W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir is a man-made wonder in Wilkesboro, North Carolina operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Originally created for water supply and flood control, the massive recreational area sits in the stunning Yadkin River Valley. After several studies, the construction of the Wilkesboro Dam and Reservoir lasted two years from 1960 through 1962. Congress made the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir name official in 1963 to honor former Gov. and U.S. Sen. William Kerr Scott. Let’s take a look at this beautiful man-made structure and all of its resources.

When you visit the 1,475-acre reservoir, open year-round, try to keep a plan in mind as the opportunities for recreation are endless.
Bruce M/Tripadvisor
The visitors center offers interesting exhibits, several picnic areas, and restrooms, and multiple parking areas are available.
For starters, sunrise might be prettier here than anywhere.
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, USACE Wilmington District/Facebook
Be the first one to break the water with your kayak.
We like the winding bends and turns along the rich forests of hardwoods, such as oak and sycamore, where you might spy a black bear and surely plenty of deer.
Smith, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
And if you're good with bird calls, listen for red-eyed vireo, ovenbirds, and wood ducks.
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, USACE Wilmington District/Facebook
If you're lucky, this majestic one might also make an appearance.

Related Stories

Thousands of 'Ancient-Looking' Birds Have Been Spotted On North Carolina's Outer Banks

Thousands of "Ancient-Looking" Birds Have Been Spotted On North Carolina's Outer Banks

 This Little-Known Lake Is Perfect For Fishing, Paddleboarding, And Bird Watching In North Carolina

This Little-Known Lake Is Perfect For Fishing, Paddleboarding, And Bird Watching In North Carolina

 Few People Realize The Fly Fishing Capital Of The South Is Right Here In North Carolina

Few People Realize The Fly Fishing Capital Of The South Is Right Here In North Carolina

Paid Content Bryson City, North Carolina
This reservoir has it all, including overnight accommodations, such as Bandits Roost Campground and Warrior Creek Campground.
raywells2006/Tripadvisor
And if you live to bike, the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir features 11 miles of certified Overmountain Victory National Historic Trails which are primarily mountain biking paths, but walkers are welcome.
Overlooks and parks are plentiful with Boomer Park, Berry Mountain Park, and Fort Hamby Park to name a few.
Sam A/Tripadvisor
Smithey's Creek Park is one of many day-use areas available, offering a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and a picnic area.
The summers bring swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beaches.
tekoanme/Tripadvisor
The beauty is prevalent any time of day, especially after a storm.
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, USACE Wilmington District/Facebook
But there's something about the golden sunset that keeps us coming back year after year to share with our fishing buddies.
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, USACE Wilmington District/Facebook

For more information about this man-made wonder in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, visit the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir web page. Have you visited this lovely reservoir? Please share your experiences with us in the comments below. While you’re there, make plans to hike the Cascades Trail in Deep Gap, about a half-hour away. Read more about it on the Alltrails website.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore North Carolina

Featured Addresses
W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir Visitor Assistance Center, 499 Reservoir Rd, Wilkesboro, NC 28697, USA