SML’s water level exceeds full amount | Local News | smithmountaineagle. Smith Mountain Lake was formed in the 1960s as a power generation project of Appalachian Power, part of American Electric Power (AEP). The headwaters of Leesville Lake is a very harsh environment for most fish species due to the cold water temperatures, fast water currents, and poor forage resources. History of the Smith Mountain Dam. SML Walk to End Poverty: 5K and 10K walk and run to benefit Lake Christian Ministries at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. on March 7, 1966, the lake reaches 795 feet above sea level (full pond) for the first time. m. 908 at 2072 Ford Rd. W80°. the flow rate at the usgs gauge at brookneal was 721 cfs, stage 4. In. Dining. Trips Alerts Sign inSmith Mountain Project, Sandy Level, Virginia. this is a good beach to take your smaller kids to enjoy a swim. Dams. Owned and operated by American Electric Power, the dam provides hydro-electric power for Virginia and surrounding states. With over 500 miles of wonderfully scenic waterfront property. Show prices. Login/Register; Home; What’s New. Smith Mountain Dam was completed in 1963, damming the Roanoke River to create what is now Smith Mountain Lake. Adjacent docks with opposing slips share the same fairway. Beginning in 1584, explorers under the. Smith Mountain Lake is one of the favorite attractions in the area. Everyone gathers to watch amateurs and professionals compete on the water. What is biting at Smith Mountain Lake? Black bass (largemouth and smallmouth bass) are the most sought after species by anglers at Smith Mountain Lake. Construction of the dam began in 1960 and took a crew of 200 six years to move the 300,000 cubic yards of earth and forest to make room. Smith Mountain Dam closed the gap completely in 1963, and Smith Mountain Lake began to fill and form behind it. Temperature depth profiles for Smith Mountain Lake in 2020. The Visitors Center gives a great historical account of the lake's formation and the building of the dam, as well as an educational explanation of how the dam produces electrical power to the surrounding counties. Abstract and Figures. , Moneta VA 24121 • (540) 296-0500 AllSizeStorageBedford. Additionally, there is a picnic area on Leesville Lake below the dam that is open to the public daily. The Smith Mountain Dam project was built at the point where the river cut throu. 18th annual Smith Mountain Lake Chili Festival, Bridgewater Plaza, Moneta. However, the dam's construction did not begin until 1960. 93 mi) Bedford Landings Bed & Breakfast, LLC (1. York. As the waters backed up to create Smith Mountain Lake, many islands appeared. Also near the park are the Booker T. Wakeboarding. 8 miles upstream from the alpine glacial limit. That is a 28-mile roundtrip. Source: 2265524729 / shutterstock Smith Mountain Lake. This reservoir is one of Virginia’s premier fisheries, offering outstanding fishing and other recreational opportunities. 7. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. The majority of the south shore of the lake lies in FraSmith Mountain Lake State Park: What a gorgeous park and campground - See 107 traveler reviews, 86 candid photos, and great deals for Huddleston, VA, at Tripadvisor. Smith Mountain Lake Cooperative Wildlife Management Trail. Several cabins are also available for rent that can provide an ideal setting for those looking to enjoy nature or spend time with family or friends. 83'. Fortunately for beer and wine enthusiasts, Smith Mountain Lake is surrounded by several top-notch breweries and vineyards, some close by and all within driving distance. Smith Mountain Lake and its little sister Leesville Lake were created as a package. In Lynchburg, College Lake dam is listed in fair condition, but an extreme weather event in 2018 caused downstream residents to evacuate their homes when a storm dropped several inches of rain on the city in less than an hour. This is a huge lake with lots to do: boat, fish, swim, water ski, and hike. Effective 11/17/2023 at 05:05. The Smith Mountain Lake level can fluctuate up to two feet before Leesville Lake becomes full. As the 2nd largest lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake is a popular destination for visitors to Virginia's Blue Ridge and offers many great types of accommodations. Destination. It was created when Appalachian Power Company built a massive hydroelectric dam in the gap at Smith Mountain starting in 1963. 