RECREATION

Buggs Island Lake (John H. Kerr Reservoir) & Lake Gaston

Buggs Island Lake, formally known as John H. Kerr Reservoir was formed in 1953 by the damming of the Roanoke River. The John H. Kerr Dam was built to control flooding on the river and to generate electrical power. Just downstream of Kerr Dam, Lake Gaston was formed by damming the Roanoke at Roanoke Rapids, in North Carolina.

In addition to harnessing the damaging floods, and creating power, the damming of the river presented Southside Virginia with a mecca of recreational opportunities, and a new nickname, "Lake Country".

Each year thousands of people flock to the many access points at the lake for swimming, boating, fishing, camping, or just to lay out in the sun.

Big Daddy's South Boston Speedway
Big Daddy's South Boston Speedway is a 0.4 mile oval that features many events ranging from Nascar Craftsman Truck and Late Model races to enduros and demolition derbies. South Boston and the South Boston Speedway is the home of 2002 Daytona 500 Winner, Ward Burton.

State Parks
Lake Country features several state parks that offer hiking, equestrian trails, camping, boat launching, picnicking, and more. Occoneechee State Park offers nearly 20 miles of trails as well as camp sites and boat launches. Occoneechee State Park is located on US Highway 58, across the lake from Clarksville, in Mecklenburg County.