Kerr Lake Live Cam

Discover why the residents of Clarksville's Lake Country say it's a great place to live



Hosted by:
  • Clarksville Lake Country Chamber
  • 105 2nd St - Clarksville
  • Virginia 23927 - United States
  • (434) 374-2436
  • [email protected]
  • https://clarksvilleva.com/

Kerr Lake History

Kerr Lake is a man-made reservoir that spans the border between Virginia and North Carolina. The lake is formed by the John H. Kerr Dam, which was built on the Roanoke River in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The lake is named after Congressman John H. Kerr of North Carolina, who played a key role in securing funding for the project.

Prior to the construction of the John H. Kerr Dam, the area where the lake now stands was a rural, agricultural region. The construction of the dam and the subsequent flooding of the area created a new landscape and a new way of life for the people who lived there.

The creation of Kerr Lake also had a significant impact on the region's economy. The lake has become a major recreational destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The lake is also an important source of hydroelectric power, providing electricity to thousands of homes and businesses in the region.

In addition to its economic impact, Kerr Lake has also played a role in the region's history. The lake is located near the site of the historic town of Buffalo Junction, which was founded in the 18th century and played a key role in the region's early agricultural economy. The town was flooded when the lake was created, and many of its former residents were forced to relocate.

Today, Kerr Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The lake and its surrounding wilderness offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure, while the remnants of Buffalo Junction serve as a reminder of the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Kerr Lake Top Tourist Attractions

Kerr Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. Here are some of the top tourist attractions at Kerr Lake:

  • Boating and Fishing: Kerr Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species including largemouth and striped bass, crappie, catfish, and more. Boating is also a popular activity on the lake, with several marinas and boat ramps available for visitors.
  • Hiking and Camping: The Kerr Lake State Recreation Area offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes. The park also has several campgrounds, with options for RV and tent camping.
  • Swimming and Beaches: Several public beaches are located along the shores of Kerr Lake, offering opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Some beaches also have picnic areas and other amenities.
  • Historic Sites: The area surrounding Kerr Lake is rich in history, with several historic sites and landmarks located nearby. These include the Occoneechee State Park, which features a restored 18th-century tobacco plantation, and the Virginia S. Evans Doll Museum, which houses a collection of more than 1,000 dolls.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Kerr Lake is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, otters, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore the park's many nature trails and wildlife observation areas to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Overall, Kerr Lake is a great destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and enjoys recreational activities in a natural setting.

Kerr Lake Climate

Kerr Lake is located in the southeastern United States and has a humid subtropical climate. The summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius) and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are mild, with average temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 7 to 10 degrees Celsius) and occasional periods of colder weather.

Spring and fall are pleasant seasons to visit Kerr Lake, with mild temperatures and relatively low humidity. The spring months (March to May) bring blooming flowers and trees, while the fall months (September to November) offer beautiful foliage colors.

The area around Kerr Lake can also experience occasional tropical storms or hurricanes during the late summer and early fall months, which can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. Visitors should monitor weather reports and take necessary precautions if visiting during hurricane season.

Overall, the climate at Kerr Lake is relatively mild and comfortable for most of the year, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and recreation.

Kerr Lake Geography

Kerr Lake is a man-made reservoir that spans the border between Virginia and North Carolina. The lake was created by the John H. Kerr Dam, which was built on the Roanoke River in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The lake covers approximately 50,000 acres and has more than 800 miles of shoreline. The lake is relatively shallow, with an average depth of around 30 feet and a maximum depth of 110 feet.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and dense forests, with a variety of trees including oak, hickory, and pine. The area around the lake is also home to numerous species of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, otters, and a variety of bird species.

In addition to the John H. Kerr Dam, the lake is also fed by several tributaries, including the Dan River, the Hyco River, and the Island Creek. The lake is part of the Roanoke River Basin, which covers much of southern Virginia and northern North Carolina. Overall, the geography of Kerr Lake is characterized by its large size, numerous bays and inlets, and the surrounding rolling hills and forests. The lake and its surrounding wilderness offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.