3. Dissolved oxygen depth profiles for Smith Mountain Lake in 2020. A detailed and delicate dance through history brought about SML. From $55/night - Compare 8 cabins & cabin vacation rentals in Smith Mountain Lake area! Find best cheap deals easily & save up to 70% with AirCabins. From Blue Ridge Parkway: Take Route 24 East exit to Stewartsville , and on to Rt 122 South. Dam construction began in 1960. Westlake Safari Miniature Golf off Virginia 616 and Hot Shots Family Fun Center off. These are a few tips to make sure new boaters. 1-2 people – $550; 3 people – $575; 4 people – $600; 5 people – $625; 6 people – $650; For Trips made in advance, I do require a deposit to reserve and secure the. Fatalities from boating related incidents also saw a slight drop statewide in 2021. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers. The operating range for Leesville is between 600 and 613 feet in elevation. The main channels of. Smith Mountain Lake came together from three tributaries: the Roanoke River, the Blackwater River and Gills Creek. Mitchell's Restaurant at Smith Mountain Lake is accessible by land or water. 7 oz. Feet MSL. Smith Mountain Lake is a large man-made lake (the largest lake contained entirely within Virginia, according to Wikipedia) nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to Roanoke, VA. Smith Mountain Lake Dam Stock Photos, Images & Pictures. And if that isn't enough, it's surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, making it one of the most popular and scenic destinations in Virginia. The Smith Mountain Visitor's Center overlooks the dam and is free and open to the public. 5/8/1962. Smith Mountain Dam Visitor's Center #2 of 3 things to do in Sandy Level 10 reviews. Smith Mountain Dam closed the gap completely in 1963, and Smith Mountain Lake began to fill and form behind it. The media manager of the utility company, American Electric Power, wanted to invite me and my wife as honored guests at a special July 9, 2016, celebration. The decision to increase power generation at the Smith Mountain Lake Dam is made by PJM, an organization of which Appalachian Power is part of that operates the power grid in 13 states. The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Academy is now accepting applications for the Class of 2024. Entry and exit points are scattered throughout the park, with signs identifying each. Additionally, there is a picnic area on Leesville Lake below the dam that is open to the public daily. 1. The average depth of. From the moment you arrive, the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake surrounds and relaxes you in this 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom updated condo located on the manicured grounds of Bernard’s Landing. Smith Mountain Lake is the largest lake contained entirely within Virginia, with 20,600 acres and 500 miles of shoreline. Washington Highway Moneta 540-721-1203 Toll free 800-676-8203 With more than 500 miles of pristine shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is the jewel of the Blue Ridge. You can hike on either side of the Smith Mountain Dam, but both end up in spots overlooking the dam and the lake. $5 cover charge. Your Stripers Landing Condominium is a four season resort. 23, 1962. Easily apply *We are a growing company with lots of opportunities for people who love the hospitality industry. m. There is a picnic area located below the Smith Mountain Dam on Leesville Lake open to the public. At right, a closer look at the 71. By michaelaB3470SP. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Appalachian continues to monitor lake levels to determine if any triggers can be implemented. Cow Pie Bingo raises $10,000 for local student scholarships. 4 BR: LAKE ALLURE - Lake Front Home, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Fitness Area, Pet-Friendly. $230 - 1/2. 773 Ashmeade Rd, Moneta, VA 24121-3272 +1 540-346-2205 Website. Smith Mountain Damclosed the gap completely in 1963, and Smith Mountain Lakebegan to fill and form behind it. The terminal moraine is located to the south of Grand Lake and is mapped as glacial drift. Smith Mountain Gap, as seen July 15, 1960, was an isolated place surrounded by farmland when it was chosen as the site of an innovative hydroelectric plant built by Appalachian Power Co. Learn more. In 1960 at Smith Mountain Gap, construction began on what was to become Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain Lake is known as a recreation lover’s paradise, an ideal location for fishing, swimming, boating, tow sports, kayaking, paddle boarding and other fun things to do. This is the second year for the Runners face uphill battles in Dam 50K and 5KThe Smith Mountain Dam Visitor Center is open at various times; call 540-985-2587. There is a picnic area located below the Smith Mountain Dam on Leesville Lake open to the public every day. County Offices 40 East Court Street Rocky Mount 540-483-3030 Chamber of Commerce 16430 