Pulaski County

Contact Information

Parks and Recreation

County of Pulaski, VA
143 3rd ST NW, Suite 1
Pulaski VA 24301

540-980-7705

Claytor Lake

New River

Gatewood Reservoir

Reservoirs: Gatewood Reservoir, Claytor Lake

Major Rivers: New River

*indicates licensing location

Vision, Pride and Excellence – These three words are the centerpiece of the Pulaski County seal.  They also define the past, present and future of this community.  Pulaski County has much to be proud of today, most notably is its geographic location west of the eastern continental divide and nestled on top of the plateau through which the New River flows on its way north to the New River Gorge in West Virginia.

Pulaski County is home to a number of regional facilities and several outstanding attractions. The essence of this community can be captured by highlighting a few hidden gems where common things are being done uncommonly well.

A defining feature of Pulaski County, Claytor Lake was created by Appalachian Power Company in 1939, after the construction of Claytor Dam.  Today, the dam generates 75,000 kW of “green” renewable electricity while holding back 4,475 acres (232,000 acre feet) of water.  Its 100 miles of shoreline include gentle pastures, dramatic cliffs and many hidden coves ideal for summertime boat picnics and “jump-overboard” swimming.

The shores of Claytor Lake host two of Virginia’s most visited state parks.  Claytor Lake State Park provides camping, hiking, boat rentals, rental cabins and conference room space, while the New River Trail State Park provides outstanding opportunities for horseback riding, hiking and bicycling.

The New River, along which the New River Trail parallels on its 52-mile journey to Galax and the historic mill town of Fries, is nationally recognized as one of two American Heritage Rivers in Virginia (the Potomac River is the other).  Bald eagles, osprey, snowy egrets, minks, otters, and many other species are frequently sighted.  Fishing is good, but challenging in the winding waters of the river where you can find smallmouth bass, muskie, walleyes, rock bass, flathead and channel catfish.  The excellent habitat the river provides for smallmouth and spotted bass, including a state record 3-pound, 10-ounce catch is of particular interest to anglers.