Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations near Claytor Lake State Park, Virginia
Whether you're kayaking at dawn, hiking woodland trails, or grilling with family at your lakeside retreat, Claytor Lake delivers the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation. The area’s gentle hills and Appalachian views create a stunning backdrop for all kinds of adventures. Visitors enjoy quiet mornings, birdwatching, and stargazing far from the noise of city life. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature, serenity, and scenic simplicity.
Top areas to stay near Claytor Lake State Park, Virginia
Draper
Just a few miles from the park entrance, Draper offers scenic countryside stays with easy access to the New River Trail. Rentals in Draper include historic farmhouses, mountain-view cottages, and cozy Airbnbs perfect for couples or families. The Draper Mercantile adds charm with local eats, arts, and cycling culture. Draper provides a warm welcome and a touch of Appalachian heritage.
Pulaski
North of the lake, Pulaski is a small town with historic character, quiet neighborhoods, and close proximity to Claytor Lake. Vacation homes in Pulaski include updated mid-century houses, classic Southern porches, and peaceful spots near Draper Mountain. Guests can visit local museums, antique shops, and community events. Pulaski offers a practical and quaint base for exploring the region.
Radford
A university town just east of the lake, Radford is home to Radford University and a vibrant riverfront. Accommodations include modern apartments, campus-adjacent houses, and stylish Airbnbs with walkable access to downtown. Visitors can explore the New River, dine locally, or enjoy music and events on campus. Radford adds youthful energy and convenience.
Fairlawn
Located between Claytor Lake and Radford, Fairlawn offers convenience with quick access to the lake, golf courses, and local shopping. Rentals in Farlawn include family homes, riverside cottages, and pet-friendly Airbnbs. Guests appreciate the calm atmosphere and short drives to both nature and amenities. Fairlawn is a well-balanced location for lake visitors.
Hiwassee
Sitting along the southern shoreline, Hiwassee provides some of the closest vacation homes to Claytor Lake itself. Rentals in Hiwassee include waterfront cabins, boat-friendly Airbnbs, and secluded retreats in the woods. Hiwassee delivers lakeside charm with minimal distractions.
Must-visit places and attractions near Claytor Lake State Park, Virginia
Claytor Lake State Park Beach
The park’s designated swimming beach is a summer favorite, offering lifeguard-supervised waters, sandy shores, and shaded picnic areas. Paddleboards and kayaks are available for rent. The beach combines classic lake fun with scenic views.
Claytor Lake Marina and Water Sports
The marina offers boat rentals, jet skis, and docking slips for those looking to explore the lake by water. Visitors can spend the day fishing, tubing, or relaxing on a pontoon cruise. The calm waters make it beginner-friendly for paddling and sailing.
New River Trail State Park
A 57-mile linear park that follows an old railroad line, the New River Trail is perfect for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The trail runs close to Claytor Lake and passes through tunnels, bridges, and scenic riverside landscapes. Outdoor lovers won’t want to miss this Appalachian treasure.
Draper Mercantile and Trading Company
A local landmark in Draper, the Mercantile offers a farm-to-table café, artisan gifts, and bike rentals for the New River Trail. Guests can enjoy Southern hospitality, homemade meals, and community events throughout the year. The Merc serves as a cultural hub in the region.
Radford University Planetarium
On clear evenings or rainy afternoons, the Radford Planetarium offers free public shows on astronomy and science. Visitors can view star projections, learn about galaxies, and experience immersive presentations. The planetarium adds curiosity and wonder to your trip.
Wilderness Road Regional Museum
Located in nearby Newbern, this museum highlights the region’s frontier history with exhibits on early settlers, native tribes, and Appalachian life. The buildings include original 19th-century structures and a gift shop with handmade crafts. Guided tours and seasonal reenactments bring history to life.
Rock House Marina
This full-service marina and grill near the lake’s western end offers boat rentals, live music, and waterfront dining. Guests can fuel up their boats, grab a burger, and enjoy cold drinks on the patio. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, and family-oriented. Rock House is a social hub for lake-goers.
Ingles Castle (Radford)
A striking piece of local history, Ingles Castle was built in the late 1800s and sits on a bluff overlooking the New River. While it’s not always open to the public, the view from nearby trails is stunning. The castle reflects Radford’s unique architectural past. It adds mystique and elegance to a local tour.
Where to find a vacation rental near Claytor Lake State Park
Roanoke, Virginia
Just over an hour northeast, Roanoke is a lively Blue Ridge city known for its mountain views, railway history, and blossoming arts scene. Visitors can hike Mill Mountain, admire regional art at the Taubman Museum, or shop the historic Roanoke City Market. Staying in a vacation rental in Roanoke, such as a craftsman home or mountain-view cottage, adds cultural flair and city comforts to Claytor Lake’s calm.
Blacksburg, Virginia
Only 30 minutes north, Blacksburg combines academic energy with scenic tranquility as the home of Virginia Tech. From Hokies games and horticulture gardens to trail walks and breweries, there’s no shortage of vibrancy. Resting in a vacation rental in Blacksburg, like a wooded retreat or student-adjacent cottage, brings a youthful and dynamic spirit to your Claytor Lake experience.
Floyd, Virginia
About an hour southeast, Floyd charms with its music traditions, creative community, and Blue Ridge Parkway access. Known for the Friday Night Jamboree at the Floyd Country Store, this town celebrates local heritage and handcrafted living. A stay in a vacation rental in Floyd, perhaps an artist cottage or mountain-view cabin, deepens your connection to Appalachian roots and scenic serenity.
Abingdon, Virginia
Roughly two hours southwest, Abingdon is a cultural treasure blending history, theater, and outdoor recreation. Visitors explore the Barter Theatre, stroll the Virginia Creeper Trail, and enjoy galleries and cafés downtown. Choosing a house in Abingdon, from a countryside retreat to a stately in-town manor, adds richness and variety to a Claytor Lake itinerary.
Lewisburg, West Virginia
Just under two hours northwest, Lewisburg offers elegance in a mountain setting with historic landmarks, performances at Carnegie Hall, and access to the Greenbrier River Trail. Settling into a vacation rental in Lewisburg, like a colonial-style home or garden cottage, brings a peaceful sophistication to your journey. Its charm complements the natural rhythm of Claytor Lake beautifully.
Explore the natural allure of America’s diverse landscapes
At Claytor Lake State Park, immerse yourself in lush greenery and picturesque landscapes that encapsulate Virginia's natural beauty. As you explore the region, consider expanding your adventure to other breathtaking natural locales. Opt for a stay with Kennewick airbnb, where you can explore the pristine trails of the Chamna Natural Preserve. In Michigan, airbnb in Ludington offers access to the stunning Ludington State Park with its dunes, forests, and beachfronts. Meanwhile, adventurers near Watkins Glen will find rentals in Watkins Glen the perfect base for exploring the awe-inspiring Watkins Glen State Park and its impressive gorges. Alternatively, head to the Pacific Northwest where rentals near Long Beach WA open pathways to the picturesque Cape Disappointment State Park and its historic lighthouse.
Encounter the tranquil allure of American lakeside destinations. Beyond the inviting waters of Claytor Lake itself, venture out to discover exceptional lakeside retreats. Consider vacation rentals in Island Park for an intimate stay near the spectacular vistas of Henry's Fork in Idaho. Embrace nature's harmony at airbnb in Alexandria MN, where you can explore the Chain of Lakes in Minnesota. Experience the majestic beauty of the Sierra Nevada with North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals, where the area brims with opportunities for water sports and mountain adventures.