LAND LOVERS
Enjoy Everything Around the Lake
105 2nd Street Clarksville, VA 23927 PO Box 1017
GOLF
Golf Kinderton Country Club – 799 Kinderton Drive, Clarksville, VA 23927 offers an eighteen-hole golf course designed by Donald Ross, putting green, driving range and club facilities. Located in charming Clarksville, Virginia on Buggs Island Lake (also known as John H. Kerr Reservoir), Kinderton Country Club is a semi-private country club with a challenging course featured in Virginia Golf and Triad Golf Magazines, and ranks first in a poll taken among golfers in Southside Virginia. Kinderton’s golf course features rolling hills throughout the course with water in play on five holes.
Trees line the fairways on all holes and judiciously placed bunkers guard the greens. Many of the greens are the traditional domed greens featured on other Donald Ross courses. However, the course is considered woman-friendly due to a minimal number of forced carries and our new gold tees. The fairways and rough are a bermuda grass mix and the greens feature MiniVerde ultradwarf bermudagrass. Warm to hot summers and mild to cool winters, make Kinderton Country Club ideal for year-round golf outings. Call 434-374-8822 for more information.
HIKING
Tailrace Park and Wildlife Observation Platform – Tailrace Park sits just below John H. Kerr (Buggs Island) Dam and Reservoir. This area is an excellent vantage point to explore the outlet for the reservoir and the resultant stream of the Roanoke River leading to Lake Gaston. The turbulent waters immediately below the dam attract dozens of double-crested cormorants to feast on the abundance of fish in the area. These are often joined by a crowd of great blue herons, equally eager to feast on the river’s bounty. This area attracts even more excitement in the winter, when innumerable ring-billed gulls congregate and occasionally bring herring, Bonaparte’s, or even more uncommon gulls in the flock. The cormorants are often joined by common mergansers that enjoy the deep, clear waters of the reservoir.
Perhaps what Tailrace Park is best known for however, are its eagles. At times during the winter months, scenes of Tailrace Park include over a dozen bald eagles, a scene reminiscent more of Alaska than Virginia. Bald eagles can be found year-round although the large numbers are present only in the winter. These treasures join the numerous ospreys gliding overhead amongst the more common turkey vultures. A short 0.1 mile, wheelchair accessible nature trail and platform offers excellent viewing of migratory Bald Eagles from December through March. Picnic and restroom facilities are located nearby, benches are provided for viewing the Dam, Tailrace, and Buggs Island. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 434-738-6101.
Wildlife Management Areas – Please see the hunting section below for information regarding area wildlife management near Clarksville.
Hiking Occoneechee State Park – 3.1 miles of walking trails wind through woodlands and past scenic lake views. A one-mile interpretive trail takes visitors to the terraced gardens of the Old Plantation grounds. The park also features a 15-mile multi-purpose trail for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Located on US Highway 58, approximately 1/10 mile east of Clarksville. The park’s interpretive program schedule can be found using the table here. Please review the Virginia State Parks Know Before You Go information before you visit. For more information call 434-374-2210.
Liberty Hill Nature Trail (foot traffic only) – The trail is located on the south side of Kerr Dam and ample parking is available. The 1.6 mile trail is a self-guided interpretive trail and is white blazed. Liberty Trail meanders through mixed hardwoods, an old cemetery, and descends to river which overlooks Buggs Island as well as the back side of the Dam. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 434-738-6101.
Robert Munford Trail (non-motorized use only) – Seven miles one way. Trailheads located at the end of Taylor’s Ferry Road and Greenwood Road, at Eagle Point. Take 58 West out of Boydton, turn left on Jefferson street (756), then left onto Taylor’s Ferry Road (705). Taylor’s Ferry meets Greenwood Road and turns to dirt at Greenwood Baptist Church. White blazed trail along reservoir shoreline through lowland hardwoods and upland mixed oak, pine, and hickory stands. The trail is named for an important resident of early Mecklenburg County and the trail passes his gravesite. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: 434-738-6101.
HUNTING
Dick Cross Wildlife Management Area – Nationally known for hosting bird dog field trials, the Dick Cross Wildlife Management Area (formerly Elm Hill) is also a major wintering area for waterfowl, popular dove hunting area, and home to a diverse resident upland wildlife population. The entire management area serves as a refuge for various waterfowl and no hunting for waterfowl is allowed.
