Relax at Lake Thompson

Delaplane, Virginia

Description

A mountain lake in the G.R. Thompson Wildlife Management area that offers walking trails and fishing.

Lake Thompson is a great spot for fishing, walking, or just exploring the area with your dog. I've never had a problem with parking, but you're unlikely to find yourself alone at the lake on a nice weekend day. Its a 10-acre lake, however, so you shouldn't have a problem carving out a little bit of your own space to fish and kick back. Keep an eye on the status of the lake, as the last time I was down there it had been drained (it has since filled to its capacity).

If you're coming from DC, take 66 West and then take exit 18 to (Route 688) at Markham, VA. Travel north on Route 688 for about 4 miles, you'll eventually see the lake on your left.

Lots of nearby vineyards, so check one of those out on your way back to the city!

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin

Fishing

Photography

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Lake

Scenic

Relax at Lake Thompson Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Trail Run the AT in the G.R. Thompson

Take Fire Trail Road and start your run at the parking area (labeled in the map). The trail puts you directly onto the AT, where you will turn right (southbound) to start the run (or hike). You'll stay on the AT for roughly 3.5 miles down to the Trillium Trail Parking area. At that point, turn around and head back. (7 miles total) Its dog friendly, so don't forget to bring along your pup!

Snowshoe the AT in G.R. Thompson

The G.R. Thompson is a piece of public land in Linden, VA, thats primarily used by hunters. The Appalachian Trail runs right through this section and visiting during a fresh snowfall can make for a great adventure. Only 60 minutes drive from greater Washington DC area, this is an easy adventure! Distance is completely up to you, based on your tolerance for the cold, and how much you're wanting ...

Camp at Sky Meadows State Park

Camping at Sky Meadows State Park is a great location to backpack with young kids or if you are new to backpacking. The campground has 18 primitive walk-in campsites located 1.03 miles from the overnight parking lot at the park entrance. Reservations can be made online. After checking-in and parking in the overnight parking lot, head into the park to pick up the easy trail to the campground. Th...

Hike to the Piedmont Overlook

In just a .61 mile trail, Piedmont Overlook has so much to offer in terms of views and although it is fairly steep, anyone can do it! After arriving at Sky Meadows State Park start heading up to the white park office building, this is where the trail begins. To get to the trail head follow Boston Mills Road for about 400 ft until you see the post with the Piedmont Overlook arrow pointing you ...

Hike to Hollow Brook Falls

This hike will start on the Appalachian Trail and will take you to a beautiful set of falls. When you arrive at the location you will see numerous spots along the side of the road to park. You'll need to look for the white blaze for the Appalachian Trail (it will head up from the parking area). The trail will initially head up a ridge from the parking area. After a short stroll you'll start h...

Explore Skyline Caverns

Skyline Caverns is located right off Stonewall Jackson Highway with plenty of parking. The cave tour is about 60 minutes with little walking and minimal elevation gain. If you time it right you and your friends can get the whole tour to yourselves. The backstory the tour guide gives you, is interesting and the views of the cave are amazing. Be sure to bring a light jacket and shoes that will n...