Kayak/Paddle Board and Open Water Swim at Lake Anna State Park

Lake Anna State Park is a state park located in Spotsylvania County in Virginia. Initially the site of the Goodwin Gold Mine – gold was first discovered at the site in 1829 – the land later played host to Lake Anna, a reservoir created to serve as a coolant for Dominion Power's nearby nuclear power plant.

The park has a beach on one of Virginia's most popular lakes, a fishing pond accessible to children and the disabled, a bathhouse-concessions complex and a boat launch. Overnight stays are made possible by camping, six camping cabins, four yurts, two six-bedroom lodges and 10 two-bedroom cabins. With more than 15 miles of trails, the park offers many hiking, biking and horseback riding options. Visitor center exhibits trace the history of the area's gold mining and highlight the park's natural features. Nature and gold panning programs are popular, See https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/lake-anna.

We'll go out for a couple of hours around an island and into Ware Cove. Have lunch on the water and return to the boat ramp. For those people who wish to open water swim, they will have their boating buddy tow their boat and follow behind them acting as a safety responder. After boating, optional stop for refreshments at Lake Anna Cream and Caffeine, 208 Lake Front Drive, Mineral (https://creamandcaffeine.com).

Disclaimer: GetHiking Charlottesville Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were boating or swimming alone. With your RSVP, you agree with this disclaimer.

Weather: (as of 6/1/2026)
High 81F, sunny.

Notes:
1. Cost - $7 parking admission.
2. Mandatory Equipment: PFD (personal flotation device) and whistle.
3. Suggested packing list:
a. Kayak or paddle board with paddle.
b. Swimsuit, towel, change of clothes/footwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, lunch/water, waterproof bag, water shoes/sandals, and swim buoy.
4. Any cancellation notice or date change will be posted a few days before the event.

Rules on the water:

1. No alcohol or glass bottle/container;
2. Wear life jacket;
3. Assign buddy system;
4. Maintain safe distances: no greater than 25 ft between buddies and 50 ft between groups);
5. Use of whistle:
6. a. 1 long blast- stop in place;
   b. 2 short blasts- all clear, continue;
   c. 3 short blasts- emergency (stop, assess, assist).
7. Check experience/swim level;
8. Check for equipment: PFD, whistle, water.