John H Kerr Old Picnic Area
Closed — Currently closed. The 2026 reservation booking window is temporarily closed until March 4, 2026. Open to the public as a day-use area when reservations resume. This location may be subject to weather-related flooding.
Special Weather Statement issued April 12 at 2:23PM EDT by NWS Wakefield VA
The combination of low relative humidity values in the 25 to 30 percent range, dry fuels, and SW winds gusting up to 20-25 mph will result in an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires Monday across much of central and eastern Virginia, including the Richmond Metro area, the Virginia Piedmont, and inland portions of the Virginia Northern Neck. Residents are urged to exercise caution handling any potential ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses and tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread quickly. Virginia residents are reminded that open burning is prohibited before 4 PM EDT each day through April 30th.
From Recreation.gov
The US Army Corps of Engineers at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir have temporarily closed the 2026 reservation booking window until March 4, 2026. To learn more about this temporary closure, visit the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir Facebook page for updates: [@JohnHKerrReservoirBuggsIslandLake][1] [1]: https://www.facebook.com/JohnHKerrReservoirBuggsIslandLake
About
Old Picnic Area is a day-use recreation site located at John H Kerr Dam and Reservoir, also known as Buggs Island Lake. The 50,000-acre lake extends 39 miles along the Roanoke River with 800 miles of wooded shoreline across Virginia and North Carolina. This reservable picnic area is popular for weddings, reunions, and large gatherings, featuring a wooden shelter with electricity for fans and lights, a nearby water spigot, and paved parking and roadway access. The site is secured behind a locked gate and includes one vault toilet and trash cans throughout the area. The Old Picnic Area sits adjacent to a sandy beach area ideal for fishing. The lake is known for largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, and flathead catfish. Shade trees and open grassy areas provide space for outdoor games and relaxation. Bald eagles can be observed year-round, and the nearby Joseph S.J. Tanner II Environmental Education Center offers interpretive programs Memorial Day through Labor Day on weekends. Hiking opportunities include the 1.5-mile Liberty Nature Trail and 5.5-mile Robert Munford Trail within a short drive. Gas, groceries, and restaurants are available within 2 miles and in Boydton and South Hill, Virginia.
Directions
From Boydton, Virginia, take Highway 58 west for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Mays Chapel Road and continue for about 1 mile. The Old Picnic Area will be on your right, behind a locked gate. For access, contact the office at (434) 738-6143 or visit North Bend Park nearby to reach a ranger on duty.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $100 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| jhkerr@usace.army.mil | |
| Phone | +1 (434) 738-6143 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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