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The John W. Flannagan Day Use Area boasts an expansive lake nestled in the rolling green Cumberland Mountains of southwest Virginia, offering visitors an oasis of recreation in the summer months. The nearby dam, built primarily for flood control for the Cranesnest and Pound Rivers, creates a breathtaking lake that is maintained at nearly 1,400 feet above sea level.
This day-use facility is an ideal spot for picnicking, water activities, and hiking.
The John W. Flannagan Dam, completed in 1964, carves out a 1,145-acre lake with nearly 40 miles of beautiful shoreline in the lush Virginia terrain.
Flannagans reputation as a fishermans paradise is well-known. Visitors can enjoy secluded coves of deep, clean water that are well-stocked with bass, bream, walleye and trout. Boating, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and biking top the long list of activities available nearby.
Picnic shelters with grills, electrical hookups, a playground, and horseshoe pits provide an ideal location for parties and other get-togethers.
The Lower Twin, Cranes Nest and Pound River Campgrounds, located near the day-use area, offer overnight camping.
Breaks Interstate Park is nearby, offering lodging, dining, a museum, gift shop, rafting, canoeing, and other outdoor activities.
From VA-63, turn right onto State Route 614. Continue straight for approximately two miles.
This lake is about 45 minutes away from Breaks Interstate Park. There's plenty of parking and a dock that you can fish off of. If you plan on fishing you'll have better luck from the water vs the shore. The lake itself is clean, crystal clear, and warm in August. Different rock formations line the shores but we couldn't find any place to do some rock diving. There's no beach at the boat ramp but if you paddle left for 45 mins or so you'll run into an sandy island that you can dock off of and swim around. Bring a snorkling mask because the visibility is amazing. We saw some deer drinking from the shore and snakes sitting in holes. Ultimately we spent 4 to 5 hours on the lake and had a nice picnic. If your nearby on a hot day give this place a shot.
It's a beautiful place .. Kids and adults... Its changed so much... Still a great place for families and fun
A wonderful space I've enjoyed my whole life. It's a favorite fishing hole with grills, picnic shelters and playground.
Very neat and super clean area. Restrooms were dated but super clean. The women's restroom even smelled clean. They have many picnic tables with nice grills beside them. There are covered spots as well. Swings and playground were newer and in excellent condition. Creek was just the perfect amount of noisy! I could have stayed longer.
