Peaks of Otter - Milepost 85.6

Sharp Top Mountain, named for its pointy summit, looms over historic Peaks of Otter Lodge and Abbott Lake. Kelly J. Mihalcoe photo   Visitors to Peaks of Otter follow a long-standing tradition of tourism. Starting in the 1800s, the surrounding community opened their homes and lodges to guests hoping to relax and rejuvenate in the mountains. Modern visitors can stay the night at historic Peaks of Otter Lodge, explore the visitor center, visit Johnson Farm, or hike a trail. Whether you stay an hour or the weekend, take in the cool air and incredible views that have drawn visitors for centuries.   At a Glance Visitor Center Historic Peaks of Otter Lodge Campground Picnic area Mountain music concerts (check the website calendar for schedule) Hiking trails Fishing Polly Wood's Ordinary Johnson Farm   Points of Interest: Visitor Center: Talk to a ranger and get Parkway information. Open seasonally; check the opening schedule for specific dates. Polly Wood’s Ordinary: Explore the ordinary, or early tavern, which served as the area’s first lodging starting in the 1830s. Johnson Farm: Play games, help work the garden, or enjoy nature’s beauty from a porch rocking chair at this living history farm.   Sleeping and Eating: Peaks of Otter Lodge: This historic lodge offers 63 rooms, a full-service restaurant, and lounge. The lodge is typically open from spring to late fall, as well as weekends in the winter. Visit the Peaks of Otter Lodge website to see available dates and book reservations online (you can also call 866-387-9905). See our Eating & Sleeping page for more information. Peaks of Otter Campground: If you’d rather sleep under the stars, stay in one of the campground’s 144 campsites. See the campgrounds page for details. The campground is open seasonally. Check the opening schedule for specific dates.. Peaks of Otter Picnic Area: Brown-bag it and grab a table at the picnic area along Little Stoney Creek. The picnic area offers tables, charcoal grills, and comfort stations. Open seasonally; check the opening schedule for specific dates.   Things to Do: Hike a Trail: The Peaks of Otter area offers six trails to choose from and three National Scenic Trails within eight miles. Plan ahead with the Peaks of Otter trails page. Go Fish: Abbott Lake is open to fishing for anyone with a valid North Carolina or Virginia fishing license. Please note the special regulations posted lakeside.   Nearby Towns And Access Bedford, VA: 10 miles Closest Access Road: Virginia State Route 43