Top Snake-Infested Lakes in Virginia You Should Know About

Snakes are a less desirable aspect of Virginia’s natural beauty, despite the state being well-known for its lush landscapes and historical charm.

Even though the majority of species are not dangerous to people, there are reported to be larger populations of these reptiles in a few of the state’s lakes.

This article covers five of these waterways and offers vital details for anyone organizing outdoor activities in the Old Dominion.

Douthat Lake

Situated in the stunning Alleghany Mountains on Virginia’s northern border, Douthat State Park is home to Douthat Lake. Fishing for rainbow, brown, and brook trout is a popular activity on the 50-acre lake.

Many kinds of snakes have been observed to call Douthat Lake and its environs home, including the deadly Timber Rattlesnake and Eastern garter snakes, Northern water snakes, and Northern copperheads.

You should exercise caution when walking the trails, avoiding the lake, and anyplace else in the park, as the Timber Rattlesnake, like many other venomous snakes, is only a threat when cornered and scared.

Lake Anna

Lake Anna is a big reservoir that is easily visited as a day excursion from Richmond, stretching 17 miles (27 km) in length. Similar to most lakes in Virginia, this location is home to common species such as the copperhead, the scarlet snake, and the North American racer.

Top Snake-Infested Lakes in Virginia You Should Know About — Image By: Navionics

Wherever you are along Lake Anna’s 200-mile shoreline, exercise caution when walking because only the copperhead bears strong venom that can cause harm. You should also know the location of the closest hospital or medical facility.

Watch out for the notable skink population that calls this area home in addition to snakes. The Common five-line skink, the multicolored Broadhead skink, the Little brown skink, and other species are found.

Lake Gaston

Long and narrow, measuring 34 miles (55 km) in length and 1.3 miles (2.1 km) in width, Lake Gaston is shared between North Carolina and Virginia.

In addition to a wide variety of fish, such as catfish and bass, Lake Gaston is also home to three different kinds of snakes: the banded water snake, the northern water snake, and the black rat snake. All of these snakes are known to bite, however the Black Rat snake is the only one that is poisonous.

Boat rentals are offered at locations like Holly Grove Marina if you want to explore this sizable lake from the water. So, from the protection of a boat, individuals who are interested in local snake species can set out to look for some firsthand.

Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake, the second-biggest lake in the state, is a well-liked destination for weekend getaway seekers as well as an important ecological zone.

Numerous snake species may be found in this 32 square mile (83 square km) lake, including the Eastern rat snake, Northern water snake, Eastern worm snake, rough green snake, and more.

One kind of snake that is not poisonous, in contrast to the other four snakes on this list, is the copperhead. However, there’s no need to worry—there aren’t often copperhead sightings in this area, and neighboring towns like Lynchburg and Roanoke have easily accessible medical facilities to treat snakebites.

Happyland Camp Five Lake

Tucked away in the picturesque Prince Willian Forest Park lies a little lake called Happyland Camp Five Lake. The majority of the snakes’ prey, which includes fish, tiny reptiles, and small mammals, reside near bodies of water, just like in many other snake-infested areas.

Many species can be found in the area surrounding Happyland Camp Five Lake, including the Eastern garter snake, Black rat snake, Northern ringneck, Northern copperhead, and Timber rattlesnake.

If you are only hiking, swimming, or fishing in the region, or if you are camping in the well-liked wooden cabins surrounding the lake, be alert.

To Conclude

Although the lakes in Virginia provide beautiful scenery and a variety of recreational options, it’s vital to be mindful of the possibility of coming across snakes.

You can enjoy the outdoors securely by being aware of the different kinds of snakes that inhabit these waters and by taking the appropriate safety measures.

Recall that most interactions with snakes are benign and that many species pose no threat to people. To ensure a memorable and safe time in Virginia’s stunning lakes, respect their ecosystem, keep a safe distance, and educate yourself about snake behavior.

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