Western Branch Reservoir

Convenient to the City

Western Branch Reservoir is in Suffolk, Virginia, around 30 miles from Norfolk and Portsmouth. For coastal fun, Virginia Beach is under 50 miles away.

The Norfolk International Airport is under 40 miles away, and the Sentara Obici Hospital is under 10 miles away.

Groceries and snacks can be found at several stores and markets within 15 miles. Locals recommend restaurants such as Iron Chef Japanese Restaurant, Cazadores, The General Public, and George’s Steak House.

Endless Opportunities

At over 1,200 acres, you’ll be hard-pressed to run out of things to do on Western Branch Reservoir. It is the largest of the Norfolk water supply lakes, and with a maximum depth of 35 feet, it is also the deepest.

Boat permits are required to launch and fish in all lakes owned by the City of Norfolk. Gas motors up to 9.9 horsepower are allowed, and boats with outboard motors larger than that can access the lake if the outboard is disabled.

Boats can be launched from several ramps in the area, and bank fishing is prohibited.

Anglers can expect to find largemouth bass, channel catfish, striped bass, bluegill, yellow perch, longnose gar, black bullhead, and bowfin. Western Branch is one of the top waters in the state in trophy sunfish, white perch, yellow perch, and largemouth bass.

Local Entertainment

Residents can learn about the area's history at either Riddick’s Folly House Museum or Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum.

Outdoorsmen and women won’t want to miss the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. With over 112,000 acres this refuge offers hiking, biking, and an opportunity to view exclusive wildlife.

Explore Various Cities

Portsmouth and Norfolk boast a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Their shopping ranges from upscale department stores to personal boutiques.

Virginia Beach is the perfect place for a walk on the beach, dine at seafood restaurants, or play a round of mini-golf.

The Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club, Bide-A-Wee Golf Course, and Suffolk Golf Course make excellent golfing locations.

A Place to Call Home

Whether you are looking to buy a family home, a full-time retirement residence, or a waterfront property, Western Branch Reservoir is an excellent choice.