Description
Elevation: 2542 ft.
Rural Retreat Lake is a relatively large lake surrounded by hardwood forest and reedy marshland. It is accessible from several areas along its southern and eastern shores. Facilities include a boat ramp, camping, and picnic areas. A trail follows the southern shore of the lake ending at the dam. In summer, the area is prolific with nesting wetland species including red-winged blackbird, and green heron in the swampier sections. The lake itself offers prime habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl in winter and migration. The occasional osprey and bald eagle are fairly common and can be seen virtually any time of year. The forested areas, composed of a mixture of oak, maple, and pine, attract an interesting array of songbirds. Fields near the lake host some of the few bobolink nesting in Wythe County. Look for these jewels in longer grass that hasn’t been harvested or on roadside telephone wires, especially near the intersection of Rt. 615 and Rt. 679.
Note: To access the site, a Restore the Wild Membership, Virginia hunting license, freshwater fishing license, boat registration, or an access permit is required.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Rural Retreat Lake (as reported to eBird)
- Canada Goose
- Mallard
- Common Merganser
- Rock Pigeon
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Northern Flicker
- American Crow
- Carolina Chickadee
- Tufted Titmouse
- Eastern Bluebird
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Camping
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Boat Ramp
Maps & Directions
From Wytheville, head south on US-11/Lee Hwy, turn left onto N. Main St. in Rural Retreat, continue straight onto SR-749/Cedar Springs Rd, turn right onto SR-677/Rural Retreat Lake Rd, turn left onto SR-778/Lake Rd, and follow it to the DWR boat ramp parking area.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.