Description

NOTICE: Hearthstone Lake is temporarily inaccessible by vehicle due to the closure of Tillman Rd on either side of the lake for structural renovations to the dam. Anticipated completion of this project is at the end of summer 2019. There is a pull off area near (38.396267, -79.156236) before the closure on Tillman Rd which connects to an old road/walking trail through the woods and down to the lake. 

Elevation: 1805 ft.

Hearthstone Lake is a 7-acre impoundment in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests managed for angling opportunities, while its woodland surroundings provide a relaxing setting to search for wildlife. The lake itself supports a variety of wetland-associated species. Look for great blue heron, wood duck, belted kingfisher and the occasional bald eagle. The nearby woodland supports anticipated songbirds with eastern wood-pewee and red-eyed vireo calling throughout the summer. Check the open areas around the lake for breeding field sparrows in summer. The lake is also worth checking for dragonflies. Widow skimmer, eastern pondhawk, eastern amberwing and common green darner all occur.

Directions

Location: end of Tillman Rd, West Augusta, VA 24485

Coordinates: 38.39526, -79.16359

From Harrisonburg, travel south on VA-42 for 11 miles. Turn right onto State Rte 747 and continue as it twists and turns 6.9 miles. Stay straight as State Rte 747 becomes State Rte 730, then becomes State Rte 763, then becomes State Rte 718. Make a slight right at Fr 95. Continue onto Tillman Rd. In 1.4 miles, turn left to stay on Tillman Rd. Follow to lake.