Claytor Lake was created in 1940 on the New River (actually one of the five oldest rivers in the world, geographically). To begin our morning, strolling its shoreline was pretty spectacular.

Mid-stroll, we visited the Haven B. Howe House, a historic home located on the lakeshore. It was built between 1876 and 1879, and is a two-story, brick dwelling with Italianate style detailing. The property was conveyed to the Virginia Conservation Commission in 1947. The house is now used as a Nature Exhibit Center that focuses on the lake’s wildlife habitat.
And I found a new favorite fish to like.