John H. Kerr Dam & Reservoir, also known as Buggs Island Lake, is a 50,000-acre lake extending 39 miles up the Roanoke River along 800 miles of wooded, cove-studded shoreline in Virginia and North Carolina. Visitors enjoy fishing, camping, swimming, boating or just relaxing and enjoying the scenic beauty. There are 30
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (434) 738-6143
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you swim here?
Yes — swimming is available at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir. There are typically no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and check conditions.
Yes Can you camp at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Saint Leon Road, Public Fishing Walkway, Nature Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
MadeYourReadThis / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Falls Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
NPS/J. Inge National Park Service Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