Booker T. Smith Mountain Lake Dam. The majority of the south shore of the lake lies in Franklin County whThe construction of a dam in the gap of Smith Mountain in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, had been considered as early as the 1920s. “ Beautiful lake ”. m. Appalachian’s project to rebury the dead and relocate the living cost the company between $150,000-$200,000. On September 24, 1963, the Smith Mountain Dam was closed and the lake began to form. A barrier preventing boaters from getting too close to the Smith Mountain Lake dam has flipped over into the water. The dam was built by Appalachian Power (a division of American Electric Power) between 1960 and 1963 for the purposes of pumped-storage hydroelectricity. Write a review Upload a photo. It’s 235 feet tall and 30 feet thick at the base and houses five hydroelectric. Smith Mountain Lake Tributary monitoring stations. This year, the Smith Mountain Lake community celebrated the 50th anniversary of the lake reaching full pond after the. 79 reviews. 751, where you’ll see a sign to Smith Mountain Dam. Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia is not man-made, but that’s alright – it's stunning all the same. Smith Mountain Lake encompasses over 40 miles, holds 20,000 acres of water, and is surrounded by 500 miles of shoreline. Leesville Lake has a maximum refill rate of 1. The Leesville Dam regulates the Smith Mountain Lake's outflows and. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Picnic Shelter - One shelter is available for rent. There are also outside pathways to get a close-up view of the dam and Smith Mountain. Unclaimed. The mountain area is covered with trees with lake access. 69 mi) Bedford Landings Bed & Breakfast, LLC (1. American Honey: Live music at Los Amigos Bar & Grill at Crazy Horse Marina. You’ll find it in central Virginia among the Blue Ridge Mountains; from Washington DC, it’s about four hours southwest. Smith Mountain Lake, which was created by the dam, is the largest lake contained entirely within the state of Virginia, and about 22,000 year-round residents now live along its shore. 2021. The Roanoke-Staunton River Power Company forms and kicks off plans to build a dam in the gap at Smith Mountain. The reservoir is owned by American Electric Power Company and is managed primarily for hydroelectric power. Smith Mountain Lake was created following the construction of a hydroelectric dam for Appalachian Power Company at the confluence of the Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers located at the base of Smith Mountain. Facebook. Overnight and other accommodations at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. 2-5 p. + Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Map. Dams. Or, you can let someone else take the reins during an old-fashioned carriage ride. 2021 . Smith Mountain Lake is a 20,600-acre impoundment located near Roanoke, Virginia. Follow Rt. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. ”. Questions & Answers. You can also catch special programs at the amphitheater or. 12 hrs ago; 0 +9. Dogs are able to be on the trail but must remain on a leash at all times. The two dams will form a hydroelectric power unit, with the smaller Leesville operation repumping water to the Smith Mountain Lake reservoir to be used again for power generation. m. Power generation was suspended at the dam as inspections were underway. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Picnic Shelter - One shelter is available for rent. Evaporation rates at the lake are substantial – about 73M gallons a day. It expands for 40 miles and offers 500 miles of shoreline. 1 of 6. , Suite 1 Hardy, VA 24101. This crane is capable of lifting 450 tons of equipment. One in particular, known as Monroe, would most likely be in the area where Vista Pointe Resort is now located (photographed above). 4. Incidents hit a 10-year peak of 110 in 2020 before dropping to 89 last year. Get it Oct 24 - 26. Review. Whether you seek days full of activities or more serene time spent relaxing, our region's amazing beauty and natural resources make for the. The Furrows first planted vines in. There are 14 back-in and pull-through campsites with water and electric hookups for RVs up to 65 feet long and 11 tent sites. 5/8/1962. 