Nestled in the rugged foothills within sight of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia are the lake and surrounding public lands of Philpott Lake. The clear water and natural shoreline make Philpott Lake a unique place to visit. Over 6,000 acres of surrounding land, 3,000 acres of water, and a power plant make up Philpott Project located in portions of Franklin, Henry and Patrick counties. Congress authorized construction in 1944 for flood control and hydroelectric power generation as the primary purposes, and water supply and recreation as subsequent purposes. A wide range of activities are available: fishing, hiking, boating, camping, picnicking.