99 Free or Low Cost Things to Do at Smith Mountain Lake (2024)

The Smith Mountain Lake region offers a wealth of free and budget-friendly activities for residents and visitors of all ages.

From exciting water excursions to enriching cultural experiences, this insiders’ guide highlights 99 low cost or free things to do at Smith Mountain Lake, plus exciting bonus ideas in the surrounding region. Happy exploring!

There are four LOVEworks sculptures at Smith Mountain Lake and numerous others scattered around the region, including in Bedford, Rocky Mount, Boones Mill, Hurt and Altavista. These clever creations are part of the Virginia is for Lovers tourism campaign and make a great backdrop for your insta-worthy shots. Be sure to post using #loveva and #smlinsiders.

2. Feed the fish for Make-a-Wish

Visit Bridgewater Marina to buy $1 bags of popcorn to feed the huge, hungry carp that gather at the docks. All proceeds support Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia. This Smith Mountain Lake tradition dates back more than 30 years and is a favorite for all ages. You can stand on the docks and watch as the fish eagerly compete for the popcorn kernels.

3. Immerse yourself in history

Booker T. Washington National Monument is an expansive, interactive park dedicated to the famous African-American educator and statesman who was born into slavery on the property. Catch the introductory film, then walk easy, scenic trails that meander through the old farmstead (complete with farm animals) and along a babbling creek. For special events, tours are led by volunteers in period costumes. The park is free with donations accepted.

4. Escape to SML Community Park

Get in touch with nature at Smith Mountain Lake Community Park. The kids will love the colorful playground, easy walking trails and sandy beach for swimming. The beach is open only in season and there is a small charge for beach access. Kids under 3 are free. An inviting pavilion is perfect for a picnic and watching boats go by. It sits at the base of the extended fishing pier, which is handicap-accessible and features sturdy safety railings.

5. Connect with nature at SML State Park

While there is a small entry fee, pretty much all of the awesome programming at SML State Park is free, along with the hiking and biking trails and a fishing pier. You can also enjoy ranger-led hikes, as well as boat and canoe tours, junior ranger programs, fishing lessons, arts and crafts, nature expos, concerts and more.

6. Hike to the top of Smith Mountain

Explore the Smith Mountain Lake Cooperative Wildlife Trail/Management Area, owned by Appalachian Power, which offers numerous hiking options. Trails on either side of the Smith Mountain Project lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the dam and the lake. Insiders’ tip: Best hiking time is very early spring when views from the ridge trail are not blocked by vegetation and snakes are still hibernating.

7. Bolster your brain power

Satisfy your “How does it work?” curiosity and learn why the Smith Mountain Project is a fascinating renewable energy solution to the region’s power needs. The Vipperman Visitors Center overlooking the Smith Mountain Dam has hands-on exhibits and audio/visuals that illustrate how the dam was built nearly 60 years ago. It’s an enlightening excursion for all ages, with attractive picnic areas on the property.

8. Discover fresh finds a local farmers’ markets

A number of seasonal markets can be found around the Smith Mountain Lake region, including the Westlake Farmers’ Market, Moneta Farmers’ Market and Harvest Moon Marketplace. Park and browse free while trying to resist taking home at least a token haul of fresh fruits and veggies, jams, jellies and homemade baked goods.

9. Uncover the world of alpacas

For classic family entertainment, explore a local alpaca farm or retail shop. These agritourism spots offer a chance to learn about these gentle creatures and the importance of alpaca fabrics. Many farms in the area provide educational tours and fun activities for visitors of all ages.

10. Uncork some fun at local wineries

Smith Mountain Lake is home to five wineries that offer tastings as well as occasional events and live music: Hickory Hill Vineyards, Fables & Feathers Winery, Brooks Mill Winery, Ramulose Ridge Vineyards and Wind Vineyards. There are numerous others around the region if you’re up for venturing further out.

Explore Bridgewater Plaza

11. Sample fudge at Gifts Ahoy
12. Visit Fun ‘n Games Arcade
13. Climb the rock wall and play carnival games at Lucky Duck
14. Play a round at Harbortown Mini-golf
15. Snap a selfie with the giant moose at Moosie’s restaurant
16. Pick up magazines, brochures, maps and more at the SML Visitor Center

On-Water Activities

17. Embark on a wildlife-watching adventure
18. Swim at a sandy beach at one of SML’s islands
19. Fish off the pier at SML State Park or SML Community Park
20. Take a wildlife-spotting cruise
21. Worship at the Boat Church
22. Take a sightseeing tour on the Virginia Dare
23. Cruise to the Craddock Creek Lighthouse
24. Rent a paddleboard, canoe or kayak and enjoy leisurely paddle
25. Swim off the boat or float with a noodle in a quiet cove
26. Check out a sailing regatta in the spring and fall
27. Organize a boat raft up with friends in a secluded cove
28. Plan an outing to a lakeside eatery by boat or jetski
29. Take a sunset cocktail cruise
30. Stargaze by boat
31. Camp lakeside under the stars on an SML island
32. Boat to a section of the lake you’ve never been before
33. Organize a float-in at your dock or in a quiet cove
34. Wakeboard or wakesurf via cable at Blackwater Junction Wake Park
35. Track down the Ice Cream Boat for a tasty frozen treat

