An Unforgettable Experience Awaits, No Matter the Time of Year
By Kelsey Thomas
One may expect that Lake Anna is great for a spring or summer vacation — which is true — but what they may not know is that Lake Anna is worth in the fall and winter, too. There are endless things to see and do, both on and off the lake and each season brings a new and unique experience to be had.
Spring
Things to Do
While you might be cold if you take a dip in the water, spring is the perfect time to take out a kayak or canoe, as it is the official start of paddling season! With over 13,000 surface acres of fresh water, Lake Anna is a paddler’s paradise. It’s also a great time to cast a line. There are plenty of fish to be caught and there are much less anglers on the water during this time.
Things to See
Lake Anna is magnificently colorful in the spring, making it one of the most gorgeous times to visit. Beautiful flower buds appear, painting the landscape in bright colors. Walk the trails at Lake Anna State Park and witness firsthand life sprouting forth — green leaves reappearing and blossoms everywhere.
Eat & Drink
Imagine this: The weather is starting to warm up, the sun is shining and you’re dying to enjoy a great meal outdoors. Restaurants line the perimeter of Lake Anna and the surrounding counties have numerous restaurants with outdoor patio seating, many of which also live on the water.
Summer
Things to Do
Cool off by diving into the water of Lake Anna. Whether it’s boating, waterskiing, tubing, wakeboarding or jet skiing, you’ll never run out of water sports and excursions. You’ll almost forget that you’re in Central Virginia when you lounge and play on these white sand beaches. You even might find some hidden treasure, as summer is prime time for gold hunting and this is a wildly popular activity in the area, as 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
If you’re here in July, make sure you get to see the incredible firework displays that take place Fourth of July weekend. Whether you’re firing up the grill and getting ready to watch from where you’re lodging our you’re planning to head out by boat and enjoy it on the water, this patriotic firework display lights up the sky and you don’t want to miss it!
Eat & Drink
Many farmers markets take place in the area, like the Mineral Farmers Market, allowing you to shop for locally sourced produce and ingredients. You can find fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade baked goods, fresh seafood, fresh flowers and more. You can also cool off with a refreshing beverage at one of the many local distilleries, wineries or breweries.
Fall
Things to do
Now is your chance to take advantage of the last few weeks of perfect weather, while also learning about the area’s rich history. Some of the most important battles of the Civil War happened just a short distance away. Fall is the perfect time of year to tour these important locations and learn about our nation’s history because it’s neither too hot or cold to explore.
Things to See
Without the scorching sun, your family will love hiking the trails surrounding Lake Anna and take in the scenic vistas that feature fabulous fall foliage. The trees become vibrant with color—the reds, yellows and oranges of a lovely fall landscape. You will quickly understand why people from all over come to Lake Anna 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 fall 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, making it very relaxing for a secluded winter getaway. If you’re looking for a weekend of pure relaxation, Lake Anna 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, either. Local anglers know that even in the winter, Lake Anna is still prime for fishing. The warm water from the North Anna Power Station makes the lake a refuge for both baitfish and gamefish, especially striped bass and largemouth bass.
Things to See
Christmas cheer exuberates Lake Anna and the quaint counties that surround it. 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 hayride 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.
We hope to continue seeing you year-round here in Lake Anna, so you don’t miss out the local seasonal secrets and delights.
