Photo: Mountain Lake Lodge
Photo: Mountain Lake Lodge
Photo: Nat Bane
Mountain Lake Lodge
★4.5(1,586 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 1-3 night stay (this is primarily an overnight destination)👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger children enjoy the lawn games and easy nature walks around the property, while tweens and teens appreciate the hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and the novelty of visiting an iconic movie location. The resort's peaceful setting is ideal for families seeking outdoor adventure combined with relaxation.🧡 Saved by 300+ families
About
Mountain Lake Lodge offers families a unique combination of outdoor recreation and resort amenities in the beautiful Virginia mountains. Famous as the filming location for 'Dirty Dancing,' this all-season destination features hiking trails, a pristine mountain lake, lawn games, and comfortable lodge accommodations perfect for multi-generational family getaways.
Highlights
- ✓Scenic mountain hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- ✓Mountain lake for fishing and nature observation
- ✓Spacious lawns with games like croquet, cornhole, and bocce ball
- ✓Famous 'Dirty Dancing' filming locations throughout the property
- ✓Peaceful natural setting perfect for stargazing
Pro Tips
- 1.Book a lakeside cabin for the best family experience,kids love having direct access to the water and outdoor space
- 2.Pack layers year-round as mountain temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer evenings
- 3.Download a trail map from the front desk and start with the easier trails near the lodge before venturing to more challenging hikes
- 4.Visit the famous stone labyrinth near the main lodge for a calming activity kids find surprisingly engaging
- 5.Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting,deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species are commonly seen on the property
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the most accessible outdoor activities and warmest lake conditions. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Fall foliage season (late September-October) is spectacular but books up quickly, so reserve well in advance.
What to Know
This is a full-service resort hotel with an on-site restaurant, so plan for resort pricing. The property sits at 4,000 feet elevation with limited cell service, which many families find refreshing for a digital detox vacation. Some hiking trails may be challenging for very young children.
Seasonal Notes
The lodge is open year-round but some trails may be icy or closed in winter months. Summer offers the fullest range of outdoor activities. The property hosts special 'Dirty Dancing' themed weekends throughout the year. Spring wildflower season is beautiful for nature-loving families.
Real Experiences
@mtnlakelodge
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Nearby Eats
The on-site Harvest Restaurant serves family-friendly meals. For additional options, drive 20 minutes to Pembroke for casual dining, or pack a picnic to enjoy on the lodge's scenic grounds.
More Activities Near Pembroke
Park
Pembroke Park Lane
Free
Pembroke Park Lane offers families a classic neighborhood park experience with all the essentials for a fun outdoor day. Kids can burn energy on the playground equipment while parents relax in the picnic areas, and the walking paths provide a perfect setting for family strolls or bike rides through the open green spaces.
Ice Cream
ALOHA EDDIE
★5.0$❤️9
ALOHA EDDIE is a delightful food truck serving up refreshing Italian ice and creamy frozen custard that's perfect for a quick family treat in the Pembroke/Christiansburg area. This mobile sweet spot offers a fun, casual atmosphere where kids can enjoy colorful shaved ice flavors and classic frozen custard without the fuss of a sit-down restaurant,ideal for a post-dinner dessert run or midday cool-down.
Library
Pembroke Public Library
★5.0Free
Pembroke Public Library is a welcoming community hub that offers much more than books. With engaging storytime programs, educational activities tailored for young learners, and special family-friendly events throughout the year, it's a wonderful free resource for parents looking to nurture their children's love of reading and learning in a cozy, small-town atmosphere.
Park
Pembroke Meadows Lake Park
★4.6Free❤️108
Pembroke Meadows Lake Park is a versatile community park in Virginia Beach that offers something for every family member. With modern playground structures, open sports fields, tennis courts, and plenty of shaded areas, it's perfect for everything from active play to peaceful picnics. The park's well-maintained facilities and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among local families.