On the Property, offering more than 2700 acres of fun, Big Lick Retreat has something for everyone. In the summer months, many guests come to enjoy the expansive, uncrowded waters of Lake Moomaw, and all that comes with it.
Guests can bring a pole and fish the lake (with VDGIF fishing license), or the private bass pond on the property. Adults and kids alike often catch one worthy of a fish-tale from the dock at the pond.
Guests are also welcome to bring their own kayaks, canoes, and boats and tie down overnight at our private dock on the lake. Big Lick Retreat has the the only private property, and the only private dock, on Lake Moomaw.
Lake levels drop in September, based on weather and Gathright Management water releases, and the lake is often low through the autumn season. Our private, floating dock will be dry at 12′ below full pool. Lake Moomaw water levels can be found here.
Off the water, Big Lick Retreat has 40 miles of roadways/trailways to explore on foot or on bike. Mountain bicyclists love the Alleghany Highlands for its gorgeous vistas and challenging terrain– and Big Lick Retreat does not disappoint! Through the meadows up Big Lick Draft and toward the bass pond, there are trailways suitable for outdoor adventurers of all sizes.
At night, Big Lick Retreat offers dark, starlit skies, perfect for stargazing or enjoying the warm glow from a fire in the fire pits at each lodge. Don’t forget to grab a pack of marshmallows on your grocery stock-up trip!
Outdoor Adventure Abounds! Lake Moomaw forms the headwater of the Alleghany Highlands Blueway, and its consistent water flow, regulated by the Army Core of Engineers, ensures fun water play and fishing on the Jackson River. If moving water speaks to you, Alleghany Outdoors is the newest location for Twin Rivers Outfitters, and offers kayak and tubing excursions on the Jackson River from the nearby Petticoat Junction.
Alleghany Outdoors also offers bike trips on the Jackson River Scenic Trail.
For an excellent fly fishing experience, Escatawba Farms offers fly fishing lessons and access to their private waters on the Jackson River.
To hike the trails at the neighboring Bolar Mountain Recreation Area (the campground below our property), check out their trail map. Our property is the light gray shaded area on the lower left hand of the map, and our property gate is located at the end of their Campground 3.
Falling Spring is located on Route 220, and is a perfect add-on to a trip to town. They have a small picnic area, perfect for a packed lunch or a quick stop. The 80′ falls are gorgeous and ‘grammable any time of year, and even got a shoutout from Thomas Jefferson, who called it a “remarkable cascade.”