From U.S.Route 58 near Boydton, between South Hill and Clarksville take State Route 4 south. Go about five miles to the management area entrance. Not only is this great hunting area, but it is beautiful countryside with amazing views of our community’s natural resources.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wildlife Management Areas – The US Army Corps of Engineers manages areas to improve and protect habitat for various wildlife species. These areas are available for many uses, including hunting (in season), nature viewing, foot, horse and bike travel. Some of the dirt and gravel roads are open to vehicles. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 434-738-6101.
Hunting Occoneechee State Park– Panhandle Area provides public hunting for those with a valid state hunting license; you must register at the area’s access gate. Located on US Highway 58,approximately 1/10 mile east of Clarksville. For more information call 434-374-2210.
PROGRAMS & EDUCATION
Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries – Wildlife Management Area Visitor/Education Centers Occoneechee State Park Visitor Center – The center features Native American history, “The Occoneechee Story,” a living hut and artifacts. Also within is a year-round gift shop featuring Native American merchandise, t-shirts, hats, souvenirs, postcards and educational material.
Visitor Assistance Center for the Corps of Engineers – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates this 50,000 acre reservoir and an additional 50,000 acres of surrounding land. Opened in 1952, Kerr Lake (Buggs Island Lake) was constructed primarily to provide flood control and hydropower generation. The 900 miles of wooded shoreline stretch across Virginia and North Carolina. Along the shoreline you can find opportunities to boat, fish, camp, swim, picnic, hike, and hunt. The Corps of Engineers operates four campgrounds and several day-use facilities for boat launching, swimming and picnicking. Kerr Lake is widely known for large-mouth and striped bass fishing, as well as crappie fishing. Resident and non-resident fishing licenses from Virginia or North Carolina are recognized on all reservoir waters. Visit us to pick up area brochures and maps, as well as, learn about some of the history of the area. Located adjacent to the John H. Kerr Dam, next to North Bend Park. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am until 4:30 pm. It is closed for holidays. Specific programs and times may be obtained by calling the Visitor Assistance Centerat 434-738-6143.
The Powerhouse – located down the hill from the Corps of Engineers visitor center in the Tailrace Park area, is currently closed to the public.
Corps of Engineers Interpretive Programs – Available to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day at the Tanner Center, North Bend Park and Rudd’s Creek Campground. Special programs can be scheduled throughout the year for groups and schools. For more information, or to set up a program, call (434) 738-6143 ext. 151.
Occoneechee State Park – Providing 24-hour access to Virginia’s largest lake, three boat ramps open the door to 48,000 acres of fishing, boating and aquatic recreation. Forty-eight campsites are available for tent and RV campers. Named for Native Americans who lived in the area for hundreds of years, Occoneechee is on the John H. Kerr Reservoir, better known as Buggs Island Lake, and is popular with anglers and boaters. Facilities include cabins, campsites, an equestrian campground, picnic shelters, an amphitheater, a playground, boat ramps, and a private concession offering boat rentals and snacks. Occoneechee Marina offers a fuel dock and boat slips with water and electric service for annual rentals. Three slips are available for rent to overnight camping and cabin guests. The park also has 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The visitor center and museum introduce visitors to Native American history and the indigenous Occoneechee people. Interpretive programs are offered from May to September. Contact the park for specific dates, times and locations within the park. A fee is required for some programs: 434-374-2210. Visit the website for more information.
Joseph S. J. Tanner II Environmental Education Center The Joseph S.J. Tanner Environmental Education Center offers a chance to get “hands on” and experience some of the native wildlife in the area. It’s a great chance to learn about local bird and mammal species and have the opportunity to feel real animal furs. Visit the Butterfly Garden at the Tanner Center. It’s a great place for the pollinator enthusiast to observe and photograph these beautiful creatures. Normal Operations: Saturday and Sunday, April 1 to October 31, 9-Noon and 1pm-4pm Open for groups or programs by special request. Call for additional information: 434-738-6143. Located just down the road from the Corps of Engineers visitor center at the intersection of Mays Chapel Road and VA Route 4 (which leads across the Dam). Call the Visitor Assistance Center at 434-738-6143 for times/details.
PICNICS & PARKS
Occoneechee State Park – Who doesn’t love a picnic!?! The Occoneechee State Park is open daily from 8am until dusk. The Visitor Center hours are 8am until 4pm daily. The Visitor Center is closed on major holidays so visit their website to check before you visit. They also have a Splash Park which is open seasonally and information is available on their website.
