Member Login

Our Story

Lake of the Woods (LOW) is a private, planned residential and recreational community in northeastern Orange County, Virginia. Conveniently located along Route 3, LOW is just 15 miles west of I-95 and 18 miles east of Route 29—about halfway between Fredericksburg and Culpeper, and within easy reach of Washington, D.C., Richmond, and Charlottesville.

Spanning more than 2,600 acres, LOW includes 4,260 lots (with 850 lakefront properties) across 16 sections and over 41 miles of private roads. While the natural setting and two private lakes are defining features, LOW offers far more than scenic views. Residents enjoy a wide variety of recreational, social, and cultural opportunities that bring neighbors together and support an active, connected lifestyle. LOWA celebrated our 50th Anniversary in 2017, click here to view photos.

As a gated community, LOWA provides 24/7 contracted security services for peace of mind. In addition, Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Inc., based inside the community, delivers round-the-clock fire and emergency medical response for both residents and northeastern Orange County.

To tour Lake of the Woods, visitors must be accompanied by a licensed realtor or the guest of a member. We encourage prospective residents to connect with one of the realtors featured on our Real Estate page to discover firsthand what makes Lake of the Woods such a unique place to call home.

Real Estate

Lakes and Dams

Water is at the heart of life at Lake of the Woods. The community is home to two lakes, two
dams,and a front entrance pond, offering residents both recreation and scenic beauty.

The Main Lake

Covering 500 acres, the Main Lake is the centerpiece of the community. Fed by Flat Run and numerous springs, it provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. Along its northwest edge, the Veterans Memorial Dam, built in 1968 and stretching 1,400 feet, forms the lake’s boundary. Members enjoy access to two marinas, seven access points, and eight sand beaches, making the Main Lake a hub of year-round activity.

Main Lake-500 acres
Fed by Flat Run & springs
Veterans Memorial Dam – 1,400 ft (built 1968)
2 marinas
7 access areas
8 sand beaches 

Keatons Lake

Known as the Fishing Lake, Keatons Lake is a 35-acre impoundment created by damming Keatons Run. Located near Route 3 at the community’s northeast corner, it features Keatons Run Dam, a public launch area, and a sand beach—providing a quieter, more intimate setting for anglers and families alike.

Keatons Lake (Fishing Lake) - 35 acres
Created by damming Keatons Run
Keatons Run Dam
1 public launch area
1 sand beach

Front Entrance Pond

The community’s front entrance pond, complete with a fountain, serves as a sediment retention basin and is also home to the annual Youth Fishing Tournament—a beloved tradition that introduces the next generation to LOW’s fishing heritage.

Amenities

Founded as a residential and recreational community, Lake of the Woods offers an exceptional range of amenities designed to bring neighbors together, encourage active lifestyles, and provide nearly limitless opportunities for fun and connection. Whether on the water, the golf course, in the saddle, or at one of our many parks, members and their families can enjoy activities that fit every age and interest.

At Lake of the Woods, amenities aren’t just facilities—they are the heart of the community,
offering daily opportunities to connect, recharge, and create lasting memories.

The Association

Every property owner in Lake of the Woods is automatically a member of the Lake of the Woods Association, Inc. (LOWA), a homeowners’ association established in 1972. LOWA is governed by Virginia law and led by a seven-member volunteer Board of Directors (BOD), elected at large by the membership. Each lot is entitled to one vote in all elections, ensuring every property owner has a voice.

The Board of Directors functions much like a town council, responsible for adopting policies, setting strategies, and approving an annual budget to meet the evolving needs of the community. Supporting the BOD are more than twenty advisory committees, staffed by member volunteers who play an active role in shaping the community.

Meetings & Governance

Board meetings: typically once a month
Committee meetings: open to all members
Annual Meeting & Board election: held each Labor Day

Covenants, By-laws, and Regulations guide the orderly operation of the Association, while an annual assessment, set by the BOD, provides funding for facility operations, amenity upkeep, and community services. Assessments are due May 1, the start of LOWA’s fiscal year.

Upon payment, members receive identification cards granting access to amenities, vehicle and boat registration, and convenient entry through the front and back gate.