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This colossal lake is a sight to behold. The surrounding forested mountains appear to just drop into the lake, making for scenery reminiscent of majestic paintings by the late Bob Ross. The lake should be checked during migration and winter for waterfowl. At other times of the year, it could host great blue and green herons and, on occasion, a bald eagle or osprey may drop in to pick out a bass for dinner. The neighboring hillsides are heavily wooded and host many woodland birds. Pileated woodpeckers can be heard as their loud raucous call reverberates across the lake. American goldfinch twitter overhead and ruffed grouse and wild turkey stalk the roadsides. Careful exploration is sure to reward the butterfly enthusiast; tiger and spicebush swallowtail, question mark, silver-spotted skipper, and American painted lady have been spotted here. There is little reason to doubt why they frequent this site as Black Eyed Susan, milkweed, wild columbine, and Queen Anne’s lace abound.
Note that because this lake serves as the main water supply for surrounding towns, swimming and gas motorboating are prohibited. Camping is restricted to areas further down Skidmore Fork Rd/Switzer Lake Rd with less accessible sites past the second river crossing. Be sure to secure any food overnight as black bears are known to frequent campsites in this area.
Beautiful, Quiet and No cell service. Perfect place to go camping or even just exploring. As mentioned earlier, there is no cell service so plan accordingly. Went on a Friday night into Saturday and wasn't packed at all.
Nice area, in the forest, just off Highway 33, just inside the Virginia state line.
I absolutely loved looking out over the lake not to mention the road to get there adds an extra little charm that just makes it one of the best lakes to just get in your car and arrive at.
Switzer Lake is a hidden gem in the George Washington National Forest, near the border of Virginia and West Virginia. It is a stunning lake surrounded by forested mountains, offering a serene and scenic escape from the city. There are also hiking trails nearby.
There are multiple campsites with fire rings. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
To get to the lake, you need to take Skidmore Fork Road off of US 33, which is a dirt road. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to the bottom, where the best campsites are. There are also some pull-offs along the road where you can park and walk to the lake.
Switzer Lake is a beautiful destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience paradise.