Named for Native Americans who lived in the area for hundreds of years, Occoneechee is on the John H. Kerr Reservoir, better known as Buggs Island Lake, and is popular with anglers and boaters. Facilities include cabins, campsites, an equestrian campground, picnic shelters, an amphitheater, a playground, boat ramps, and a private concession offering boat rentals and snacks. Occoneechee Marina offers a fuel dock and boat slips with water and electric service for annual rentals. Three slips are available for rent to overnight camping and cabin guests. The park also has 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The visitor center and museum introduce visitors to Native American history and the indigenous Occoneechee people.
Its address is 1192 Occoneechee Park Road, Clarksville, VA 23927-9449. Download their booklet for more information.
Rudds Creek Recreation Area– Picnic area with shelter. Reservations accepted for shelter. Located on US Highway 58, 8 miles east of Clarksville. There are 98 sites for tents or RVs, and amenities like hot showers, flush toilets and a dump station provide a comfortable camping experience. A swimming beach and picnic shelter make the campground ideal for families. The campground has its own boat ramp and courtesy dock for campers only. All electric sites have water hook-ups. 434-738-6827. Fee.
Longwood Recreation Area– Buffalo Park is a small day use and campground park, located on John H. Kerr Reservoir. The campground is usually open May 1 – September 30. The Day Use Park is open year-round. Visitors to Buffalo Park will enjoy the lakeside views and the quaint park.
The campground has 21 sites: 11 shady electric sites (1 is a double) and 10 primitive sites in an open field. Primitive sites are small with limited shade. Two of the electric sites are paved and are accessible. Amenities include “family-style” individual restrooms with hot showers, sink and flush toilets. The park a swim beach, picnic shelter, and a boat ramp.
HISTORY
Clarksville
Explore the shore and continue the fun with historic sites, museums, and monuments.
Clarksville Historical District and Walking Tour – Take the historical walking tour and see 62 Clarksville structures listed in the historical register; tour maps are available at the Chamber Office.
Clarksville Regional Museum –801 West Street. Clarksville Museum is filled with artifacts of the Clarksville area, including a Tobacco room, a Buffalo Lithia Springs room, and a typical sewing room. Collection of arrowheads and antique agricultural implements. Hours of operation: Starting April 6th-Saturday, 1 to 4 PM until further notice. Free admission. For more info, call (434) 374-4434 or email clarksvillemuseum@gmail.com.
Mecklenburg County Veterans Memorial Monument – dedicated to the men and women of Mecklenburg County who lost their lives while serving in the Armed Forces protecting us and our freedom…World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and Iraq. Located at the intersection of Highway 58 and Highway 15 South in front of the Clarksville Fine Arts Center. Open year-round.
Occoneechee State Park Visitor Center & Museum – Experience the Native American Living Culture. Open year-round. 434-374-2210
Prestwould Plantation – Built 1794-95 by Sir Peyton Skipwith, Baronet & Lady Jean Skipwith. Open April 15-October 31, Thurs–Sat (12:30-3:30pm), Sun (12:30-3:30) or by appointment, 434-374-8672.
Boydton
Boyd Tavern – A National Historic Landmark constructed in 1790. Open by appointment only 434-738-6344.
Buffalo Junction
Buffalo Springs Wayside – Mineral water springs. In 1895 the water sold for $5 a dozen half-gallon bottles. It’s free to the public today. Located ¼ mile off US Highway 58, approximately 7 miles west of Clarksville.
Chase City
MacCallum More Museum & Gardens – Gorgeous five-acre garden filled with cultivated & wildflowers and herbs highlighted by stonewalls. The museum houses many exhibits including Indian artifacts. 603 Hudgins Street, Chase City, VA 23924. 434-372-3483.
South Hill
South Hill Model Railroad Museum – Located in the renovated railroad depot downtown South Hill and features two operating HO Scale model railroad displays. 434-447-4547.
Virginia S. Evans Doll Museum – Exhibits more than 500 dolls, some dating back to the 1860s. 434-447-4547
Tobacco Farm Life Museum of Virginia – A lifestyle and activities of the farm family during the early 1900s and offers displays on the production of tobacco from seed to market, including methods of planting, handling, curing, and selling.434-337-2551.
