Former vacation destination turned residential suburb near Fredericksburg
One of Virginia’s largest planned communities, Lake of the Woods, commonly referred to as LOW, is a 2,600-acre gated suburb that’s wrapped around Main Lake. Originally developed in 1967 as a vacation destination, most people in this community near Fredericksburg are now permanent residents. LOW draws people seeking quick access to outdoor recreation and major thoroughfares. “It's a very convenient location right by Route 3, which connects to I-95,” says Leslie Mytrysak, associate broker for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, who’s been selling homes in the area for over a decade.The community is almost entirely made up of homes, meaning residents must travel out of the area for work. Fredericksburg, 15 miles east, has major employers in health care, education and government. Commuters can also travel to Northern Virginia, Richmond and Washington D.C. for work.
Lake of the Woods is mostly a residential community with many homes featuring private docks.
Lake of the Woods is a serene community with grand views.
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Homes along winding roads, with waterfront views
Homebuyers can find ranch-style homes from the late-1900s, colonials from the early 2000s and contemporary styles that are still being built as of 2025. Many homes sit along winding roads, others are in cul-de-sacs and some boast waterfront views. Most houses have driveways and garages, and those along the lakes often feature private boat docks. As of February 2025, HOA fees for LOW total over $250 a month. Single-family homes tend to stay on the market for just over a month and usually sell for a median price of $430,000, which is higher than state and national medians.
Ranch homes are a popular option for residents of Lake of the Woods.
Large colonial revival homes can be found throughout Lake of the Woods.
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Picnics in the park, on-site LOW golf club
Locals have access to five parks spread throughout LOW that feature playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic areas and two community pools. The neighborhood’s two lakes are often used for swimming, boating and fishing. There’s a marina in both the north and south end for easy access to Main Lake. The Community Center has indoor sports facilities and a stage that hosts theater productions. Lake of The Woods Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with an on-site pro shop. There’s also an equestrian center along Lakeview Parkway.
People of all ages can enjoy the Lake of the Woods Community Center.
Tee off at Lake of the Woods Golf Club, located east of Main Lake.
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Commuting on Route 3, I-95
With its out-of-the-way location, lack of sidewalks and no public transportation, LOW is car dependent. Commuters can take state Route 3, which runs just to the north, to connect to Fredericksburg. From there, Interstate 95 runs 50 miles north to Washington D.C. and 50 miles south to Richmond. Mary Washington Healthcare is the closest hospital, located 20 miles north. The closest airport, Dulles International, is 50 miles north.
Orange County Public Schools earns a B-minus
Students can attend Orange County Public Schools, which earns a B-minus from Niche. Around 5,000 students attend six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Germanna Community College is less than 5 miles north.
Locust Grove Middle School faithfully serves the community of Lake of the Woods.
Younger students in Lake of the Woods can attend Locust Grove Primary School.
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Shopping and dining along Route 3
Most shopping and dining is along Route 3, including a Walmart, a Food Lion and chain eateries. Popular local dining spots nearby include ClearWater Fire-Grill, Tokyo Restaurant and 2 Brothers Italian Grill. “You’re also just a short drive from Fredericksburg, which has a ton of shopping,” adds Mytrysak.
When hunger strikes, head over to Clear Water Fire Grill in Lake of the Woods.
Lake of the Woods can get their groceries at Food Lion along route 3.
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Holiday events in LOW
The community holds an Independence Day Celebration with a parade, local vendor booths, live entertainment and fireworks. And in December, locals compete in their annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest.
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