History of Claytor Lake State Park VA
If you are looking for fun activities and outdoor recreation, Claytor Lake State Park VA is a great destination. You’ll find plenty to keep you entertained whether you love boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, or biking. The state park and lake also have an interesting history. Let’s explore the history of Claytor Lake State Park.
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3 Things to Know About the History of Claytor Lake State Park VA
1. The Beginning
It all started with the construction of Claytor Dam, and over the years, it has blossomed into a recreational destination. The story begins in 1937 when the Appalachian Power Company started building a hydroelectric dam on the New River. The dam’s completion formed a beautiful lake spanning 4,472 acres. Its naming was in honor of W. Graham Claytor, Sr., a vice president at Appalachian Power.
2. Creating a State Park
In early 1944, locals were excited about creating a state park around this new lake! Claytor Lake State Park’s growth tells an incredible story of how the area has changed. So in 1946, Pulaski, Radford, and Blacksburg residents came together to raise funds and buy 437 acres from Appalachian Power. They generously donated the land to the state, paving the way for the creation of Claytor Lake State Park. The park dates to 1951, and it quickly became a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Deep Rooted History and Culture
Before the creation of Claytor Lake, the underwater area was a colonial town called Dunkard’s Bottom. It was the home of William Christian, a notable Revolutionary War leader and the brother-in-law of Patrick Henry. It is also notable that Christiansburg gets its name from William Christian.
When construction on the dam began, many wanted to preserve some of the history. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) carefully disassembled the chimney rock from William Christian’s historic home. They reassembled it as a memorial outside Dublin, and in 1989, it found a new home at Claytor Lake State Park!
While visiting, don’t forget to check out the Haven B. Howe House, built between 1876 and 1879. It’s now an excellent Nature Exhibit Center that showcases the lake’s incredible wildlife habitat. The National Register of Historic Places added it in 2008!
4. What is Happening Now?
Claytor Lake State Park has been bustling with activity lately! Upgrades, especially to Campground D, have made it more accessible. While Campgrounds B and C are currently (2025) undergoing renovation, they will be open again soon. After Hurricane Helene, the community came together to help clear away debris, removing an impressive 300 acre-feet of it! Even with the challenges, the spirit of resilience and the hard work of the volunteers have genuinely brought the park back to life.
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