Lower Philpott Dam.

Nice area behind the dam on the Franklin County side. Fishing , large flat grassy area, picnic tables and benches, restrooms and raft/kayak/canoe launching areas.

The dam is worth stopping by to see. You can access it from the Franklin County side or the Henry County side but I only know how to get there from the Henry County side. I think that people planning to fish there use the Franklin County side. It isn't marked on Maps but just before you get to the dam, there is an access to the Smith River for kayaking and hiking. Look for the big blue sign just as you are entering the parking lot for the dam. The kayak access is a little steep and rough. This is the first available put-in after the dam and the water coming in is cold, creating a mist as it begins its route down the river. The hiking trail for the Smith River Trail system intersects the kayak access.

Like a scene from a hobbit movie, clean, natural, pristine. Hungry trout! Very fast moving water. Not really for children but if you must, put their pfd on them the moment they leave the vehicle please

Very beautiful and was an some to see how massive this dam is. There is nature and trails as well.

This place is truly a part of my life, going all the way back to my childhood. Many mornings and afternoons were spent heading to the park and walking with my Dad up to the top of the dam. On warm days, we could even look over the edge and see huge catfish basking in the sun near the surface of the water! The main parking lot below the dam is a trailhead for most of the trail in this part of the park, but I always suggest heading to the top of the dam first! A great place to go walking, partake in some light hiking, or even fishing! Legend has it that there are fish that live near the dam as big as a grown man! The picture below is the Philpott Dam on 5-22-20 spilling over for the first time since it was built!

Excellent place to visit, nice to listen and view the water flowing from dam, took a small trail near the river .

Beautiful views need a boat to experience more there

Beautiful trail! It's not too difficult but it's not too pedestrian either. I've never seen it crowded. The woods are quite and lovely. The water and the dam are lovely too.
I recommend this as a mild hike - a good thing to do on a chill and easy Saturday.

This is a nice, secluded place for a walk or just see the awesome sights. The dam towers over everything. You can almost feel the pressure of the lake water hiding behind it. There is a trail head here for the adventurous. Or you can dip a line in the river, sit back & enjoy.

It's not the Hoover dam but it's still cool to look at

Great place to drive out to. Very peaceful and calming. Also some good fishing. It's really nice to escape the mondane

The overlook is a great way to experience Philpott Lake. Many parking spaces where you can park and enjoy a meal and the views. There's a place called Hornes as you turn in to the dam area. The have a good menu and great food. Stop by and pick up a meal. Take it to the overlook and have a tailgate or picinic.

FREE, NATURAL A. C. !!!For a refreshing view, visit here on a very hot day! I visit here for scenery you can view while walking around (cool), and listening to the splashing water!( Parking area is approx. 200 ft. below water level.) They have a mini. pic- nic area and restrooms!

Beautiful scenery. Interesting visitors center and very clean. Has great overlooks and picnic areas. Well worth the drive.

Native trout. Cold water. 1000 ft property line. Philpott is a hidden treasure.

Very beautiful!! Always loved, and enjoyed my daily walks, and trails here. Sure do miss it! Anyone in this area or in VA should visit.

Brutus and Cindy enjoyed visiting Philpott lake.

Very beautiful view

Very beautiful place and you can put a canoe in and go down river and you can fish and have a picnic by the river

Great place to just getaway for a little while for some peace and quiet time to yourself. Beautiful view..