Built in 1966 as authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1960, the 154 acre lake is used for fishing, boating, camping, picnicing, hiking, and municipal water supply. Picnic area overlooks reservoir and is complete with restroom facility. The reservoir is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, but most of the developed recreation sites are managed by the Jefferson National Forest. Fish population in the lake includes, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish. The lake is stocked by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
Cane Patch campground is the center of the recreation activity on the lake. It has 33 camping sites with restrooms, showers and playground equipment.
The Laurel Fork campgrounds provide a more primitive atmosphere for campers and is only accessible by boat.