Herman Road Lake Gaston Day Use Park
Located along the peaceful shoreline of Lake Gaston in Brunswick County, Virginia, the Herman Road Lake Gaston Day Use Park offers residents and visitors a beautiful public access point to enjoy the outdoors, paddle the lake, relax, and experience the natural beauty of Southside Virginia.
Conveniently located at 260 Herman Road, Bracey, VA 23919, the park is designed as a family-friendly, non-motorized recreation area featuring a kayak and paddle craft launch, lake access, parking, and scenic waterfront views. Whether you are exploring Lake Gaston by kayak, or simply taking in a sunset over the water, the park provides a safe and welcoming outdoor destination for all ages.
The Herman Road Lake Gaston Day Use Park reflects Brunswick County’s commitment to expanding public access to outdoor recreation while preserving the beauty and natural resources of Lake Gaston for future generations.
Park Features
- Public access to Lake Gaston
- Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard launch
- Scenic waterfront views
- Day-use recreation area
- Nature observation and photography
- Parking area
- Family-friendly outdoor environment
Park Hours
Sunrise to Sunset Only
The park is open daily during daylight hours unless otherwise posted by Brunswick County.
Site Rules & Regulations
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, please observe the following park rules:
- Non-motorized watercraft only - (Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards permitted)
- No swimming from docks, ramps, or floating platforms
- No overnight parking or camping
- Pets must be leashed at all times
- Pack in – Pack out trash - (Please help keep the park clean)
- No alcohol or illegal substances
- No open fires
- No littering or dumping
- No vandalism or destruction of property
- Children must be supervised at all times
- Use park facilities at your own risk
- Follow all posted boating and water safety regulations
Kayak Launch Safety Rules
The kayak and paddle craft launch is intended for non-motorized watercraft only, including: Kayaks, Canoes, Paddleboards.
Prohibited Activities
No swimming
No fishing from boat ramps or floating platforms
Launch Etiquette
To ensure safe use of the launch area:
1. Load gear in designated staging areas before entering the platform
2. Do not block launch access points with personal items
3. Only one vessel may use the launch at a time
4. Yield to others and take turns launching
5. Move watercraft away from the dock immediately after launching or loading
6. Watch for boat traffic before entering the water
Required Safety Equipment
Virginia boating safety laws apply to all paddle craft users.
Required:
- One U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (PFD) per person
- Properly wearable and accessible safety gear
- Sound-producing device such as a whistle or hornStrongly Recommended:
- Wear your life jacket at all times
- Use bright or visible clothing
- Stay out of main boating channels when possible
- Boating Interaction Safety
Lake Gaston is an active boating lake.
Paddle craft users should:
- Stay clear of main boat channels whenever possible
- Cross channels quickly and directly
- Be alert for boat wakes, which can overturn smaller vessels
- Yield to larger motorized vessels when necessary
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI) laws apply on all Virginia waterways. Operating a watercraft while impaired is illegal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there an admission fee?
No. The Herman Road Lake Gaston Day Use Park is free and open to the public.
2. What activities are allowed?
Visitors may enjoy: Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Wildlife viewing, Photography, Relaxing and picnicking
3. Are motorized boats allowed?
No. The launch area is designated for non-motorized watercraft only.
4. Is swimming allowed?
No swimming is permitted from docks, ramps, or floating platforms.
5. Are pets allowed?
Yes. Pets are welcome but must remain leashed and under control at all times. You must also clean up after your pet.
6. Can I camp overnight?
No. Overnight camping and overnight parking are prohibited.
7. Is alcohol permitted?
No alcohol or illegal substances are allowed on park property.
8. Who maintains the park?
The Herman Road Lake Gaston Day Use Park is owned and maintained by Brunswick County, Virginia.
9. Who should I contact to report an issue?
To report maintenance concerns or issues at the park, please contact Brunswick County at: 434-848-3708 or 434-848-2728
In case of emergency, always call 911.