Lake Arrowhead Beach Closed for the 2025 Season, Swimming Prohibited
Staffing and legal reasons cited
LURAY, Va. — For the first time in recent history, the town’s only beach and swimming area will be closed for the summer season.
Lake Arrowhead Park, a 134-acre recreation area, sits approximately six miles west of Shenandoah National Park’s Thornton Gap Entrance Station, at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Owned and managed by the town of Luray, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, fishing, boating and relaxing. The park’s man-made beach and swimming area are especially popular on hot summer days.
On April 9, 2025, town administrators announced that the beach and swimming area would be closed for the year, noting the the inability to certify an adequate number of lifeguard staff to safely manage the usual high-volume of summer visitor traffic.
Unable to meet the requirements outlined by the town’s legal advisors and insurance providers, administrators were forced to make the decision to close the beach area and prohibit swimming.
The town is hoping for cooperation and understanding, even though some residents are already expressing their disappointment on social media.
According to Luray Police Chief C.S. “Bow” Cook, there will be an increase in patrols to help ensure safety.
Cook noted that there is currently no one-size-fits-all monetary fine for violations, but “persons may be charged if they violate the notice, and permanently trespassed.”
Park hours March 1 through October 31 are 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
As of April 17, signs at the beach did not yet reflect the new rules. While it was too cold for anyone to even attempt to swim, several sections of safety netting were destroyed, and a main gate was open, allowing beach access.
For the 2025 season, Lake Arrowhead access for boating and fishing will continue “as normal,'“ with no planned changes. The boat dock and ramp are open year-round for use. Park guests may still bring their own boats (electric motors only), canoes, and kayaks for private use.
Those hoping to cool down in water this summer may opt to swim at nearby pools (in Stanley and New Market) or within Shenandoah National Park (such as the “swimming hole” at lower White Oak Falls).
Questions or comments about the Lake Arrowhead beach closure and swimming restrictions may be submitted by emailing info@townofluray.com.
The Town of Luray offices are located at 45 East Main Street, Luray. The main office phone number is 540-743-5511.
