If you’re a resident of North Carolina, you are probably aware that our state boasts a unique quality of mountain-to-sea geography. However, in addition to beautiful beaches and mesmerizing mountainscapes, North Carolina proudly contains other exciting destinations – lakes! One particular lake, roughly 40 miles due north of Wake Forest, is easily considered a destination of both North Carolina and neighboring Virginia. With more than 350 miles of shoreline, over 20,000 acres of surface area, a multitude of activities, and a rich history, the sprawling stunner that is Lake Gaston is surely an exciting “Driveable Destination” awaiting your arrival.

Lake Gaston, often referred to by locals as “LKG,” is one of the largest lakes in our state. Being roughly 34 miles long and stretching across five counties (three in North Carolina and two in Virginia), LKG is not only an integral part of our state’s ecosystem, but maintains a prolific impact on economy, culture, and history. As with any body of water, Lake Gaston is connected to several other bodies of water. The Dan River, coursing from the mountains of Virginia, and the Roanoke River, flowing from the North Carolina mountains, meet at the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir in Boydton, VA, forming Gaston’s kin, Kerr Lake. The Kerr Dam was completed in 1953 for purposes of flood control, and is backed on its east end by the Lake Gaston Dam, built 10 years later. The Lake Gaston Dam was constructed by Virginia Electric Power Company to generate electricity for LKG’s owner, Dominion Energy, according to the Lake Gaston Guide. The dam is still in use today, and Dominion Energy shares that its hydroelectric power supports a staggering 55,000 homes. In addition to providing electricity, the Lake Gaston Dam has another major outcome – Lake Gaston itself!

I’ve been visiting Lake Gaston since I was a child, and have built countless memories that I’ll never forget. Many of CIRCA’s readers may already be familiar with Lake Gaston as well. However, as I dove into my research for this article, I became more and more intrigued with what I had seemed to overlook throughout the years – Gaston’s multitudinous contributions to our society. To start off, I’ve always been aware of the Eaton Ferry Bridge, which crosses through the center of LKG. The bridge and marina are landmarks that my family uses to measure distances on the lake. You know, like: “It’s about 10 minutes from Eaton Ferry by boat.” But what I didn’t know was that in the mid-1800s, people pulled a ferry across the Roanoke River, Gaston’s predecessor, according to the Lake Gaston Guide. Later, in the early 1900s, a man named Charles Eaton built a ferry to cross the river in order to connect Virginia and North Carolina by tugboat – hence the name “Eaton Ferry.” I found it so interesting that a location I’ve known for years, and of which I have such fond memories – dining at nearby restaurants, watching swimming catfish, and socializing with friendly locals – had such an alluring history. And this is only one of the fundamental spots that makes Gaston the unique and captivating destination that it is.

I previously mentioned a marina; Lake Gaston has not one, not three, but five public marinas, and seven public boat ramps. Additionally, the Lake Gaston Public Day Use Area (2369 Jack Brown Road, Littleton, NC) entertains a fishing pier, boat ramp, public swimming area, and reservable picnic area, according to the Lake Gaston Chamber. Furthermore, there are multiple local businesses and rental companies at Lake Gaston to charter boats, housing, watersport equipment, and jet skis in order for you to get a feel for the lively Lake Gaston lifestyle. Or rather, if camping suits your fancy, take advantage of one of the lake’s RV parks or campgrounds. So whether you’d like to discover Lake Gaston’s adventures for a quick and easy day trip, or you’d like to spend several days enjoying all that lake life has to offer, Gaston’s got you covered.

In regards to Lake Gaston being “quick and easy,” I’m not kidding! Being located essentially directly north of the Triangle on the Virginia/North Carolina border, a getaway to Gaston is practically effortless. The Lake Gaston Chamber provides some standard routes for driving, including, but not limited to: I-85 to I-95 and crossing Eaton Ferry Bridge, or intersection of U.S. 158 and NC 903 to NC-VA state boundary line. From where I live in Wake Forest to where I visit at Lake Gaston is right at one hour, making for a fast and painless vacation. Plan your travel route before you head to the lake to ensure an all-around smooth and safe trip.

Still wondering what to do once you actually arrive at Lake Gaston? Look no further! For the action-lover, there’s waterskiing, knee-

boarding, wakeboarding, or jet skiing. Not sure about high-speed fun but still love the water? Try paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and pontoon boat rides. If you’d rather relax and enjoy Gaston’s gorgeous views, watch sunrises and sunsets, visit one of the area’s golf courses, or observe LKG’s natural wildlife (bonus

points if you see a beautiful blue heron). Fishing is a popular activity as well; Lake Gaston is chock full of striped bass / rockfish, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and other varieties of catfish (just be sure to check out fishing license requirements). And try one of the many great local restaurants such as The Pointe at Lake Gaston, WatersView Restaurant, or Shady Shack Grill and Flip Flops Bar for a fun, laidback lake experience. Or, if you’re in search of more of an upscale meal, visit one of Gaston’s resorts for a bit of a fancier environment.

It’s not hard to see that Lake Gaston has something for everyone, regardless of interests. That’s why LKG is the perfect “driveable destination” – it’s easy to get to, is brimming with fun for the whole family, and is sure to deliver memories that will last a lifetime. With a riveting history, a spectacular array of activities, and an integral role in the vitality of the area, Lake Gaston certainly has a lot to discover. From sensational sunrises and sunsets, to wild water activities, to calming cruises with family or friends, or lively local restaurants, Lake Gaston has it all … and it’s right there awaiting your arrival.

Note: As of press time, many facilities at Lake Gaston were beginning to reopen during their designated phases of NC’s COVID-19 response. However, please check that any operations you intend to use/visit are open, and that you are aware of any required safety policies.