Off-Water Activities

36. Stop by SML Wines for free wine tastings from 4 to 6 p.m. every Friday
37. Check out the live music scene at one of SML’s many bars and restaurants
38. Attend a concert or event at Wind Vineyards
39. Visit a local distillery for a dose of spirits and history
40. Visit Moneta Park for hiking, biking, wildlife watching and disc golf
41. Pack a picnic and enjoy it lakeside at SML Community Park or SML State Park
42. Play putt-putt or throw axes at Hot Shots
43. Take your pup on one of SML’s dog-friendly hikes
44. Visit Spring Valley Farm for horse and camel rides and a petting zoo
45. Indulge in a creamy, frosty treat at Homestead Creamery in Burnt Chimney
46. Sneak in a workout at a local fitness facility
47. Join a pickleball group
48. Take a yoga class
49. Play cornhole on Tuesday nights at Hot Shots
50. Volunteer with a local charitable organization
51. Play classic lawn games such as badminton, croquet, jarts and bocce
52. Roast marshmallows lakeside
53. Take a class at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Educational Center
54. Pamper yourself with a manicure, pedicure, facial or massage
55. Sign the kids up for a local vacation bible school
56. Join one of the many clubs and organizations around SML such as the SML Photo Club, SML Newcomers, Rotary Club, Lions Club and Civitan Club
57. Spend some time cleaning up along the shoreline
58. Attend a sports, music or theatrical event at SML Christian Academy
59. Test your knowledge at a trivia night at one of our local watering holes, including Mango’s Bar & Grill and Magnum Point Marina
60. Tee it up at one of SML’s two public golf courses, Copper Cove and Mariners Landing
61. Play Texas Hold’em on Thursday nights at Hot Shots
62. Catch a free family flick at SML/Moneta Library

Arts and Culture

63. Take in the latest movies at Westlake Cinema
64. See working artists in action at Art Visions Gallery & Studio
65. Experience live music at The Coves Amphitheater
66. Visit the Emerson Creek Pottery outlet store
67. Attend a concert by local musicians such as the SML Steel Drum Band, SML Harmeneers, SML Boomer Band, Lakeside Strummers and Lakeside Singers
68. Join one of the many book clubs at the lake and/or the Lake Writers, part of the Smith Mountain Arts Council (SMAC)
69. Attend the annual SMAC Art Show
70. Sign kids up for the SMAC Arts Camp
71. Get your groove on at a SMAC coffeehouse featuring members of the Southwest Virginia Songwriters Association
72. Catch a drama or comedy performance by The Lake Players
73. Sing or just enjoy the fun at a karaoke night at Mango’s, Hot Shots or Portside
74. Check out the lineup at the Harvester Performance Center (not inexpensive but occasionally hosts free or low-cost concerts)

Smith Mountain Lake Events

Find details on Smith Mountain Lake events here and here.

75. SML Business Expo (April)
76. Portside BBQ Battle (May)
77. SML Triathlon (May)
78. Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run (May)
79. Portside Island Jam (June)
80. SMLA’s A Day at the Lake (June)
81. Lake Quilters Guild Quilt Show (June)
82. Hook, Lines and Singers Songwriters Festival Open Mic Competition (May-June)
83. Smith Mountain Arts Council Expo (May)
84. Juneteenth Celebration (June)
85. Independence Day fireworks and festivities (July)
86. Beastlake 5K and Obstacle Course (July)
87. Pirate Days (July)
88. Labor Day weekend concert and fireworks at EastLake Community Church (September)
89. SML Antique and Classic Boat Show (September)
90. SML Walk to End Poverty (September)
91. SML Wine Festival (September)
92. SML Charity Home Tour (October)
93. SML Fall Chili and Craft Festival (November)
94. SML Lighted Boat Parade (November)
95. SML Turkey Trot (November)
96. Santa Around Bridgewater Plaza (November)
97. Bedford Festival of Trees (December)
98. Come Home to a Franklin County Christmas (December)
99. Bedford Christmas Parade (December)

BONUS IDEAS

Explore Bedford

100. Hike the Peaks of Otter or Falling Creek Park
101. Visit a pumpkin patch (fall) or an orchard for pick-your-own fruit (spring and summer)
102. Explore Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s summer home
103. Tap into the Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail
104. Visit quaint art galleries, retail stores and antique shops in the downtown area
105. Pay tribute to our soldiers at the National D-Day Memorial and the Bedford Boys Tribute Center
106. Explore the 60-acre Liberty Lake Park for walking trails, playgrounds, a skate park and fishing pond
107. Visit the Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library
108. Attend a performance of the Little Town Players

Explore Rocky Mount

109. Visit the Rocky Mount Farmers’ Market
110. Explore Waid Park for scenic hiking, disc golf, a bike skills loop, fishing, a kayak/canoe launch, playground and picnic shelter
111. Hike the Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve’s 6.6 miles of easy trails
112. Visit the Franklin County History Museum
113. Check out the town’s vibrant music scene at venues such as The Alley Cat and Living Proof Beer Company
114. Discover one-of-a-kind craft cocktails behind the hidden door at Anastasia’s Speakeasy

Venture Farther Out

115. Cruise the incredibly scenic Blue Ridge Parkway
116. Delve into the history of traditional Appalachian music by driving the Crooked Road Music Trail
117. Tour the Blue Ridge Institute and Farm Museum in Ferrum
118. Explore the Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville
119. Visit Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park
120. Check out the Science Museum of Western Virginia, Hopkins Planetarium, Center in the Square, Mill Mountain Theater and the Pinball Museum in Downtown Roanoke
121. Head to Lynchburg to visit Amazement Square and the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Center