Tourism | Visitors

Historic Town with Deep Roots

Clarksville, the first incorporated town in Mecklenburg County, was established in 1818 and named after its founder, Clarke Royster. Located along the scenic Roanoke River, these lands were originally home to the Occaneechi Indians, with trading paths weaving through the region. The British, led by Nathaniel Bacon, displaced the indigenous people in 1676, paving the way for settlers drawn by the temperate climate and rich tobacco-growing soil.

A Boomtown in Tobacco Trade

By 1832, Clarksville had become one of the fastest-growing towns in Virginia. The Clarksville Tobacco Market flourished, leading to the formation of The Roanoke Navigation Company, which transported tobacco along the Roanoke River to Petersburg. The construction of an 80-mile plank road and, later, the Roanoke Valley Railroad connected Clarksville to key trade hubs like Petersburg and Manson, North Carolina.

By 1848, Clarksville gained prominence as a major leaf tobacco market and manufacturing center, exporting large shipments to Europe. In 1860, the R. H. Moss and Brother Factory became the top producer of manufactured tobacco in both Virginia and Carolina. Today, Clarksville proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuous tobacco market.

The Creation of Buggs Island Lake

The 1950s brought significant change with the damming of the Roanoke River, creating the expansive 50,000-acre Buggs Island Lake. This transformation made Clarksville the only town on the lake, which soon became a hotspot for outdoor recreation. Visitors flock to the area for camping, fishing, hunting, boating, swimming, skiing, and other water sports.

A Hub for Fishing and Outdoor Activities

Clarksville is now a central gathering point for fishing enthusiasts, hosting dozens of tournaments each year. The peaceful, small-town charm, combined with easy access to the lake and surrounding natural beauty, makes it a haven for outdoor lovers.

A Perfect Blend of Relaxation and Opportunity

Beyond recreation, Clarksville is emerging as a growing center for technology and business.

Its proximity to major vacation destinations like Virginia Beach (3 hours) and the Appalachian Trail or Great Smoky Mountains (4-6 hours) makes it ideal for quick getaways. Additionally, urban centers like Richmond, Washington D.C., and North Carolina’s Triangle area (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill) are just a short drive away.

Plan Your Visit to Clarksville on the Lake

Whether you’re planning a day-trip, weekend getaway, relaxing family vacation, or searching for the perfect spot to relocate your business, Clarksville on the Lake offers everything you need. Come and discover the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant community of Clarksville—Virginia’s ONLY Lakeside Town.