56°Sunny. Browse 22 smith mountain lake dam photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images. And if that isn't enough, it's surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, making it one of the most popular and. At the base of Smith Mountain in Pittsylvania and Bedford counties is the Smith Mountain Lake Dam. In the past month, the lake’s level has not been above 792 feet, which is more than 3 feet below full pond. People come from miles just to feed the fish, grab a bite to eat and take in. SML 50 years Gallery 2. From To. BRUNO'S CLUBHOUSE BISTRO. The Center is open on Sundays from 1-5 p. 6. $230 - 1 hour. Smith Mountain Dam is a concrete arch dam located on the Roanoke River in Virginia, creating Smith Mountain Lake. April 13, 1965 - This photo shows the level of Smith Mountain Lake, behind the dam on the Roanoke River. The dam was built by Appalachian Power between 1960. m. 10 a. Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center. -3 p. Built and operated by American Electric Power (formerly Appalachian Power Company), the damThese tours can be conducted within a 25 mile radius of the airport and include sights of the Smith Mountain Lake Dam, the Peaks of Otter, the D-Day Memorial, or even your own lake house! Cessna 172. Casey Fabris. From Richmond: Take Route 460 West to Lynchburg. Slocum’s Appaloosa Ranch, located near Smith Mountain Lake, offers just that with trail riding and horseback riding lessons for locals and travelers alike. 12 reviews #16 of 30 Restaurants in Moneta $$$$ Italian Armenian. Owner Login Franchise. . Located in portions of Bedford and Pittsylvania Counties, the 4996 acre Smith Mountain property is owned by Appalachian Power Company. It’s one of the youngest lakes in the U. From To. Built in the 1960s, the lake provides recreation and a home to many but its main purpose remains the same to generate electricity. Children are welcome to participate in instructor-led pony carousel rides around the lake and pond. comNovember 1962: Construction completed on the Smith Mountain Lake Dam. It was an unusual lake that developed—not a typical round one. The Smith Mountain Dam is a double curvature, concrete arch spanning 816 feet and rising 235. Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy (SMLCA) recently welcomed its high school students to the 2023-2024 school year with a new 26,000 square-foot facility, featuring 13 classrooms and a 300-seat cafeteria/conference room. Smith Mountain Lake is split between three counties Source: ESRI, ArcGIS Explorer. Local News. 8:45 a. This means that it’s accessible from a variety of roads, but the visitor center is located along Route 908, right off of. Dam construction began in 1960. Dozens of runners braved the steep slopes and trails around the Smith Mountain Dam for the Dam 50K and 5K on April 1. The state park has lots of amenities (beach, interpretive center, cabins, campground, marina, etc. The scenery around the lake is jaw-dropping, making it a popular destination. Public Marinas: Parkway Marina, Bridgewater Marina, Smith Mountain Dock & Lodge, Mitchells Point Marina, Sportsmans Marina Counties: Franklin, Bedford, Pittsylvania Header photo courtesy of. The linen package for this home is an additional $158 + tax and includes sheets, pillowcases, 2 bath towels, 1 hand towel and 1 wash cloth per person as well as a kitchen starter kit. Smith Mountain Dam is a concrete arch dam on the Roanoke River in Virginia, creating Smith Mountain Lake. The lake was created in 1963 by the Smith Mountain Dam impounding the Roanoke River. (tastings from noon to 2 p. It holds back a 20,000-acre lake, with more than 500 miles of shoreline. Admission is FREE. April 13, 1965 - This photo shows the level of Smith Mountain Lake, behind the dam on the Roanoke River. 00 mi) Sleep Inn & Suites Jasper I-22 (3. Jason Emmel, of Louisa, Virginia, broke the state record catching a 66-pound, 5-ounce blue catfish with a bow and arrow, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Additionally, there is a picnic area on Leesville Lake below the dam that is open to the public daily. . What is the best striper bait? Q: Where is Smith Mountain Lake deepest? A: SML’s maximum depth is about 250 feet, near the Smith Mountain Dam. Smith Mountain Lake State Park: Great swim, safe and beautiful environment. MONETA, Va. 33 feet per hour and a maximum drawdown rate of 0. Rural Retreat Lake. the adjusted reservoir elevation was 793. 32 Figure 6. . 11'. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. Share. read more. Washington National Monument, Smith Mountain Lake Airport and the Waterford and Westlake Country. Firstly, it's essential to know that Smith Mountain Lake State Park has six hiking trails which include the 1. The majority of the south shore of the lake lies in Franklin County while a small portion, including access to the dam, lies in Pittsylvania County. With over 500 miles of shoreline as the 2nd largest lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake is one of the premier places for fishing on the East Coast. 