Smith Mountain Lake is located in Southwestern Virginia approximately one hour from Lynchburg in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With 500 miles of shoreline, SML covers three counties Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania. The lake was created in the 1960's primarily to generate electricity. The Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers were dammed, Smith Mountain Lake began filling in 1963 and was at full pond by 1966.
Smith Mountain Lake Dam by boat
The water surface covers 32 square miles. Normal or full pond level is 795 feet above sea level. The lake is deepest near the dam at approximately 250 feet. The average depth is 55 feet. This past year, we experienced a drought and the level dropped approximately five feet. I'm happy to report that the lake has recovered to normal levels since AEP restricted the outflow of water.
The average temperature is 73F in summer, 41F in winter. The average rainfall is 43 inches and snowfall average is 10 inches.
Visit the Dam
Take some time to check out the Visitor Center at the Dam. You'll learn how electricity is generated by American Electric Power. The kids will like the computer models, theatre, hands on exhibits. There are picnic facilites with grills at the base of the dam.
Smith Mountain Lake Dam Visitors Center
For hours of operation and other information, call (540) 985-2587
For more information on Smith Mountain Lake: things to do, homes for sale or the surrounding counties, contact:
Debbie Malone, Realtor
RE/MAX 1st Olympic
(434) 546-0369
20395 Timberlake Rd
Lynchburg, VA 24502
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