that you’re in Central Virginia while you lounge and play on these white sand beaches.
Summer is prime time for gold hunting. Lake Anna State Park pays homage to the area’s history with Stampmill Sam’s Gold Adventure, a gold-themed event held during summer. The program includes a trip to Goodwin Gold Mine, where the area’s first gold was discovered. Get a lesson in the methods used to mine gold and a chance to do some gold panning yourself at Pigeon Run.
Things to See
Watch the sky light up during a dazzling display of fireworks over Fourth of July weekend. These patriotic firework shows take place over the holiday weekend. Fire up the grill or head out on your dock after dark to enjoy the brightly shining fireworks.
Eat & Drink
Visit one of the area farmers markets, like the Mineral Farmers Market, to shop locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade baked goods, fresh seafood, fresh flowers and more from vendors.
Cool off from the hot summer sun with a visit to a local brewery or cidery. Take a tour of the tasting room then enjoy a craft beverage outside on the outdoor patio.
Read about Summer Activities for Kids >>
Fall
Things to Do
The weather is cooling down, so fall is the time to get outdoors before the winter chill sets in. There is so much rich history to experience in the regions around Lake Anna. Some of the most important battles of the Civil War happened just a short distance away. Fall is a great time to tour these important, historic locations and learn about our nation’s history.
Things to See
Without the scorching sun, your family will love hiking the trails surrounding Lake Anna. Take in the scenic vistas surrounding Lake Anna. The trees become vibrant with color—the reds, yellows and oranges of a lovely fall landscape. Discover why people travel to Central Virginia from all over for leaf peeping.
Eat & Drink
Fall is also the best time to experience Virginia’s wine country. Take a tour of the local vineyards during the height of their beauty, with luscious grape bunches coloring the laden vineyards. Blaze your own tasting trail through wine country.
The Lake Anna Grapes & Grains Festival is a can’t-miss event featuring craft beer, local wine and great food—all right on the lake.
Winter
Things to Do
Life slows down around Lake Anna in the winter. If you’re looking for a weekend of pure relaxation, a winter getaway may be exactly what you need. Book a rental home or visit one of the local bed and breakfasts for beautiful environments at a fraction of the cost.
Don’t let the cold weather scare you off the lake. Local anglers know that Lake Anna is still prime for fishing, so don’t pack up the fishing equipment quite yet. The warm water from the North Anna Power Station makes Lake Anna a refuge for both baitfish and gamefish, especially striped bass and largemouth bass.
Things to See
Christmas is celebrated with zeal in the quaint counties near Lake Anna. See a small-town parade or get cocoa and crafts at the local Christmas fair. The Louisa Christmas Festival and Parade are holiday traditions that have been going on since 1742. Board a trolley or hitch a hay ride through a forest of lights at the Festival of Lights in Bumpass. Explore downtown Orange as it transforms into an old-fashioned village at the start of December. The streets are filled with holiday music, seasonal vendors and, of course, Santa.
Eat & Drink
Without the crowds, you can get right into the best restaurants without waiting. Lake Anna and the nearby cities and towns offer some unforgettable cuisine. If you are a gourmand, you may want to plan your visit around Louisa County’s Restaurant Week. This is a great opportunity to visit the county’s diverse restaurants at a discounted price.
