Lake Gaston Information

Crossing the Virginia and North Carolina border, Lake Gaston was formed in 1963 by the Virginia Electric & Power Company (VEPCO) by impounding the Roanoke River and building the Gaston Dam to generate electricity. Lake Gaston begins at Kerr Dam, built in 1953 for flood control, and continues downstream to Gaston Dam to feed Roanoke Rapids Lake and Roanoke Rapids dam, making this area unique in that three hydro-electric dams are involved in generating electricity for Dominion North Carolina Power.

Not only does the Lake cross two State boundaries, but encounters five counties as well - Halifax County, NC; Northampton County, NC; Warren County, NC; Brunswick County, VA; and Mecklenburg County, VA.  It stretches roughly 35 miles long, covering about 350 miles of shoreline, and has been a popular retirement destination for many who want to live in a rural environment, yet be close enough to larger cities for shopping, dining and medical care.  Under normal conditions the water elevations average about 200 feet above sea level; and due to the upstream/downstream water flow, remains at a relatively constant water level, fluctuating only 6 inches either way - a real plus for Real Estate investment.  Popular cities of South Hill and Bracey Virginia are convenient for shopping and dining.

Dominion North Carolina Power operates the lake within the regulations and license of the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.  In addition the US Coast Guard and Wildlife Commissions in both NC & VA monitor the waters closely.

Proximity to both I-85 and I-95, Lake Gaston makes for an easy commute to Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area as well as Richmond, VA. It's central location also makes it easy for day trips to other VA and NC popular destinations.  Locals and fisherman alike define Lake Gaston by quadrants - NW / NE / SW / SE as shown in the map.  The NW & NE quadrants stretch across Mecklenburg and Brunswick counties in Virginia, while the SW & SE quadrants stretch across Warren, Northampton and Halifax counties in North Carolina.

Of course the highlights of the lake are centered around boating, swimming and fishing, followed by wake boarding, tubing, water skiing and jet skiing.  Children and adults of all ages find something wonderful to enjoy about the natural beauty and many activities that the lake offers. 

The main body of Lake Gaston runs 35 miles between dams with creeks, coves and rivers branching off along the way.  Fisherman love the fact that they have so many options depending on what type of fish they are looking to catch whether it be large mouth bass, catfish, stripers, or walleye - just to name a few. And you will find better fishing on Lake Gaston than other VA & NC lakes.

Off-shore recreation includes golfing, environmental paths for walking and hiking, scenic country roads for biking, local historical sites, antique shopping, cultural art centers, restaurants & gourmet chef service, retail venues - and plenty of places with accessibility to high-speed internet.

Wouldn't you love to own Real Estate on Lake Gaston or surrounding areas in Bracey or South Hill VA?  Just contact Beth & Beth Realtors at Gaston Lake Luxury Homes to assist you with your real estate needs. Beth Cook & Beth Smith are your best resource for Real Estate in South Hill VA - Real Estate in Bracey VA and Real Estate in Lake Gaston.

Weather in Lake Gaston is ideal for lake enthusiasts that like moderate to mild four-season temperatures.  Because the weather is quite mild, boating, fishing and other water activities are known to be year-round events.  Winters average about 42°F and Summers average 77°F.  Lake Gaston will receive an occasional snow shower in the Winter months, but the moderate temperatures usually melt it quickly. 

To find out more about the current Lake Gaston weather and fishing reports, click here.