2. One of the prettiest sights near Smith Mountain Lake is the view from. Ships from and sold by EVML Map Outlet. The dam at Smith Mountain Lake is operated by American Electric Power (AEP), under a license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Filter searches for your preferred dates and budget then enjoy exploring available properties. 7 oz. Download Smith Mountain Lake Dam stock photos. At this park you can experience all the area has to offer with swimming, boating, hiking, fishing and more. (The others, in order, are Middle, Beach and Bellavista. Dams. Bullock said in a statement last year. Can you eat the fish from Smith Mountain Lake? Fish on Smith Mountain Lake’s Do Not. A couple days ago I tied a few orange ribbons to reveal hidden sections of the unmaintained part of the trail beyond the towers. 87 mi) Hampton Inn Jasper, Alabama (3. Harbortown Mini-Golf at Bridgewater Plaza is probably the most popular place, and there are many other activities to do and places to visit after playing. Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir in the Roanoke Region of Virginia, United States, located southeast of the City of Roanoke and southwest of Lynchburg. The hydroelectric dam. They completed the dam in 1967 and donated some of the surrounding land to form the park. Scott Heath and his team stuck with the changes and made the best of it. Written August 10, 2020. The first time our cabin was just on a camp road. It is the result of a 235-foot tall dam in a gap of Smith Mountain on the Roanoke River channel in Pittsylvania County. Business and property owners at the lake found. Smith Mountain Dam Visitor's Center. Don in VA If you go to see Smith Mountain Lake Dam DO NOT use Google maps for directions. The development, proposed by Willard Investment Properties, would include 30 single-family homes and a. On 7 March 1966, Smith Mountain Lake's water level first reached “full pond” (795 feet above sea level). Its deepest point is an impressive 250 feet, though its average depth is 55 feet. Jun. Chili tastings, craft vendors, shopping, live music. read more. Smith Mountain Lake, nestled in a broad valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, covers 20,600 acres and has over 500 miles of shoreline. The Smith Mountain Visitor's Center overlooks the dam and is free and open to the public. The reservoir was constructed in the early 1960’s and is owned by American Electric Power Company and is managed. For a unique experience, head to the Smith Mountain Project visitor’s center for an up-close look at how the lake’s dam was constructed in the 1960s. 10. 8. After heavy rain Sunday, April 12, and Monday, April 13, Smith Mountain Lake’s water level increased past its full amount at 795 feet, going over the dam’s spillways. Open now : 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Mariners Landing Resort sits on the edge of Smith Mountain Lake, providing guests the opportunity to experience. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers. Smith Mountain Lake is tucked far away in rural SW Virginia but the long drive is worth it. See moreLearn about the Smith Mountain Project, a two-lake complex of dams and reservoirs on the Roanoke River in Virginia, that provides power and recreation for the region. Memorial Day through Labor Day. Look at the photos. Nature & Wildlife Areas. From Rocky Mount, 20 minutes west on Route 40 is the Smith Mountain Lake Dam, museum and park. Smith Mountain Lake Dam. From Greensboro, NC: Take US 220 North to Rocky Mount, VA and then take Route 40 East for about 1/2 mile to Route 122. Reviews Q&A. Held at the Smith Mountain Lake State. The dam itself stands 235 feet tall, 816 feet long, and 30 feet thick at the base. ). Only1ravyn84. Current level is 792. See pricing and listing details of Smith Mountain Lake real estate for sale. There are numerous water activities, including swimming, boat rentals, a boat ramp. The construction of the Smith Mountain Lake Dam helped brand the lake as an environmental wonder. 9-mile Chestnut Ridge Trail, the 2-mile Rolling Meadows Trail, the 1. 9. It’s all here and it’s free in the 2023 SML Newcomer and Visitor Guide! Read and download it now or request a free printed copy. Follow Rt. Easily Find and Book the Perfect SML Accommodations! Use our powerful interactive map to quickly find and compare Smith Mountain Lake rentals, including cabins, cottages, condos and luxury homes, as well as nearby hotels. In other words, a two-foot decrease in Smith Mountain Lake (from 795 to 793 feet) results in Leesville Lake increasing 13 feet (from 600 to 613 feet). See all. 22' and at altavista 618 cfs, stage 1. Every angler stays in the running for the grand prize awarded at the end, until the end. General Information On the second largest freshwater lake in the state, this picturesque park is the water enthusiast's paradise. The current state record for the fish is 53 lbs. Share. A detailed and delicate dance through history brought about SML. It can be rented from 8 a. #3. List Your Property. 