Lake Anna is a 17-mile long, 13,000 acre reservoir in the rolling fields and forested triangle formed by the cities of Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, and Richmond, Virginia. The lake was created by Virginia Electric and Power Company, now Dominion Resources, Inc., in 1972 to serve as a recreational lake and to provide water for the North Anna Power Station.

Lake Anna was formed 34 years ago by damming the North Anna River, one of the principal tributaries of the Pamunkey and York Rivers.

Today the lake's 200 miles of shoreline is dotted with houses, marinas, campgrounds and a large state park.

Lake Anna and its watershed lie astride three counties of Central Virginia with a rich history and diversified environment. Louisa County on the south side of Lake Anna encompasses over 50% of the watershed. Orange County to the northwest of Lake Anna is the smallest county in both area and population, and comprises about 25% of the watershed. Spotsylvania County to the north of Lake Anna contains only 20% of the lake watershed, but is the most populous and rapidly growing of the three counties.

Lake Anna is one of Virginia’s premier fishing waters, hosting a fish population of striped bass, largemouth bass, perch, crappies, catfish, and bluegill, and is the site of numerous bass tournaments. The lake is served by over half a dozen marinas and several public boat launching sites which charge a small fee for launching services. The Lake Anna State Park offers 2,300 acres of wooded land for hiking and nature study, picnicking and camping. Rental cottages are available.

This part of Virginia has been described as the most fought-over real estate in the nation. Major Civil War battlefields provide a good look at the history of the region. Visitors to the lake quickly discover historic Fredericksburg only a half an hour away with its unique shopping opportunities, civil war history and the sidewalk cafés.

Paramount King's Dominion has become a popular day trip for vacationing families. This giant theme park is one of Virginia's major tourist attractions and is only a short drive from the lake. For everyone's safety, the lake is patrolled by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries’ game wardens, county sheriff’s offices, a Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla, and three local volunteer organizations.

Coming soon to the region is a golf course and a planned urban development of 800 homes.

Many businesses and organizations make the Lake Anna area a delight for residents and visitors alike. See http://www.louisaonline.com for information about the area and its offerings.