Lake Anna State Park Beach Access
This 13,000-acre lake stays warmer than most Virginia waters thanks to the North Anna Nuclear Station’s thermal discharge. The state park’s sandy beach area offers swimming, while the boat ramp handles everything from kayaks to bass boats. The lake’s warm water extends the swimming season into late fall. Several fishing piers dot the shoreline, and the lake is known for excellent striped bass and largemouth bass fishing.
Park entry requires a fee but includes beach access, bathhouses, and picnic areas. The nuclear plant’s cooling intake creates a no-swim zone on the hot side, but the cold side offers pristine water. Best fishing occurs near the thermocline where warm and cool waters meet.
Nuclear-warmed swimming lake in central Virginia
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 250 ft |
| Nearest town | Fredericksburg, Virginia |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Full |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $7.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Drinking water, Picnic table, Toilets, Trash service |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