10 reviews . Smith Mountain Lake, Moneta: See 333 reviews, articles, and 187 photos of Smith Mountain Lake, ranked No. In such an extensive body of water, recreation abounds. In comparison to other lakes, Smith Mountain Lake is relatively new. The Smith Mountain dam project was one of the first commercial diving projects that used saturation diving. SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE. It is the largest lake in the state and covers an impressive 20,600 acres. Smith Mountain Dam is known as a pump-storage facility. 11. 32 Figure 6. These tours can be conducted within a 25-mile radius of the airport and include sights of the Smith Mountain Dam, the Peaks of Otter, the D-Day Memorial or even your own lake house. Dams. Part-time. With 4 distinct seasons, low taxes, low crime, and traffic a non-issue, Smith Mountain Lake is a great place to live. In addition to regular water exercise classes, lap swimmers and general pool use, 23 Westlake Wellness members swam the equivalent distance from the Hales Ford Bridge to the SML Dam. m, The cruise features a tour of the Smith Mountain Lake Dam, as well as a presentation from a Virginia State Park interpreter who will offer facts and information about the various wildlife that makes Smith Mountain Lake home. Cleanliness 4. At the same time, Smith Mountain Lake and Leesville Lake are a focal point for residents, tourists, and outdoor adventure seekers. Smith Mountain Lake is a 20,600-acre impoundment located near Roanoke in Bedford and Franklin counties. 0. 2 on Tripadvisor among 3 attractions in Sandy Level. Finished in 1966, the lake quickly became a hub of Virginia recreation. , the new Smith Mountain Lake reached “full pond” with 200,000 acres beneath its surface. 30 mile, easy - Encircling the Discovery Center, this family friendly loop affords hikers the clearest panorama of Smith Mountain Lake’s main “S” curve. Smith Mountain Dam, built by a South Bend, Indiana, company, cost more than $60 million and was capable of. Sign up for free email alerts. SML Triathlon: Test your endurance while swimming, cycling, and running through one of Virginia’s most beautiful state parks. Two and one-half years later, on March 7, 1966, the 20,600-acre Smith Mountain Lake reached full pond at 795 feet above sea level. Def. 3. Since the building of the dam and expansion of the lake, there have been several rumors about a city under Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain Lake Community Park. If you see a malfunctioning or damaged channel, rock or shoal marker, contact TLAC at 721-4400 or at Appalachian Power’s website, smithmtn. Smith Mountain Lake. But the true beauty of Smith Mountain Lake is how diverse it is. Free or royalty-free photos and images. lynchburgpowersports. , 272 Westlake Rd. These three waterways filled into a main body that encompasses more than 500 miles of. . Find out how to visit the free Visitor Center, see the pumped-storage system, and protect the islands and blueways. 99. The largemouth bass population is good with catch rates from DWR sampling rivaling nearby Smith Mountain Lake and Philpott Lake. The Dam Grill on Facebook. The Roanoke River flows from the Valley and Ridge physiographic province, through a gap in the Blue Ridge, and is trapped in the lake by Smith Mountain Dam on the border of Pittsylvania and Bedford counties. 1. In other words, a two-foot decrease in Smith Mountain results in Leesville Lake. The roads leading to the Smith Mountain Lake Dam meander through the farms of the Blue Ridge. Smith Mountain Lake Dam. The Smith Mountain Dam Visitor Center is open at various times; call 540-985-2587. John H. The Smith Mountain Lake level can fluctuate up to two feet before Leesville Lake becomes full. Since then, the area has grown into an upscale lakefront community with high-end homes, retail and commercial developments, and a host of recreational facilities. Memorial Day through Labor Day. It can be rented from 8 a. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. Close by are SML State Park and SML Community Park, each offering lakeside trails suitable for the whole family. LOCATION: Smith Mountain Dam Visitors Center is located at the eastern edge of the lake in Pittsylvania County, off Rt. I think that it was probably built in the 1960's or so. Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House did exceptionally well during their first year of business, and in March of 2020 they were able.