Start Early
Plan long crossings for early morning when winds are calmer and visibility is best.
Edge of the Quiet: Paddle, Camp and Fish Lake Moomaw
2 to 4 days Camping — Primitive shorelines, glassy paddles, and multi-species fishing
Goshen, Virginia•By Robert Eric Crews•Camping Overnight,Water Activities,Fishing,Land Adventures,Wildlife Nature•September•summer
Continue ReadingYou pull the kayak free of the truck tailgate before dawn, the lake a sheet of obsidian that refuses to stir. Mist unravels in ribbons where the cooler night meets first light; a lone osprey slices that quiet with a shadow and a shriek. The shoreline here doesn’t submit to development—42 miles of raw edge backed by shadowed ridges—so the first sound you hear after the birds is your own paddle. This is Lake Moomaw: a mountain reservoir where the lakeshore dares you to set camp on a spit of sand and sleep under more stars than your phone will show you.
DurationHalf day to multi-day (2–4 days typical)
Trail Wisdom
Trail Wisdom
Layer For Water
Bring synthetic base layers and a waterproof splash jacket—temperatures can change quickly on the water.
Reserve Campsites
Primitive sites fill quickly—book through recreation.gov in advance to secure preferred locations.
Float Plan
Leave a detailed route and return time with someone ashore; cell coverage is patchy in coves.
Local Knowledge
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- The small sandy beach near Coles Point for sunset paddles
- A narrow cedar-draped cove east of the dam that often holds quiet fishing spots
Wildlife
Bald eagle, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Stick to designated campsites, pack out all waste, and avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation; minimizing campfire impact protects fragile lakeshore ecosystems.
Lake Moomaw was formed by the construction of Gathright Dam in 1979 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and now encompasses roughly 2,500 surface acres and 42 miles of shoreline.
Seasonal Guide
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for:Wildflowers and migrating songbirds, Cool-water fishing, Fewer crowds
Challenges:Cold surface water temperatures, Higher water levels and stronger currents
Spring brings high, chilly water and vivid forest green—expect brisk mornings and active wildlife.
summer
Best for:Warm-water swimming and paddling, Family camping, Long daylight hours
Challenges:Breezy afternoons and more boat traffic, Higher overnight temperatures at campsites
Summer is the busiest season with warm water and long days—plan for sun protection and early crossings to avoid afternoon wind.
fall
Best for:Leaf color on ridgelines, Clear, crisp paddling conditions, Excellent fishing
Challenges:Cool nights require warm sleeping gear, Shortening daylight hours
Fall balances comfortable paddling temperatures with spectacular color—nights can be cold, so pack warm layers.
winter
Best for:Solitude and stark scenery, Ice-fishing for experienced locals
Challenges:Most services close and campsites can be inaccessible, Hypothermia risk and ice hazards
Winter trips are for experienced cold-weather paddlers—expect limited services and possible ice at the shoreline.
Photographer's Notes
Photographer's Notes
Shoot low from the kayak to catch reflective water and shoreline symmetry; use a polarizing filter for richer skies and reduced glare, and aim for golden-hour paddles at dawn or dusk for the best light.
What to Bring
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
EssentialNon-negotiable for safety on open water and required by outfitters.
Large Dry Bag (60–120L)
EssentialProtects sleeping bag and clothing from splash and rain at primitive campsites.
Splash Jacket & Quick-Dry Layers
EssentialLightweight protection against wind, spray, and variable mountain weather.
12V Pump (if using inflatable SUP)
Speeds setup for inflatables; outfitters often provide pumps but bringing a spare is handy.
Common Questions
Common Questions
What to Pack
What to Pack
PFD (safety), Large dry bag (keep gear dry), Quick-dry layers and rain shell (variable weather), Water treatment or ample drinking water (no reliable potable sources)
Did You Know
Did You Know
Lake Moomaw’s shoreline stretches about 42 miles and the lake covers roughly 2,500 surface acres following completion of Gathright Dam in 1979.
Quick Travel Tips
Quick Travel Tips
Reserve Forest Service campsites early; plan crossings for morning; fuel up and stock snacks in Covington before heading to the lake; expect intermittent cell service
Local Flavor
Local Flavor
After a day on the water, head to nearby Covington for pub fare and local craft beer or stop in Goshen for classic mountain diner plates; stock up at the convenience store on the way to the lake for last-minute supplies.
Logistics Snapshot
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airportGreenbrier Valley (LWB) or Roanoke (ROA); Nearest town: Covington (~30–40 minutes’ drive); Driving distance from Covington: ~30–45 minutes to trailheads; Cell service: intermittent—expect patchy reception in coves; Permits: Reserve lakeshore primitive campsites via recreation.gov
Sustainability Note
Sustainability Note
The lakeshore is sensitive—pack out all trash, use established campsites and fire rings when allowed, and avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation to protect nesting and spawning habitat.
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