Lake of the Woods, VA

County: Orange

History

Lake of the Woods, Virginia

Lake of the Woods, Virginia is a gated community located in Orange County, Virginia. The area was originally settled by Native American tribes such as the Manahoacs and the Monacans, who used the land for hunting and fishing.

In the early 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area. However, it was not until the 1960s that Lake of the Woods was developed as a planned residential community. The Lake of the Woods Corporation was created in 1966, and the community was officially established in 1967.

The centerpiece of the community is the Lake of the Woods, a 2,600-acre man-made lake. The lake was created by damming up the Rapidan River and covers an area that was once a swamp. The lake provides recreational opportunities for residents, including boating, fishing, and swimming.

The development of Lake of the Woods brought significant changes to the area. The population of Orange County increased considerably, and the community became a popular destination for vacationers and retirees. Over the years, Lake of the Woods has expanded and added amenities such as golf courses, swimming pools, and a clubhouse.

Today, Lake of the Woods is a thriving community with over 4,200 homes. It is known for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and tight-knit community. The area continues to attract residents and visitors who are drawn to its recreational opportunities and scenic surroundings.

Attractions

Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods, VA is a private, gated community located in Orange County, Virginia. While it does not have any major attractions within its vicinity, there are plenty of recreational activities and natural beauty to enjoy in the area. Here are a few notable attractions around Lake of the Woods:

Lake of the Woods

The community itself has a beautiful lake with over 500 acres of water for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake also has two marinas and several beaches accessible to residents.

Lake of the Woods Golf Course

This is an 18-hole golf course within the community, offering scenic views and challenging play.

Wilderness Presidential Resort

Just a short drive from Lake of the Woods, this resort features camping, hiking trails, fishing, swimming pools, and other outdoor activities. It's a great place to enjoy nature and spend time with the family.

Chancellorsville Battlefield

This historic site is known for the Civil War battle that took place there. Visitors can explore the battlefield, learn about the history, and hike through the preserved landscape.

James Madison's Montpelier

A bit farther away, in nearby Montpelier Station, you can visit the historic home of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. The estate offers guided tours, a museum, and beautiful gardens.

Local Wineries

The Lake of the Woods area is surrounded by several wineries and vineyards, such as Barrel Oak Winery, Horton Vineyards, and Lake Anna Winery. These are great places to sample Virginia wines and enjoy scenic views.

While Lake of the Woods itself is mainly a residential community, there are plenty of nearby attractions and recreational opportunities to enjoy.

Climate

Lake of the Woods, Virginia has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild to cool winters, and ample rainfall throughout the year. The area experiences four distinct seasons.

Summers in Lake of the Woods are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27-33 degrees Celsius). The humidity can make the air feel even hotter, and occasional afternoon thunderstorms are common. The summer season lasts from June to August.

Fall in Lake of the Woods brings mild temperatures and pleasant weather. The autumn season, from September to November, sees average highs in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). The area is known for its beautiful fall foliage as the leaves change color.

Winters in Lake of the Woods are mild to cool, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to the low 50s Fahrenheit (8-12 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. Snowfall is relatively rare, with only a few inches accumulating over the season.

Spring in Lake of the Woods sees temperatures gradually warming up. March and April are transitional months, with average high temperatures in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius). By May, temperatures begin to reach the 70s Fahrenheit (20-25 degrees Celsius). Spring can be relatively wet, with rain showers and thunderstorms becoming more frequent.

Overall, Lake of the Woods, Virginia experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons.

Neighborhoods

Lake of the Woods is a gated residential community located in Orange County, Virginia. The community is known for its beautiful lake and countryside surroundings, offering residents a peaceful and tranquil living experience. Lake of the Woods is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique features and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Lake of the Woods:

Lake View

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is known for its stunning lake views. Homes in this area often have balconies, decks, or patios that overlook the lake, allowing residents to enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Golfers Crossing

This neighborhood is perfect for golf enthusiasts, as it is situated near the community's 18-hole PGA golf course. Residents in this area enjoy easy access to the golf course and its associated amenities, such as the clubhouse and pro shop.

Wilderness West

This neighborhood offers a rustic and natural setting, with homes surrounded by trees and wildlife. It provides a sense of seclusion, making it a preferred choice for those who cherish privacy and tranquility.

Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar is a family-friendly neighborhood, with many homes featuring large yards and spacious layouts. The neighborhood is close to many amenities, such as the community center, pool, and recreational areas, making it a great choice for families with children.

Lake Shore

Located on the lake's shoreline, this neighborhood offers easy access to all water-related activities. Residents here enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and other recreational water sports. Many of the homes have private docks for boat owners.

Fairway

This neighborhood is centered around the community's golf course, offering residents a golf-centric lifestyle. Homes in this area often have golf course views and provide convenient access to the clubhouse and other golf-related amenities.

Coves

Nestled in quiet cul-de-sacs and surrounded by trees, the Coves neighborhood provides a serene and intimate living environment. It is a popular choice for those looking for a cozy and close-knit community atmosphere.

Each neighborhood in Lake of the Woods has its own distinct charm and caters to different preferences. However, all residents have access to the community's shared amenities, including two lakes, a marina, swimming pools, tennis courts, hiking trails, equestrian facilities, and a clubhouse. Overall, Lake of the Woods offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles, ensuring that there is something for everyone in this picturesque community.

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