Tailrace Park

Tailrace Park is located just below John H. Kerr Reservoir, a 50,000-acre lake that extends 39 miles up the wooded, cove-studded shoreline of the Roanoke River in Virginia and North Carolina. Also known as Buggs Island Lake, it was created with the construction of the John H. Kerr Dam in 1952. Visitors to Tailrace Park will enjoy the riverside view. There is a picnic shelter as well as flush toilets during peak season, which make the park ideal for families. The location is unstaffed. Tailrace is a semi-wooded location with many fishing and birding opportunities. There is a kayak launch available for access into the Roanoke River, and a small pier that can be used for birding, as bald eagles are often seen here. The lake is widely known for fishing, with large-mouth bass, striped bass, crappie, flathead catfish, channel catfish and blue catfish available. Public lands around the lake are open to hunting with appropriate state licenses, and there are 26 Wildlife Management Areas around the lake that provide year-round opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, birding and more. South Hill, Virginia is located approximately 20 minutes away, with shopping, gas and groceries available.