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.
Written By
Logan Soter-Reardon
Photography Contributed By
Caleb Jones
Video By
Ellie Brown
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brenda Rich,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Lake Of The Woods, VA sell after 91 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Of The Woods, VA over the last 12 months is $479,999, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located at the end of a cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Lake of the Woods community, this 3 bed, 2.5 bath ranch-style home with a 2-car attached garage backs to the 1st hole of the golf course. The kitchen opens seamlessly to the main living area, creating an inviting space ideal for hosting and everyday living. The spacious primary suite includes direct access to one of the two sunrooms-an
*****WELCOME TO THIS EQUISITE HOME LOCATED ON A PREMIUM GOLF COURSE LOT*****NESTLED WITHIN THE PRESTIGOUS GATED COMMUNITY OF LAKE OF THE WOODS, THIS STUNNING TWO-STORY HOME OFFERS UNPARALLED LIFESTYLE, WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF THE SEVENTH GREEN. THIS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED HOME PROVIDES LUXURIOUS COMFORT AND STYLE, MAKING IT A PERFECT PLACE TO CALL HOME. AS YOU DRIVE DOWN THE QUIET
***ONE LEVEL LIVING AT IT'S BEST***THIS SPACIOUS RAMBLER BOASTS THREE BEDROOMS AND TWO FULL BATHS. LARGE FOYER LEADING TO LIVING ROOM WITH COZY GAS FIREPLACE AND FORMAL DINING ROOM. KITCHEN OFFERS LOTS OF COUNTER SPACE INCLUDING BUILT IN DESK AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES ADJOING A LARGE BREAKSFAST NOOK. PRIMARY BEDROOM HAS WALK-IN CLOSET AND PRIVATE BATH WITH SEPERATE VANITIES, SOAKING TUB
Stylish, Fully Renovated One-Level Home in Lake of the WoodsThis beautifully updated one-level home offers comfort, style, and a standout location in one of Virginia’s premier gated lake and golf communities. The renovation was top-to-bottom—and it shows.Inside, you'll find Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring throughout, brand-new stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a
*** THIS BEAUTIFUL ONE LEVEL HOME OFFERS*** Recently Renovated from Head to Toe!!! SOOOO ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS INSIDE!!! Let's Talk About the TWO MASTER SUITES!!! Featuring Hardwood flooring, Granite countertops, Stainless Appliances, Floor to Ceiling Fireplace, Front Deck, Glorious Sunroom, 4 Bedrooms & 3 Full Baths and Located on the GOLF COURSE !!! No Disappointment HERE!!! Perfect One Level
Welcome to this attractive and well maintained, comfortable 4-bedroom rambler nestled in the woods at Lake of the Woods Lake and Golf Community and conveniently located to Front Gate, Clubhouse, Pool and Fitness Center. When entering the foyer, you can immediately feel at home. The 4 -bedroom (4TH BR does not have a closet which can be used as a study, office or den is located in front of the
Charming 4-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom One-Level Home in a Resort-Style CommunityStep into comfort and style with this beautifully updated 4- bedrooms, 2-bathroom gem, ideally situated just moments from the gate entrance for effortless access. Designed with convenience in mind, this single-level home offers spacious living areas perfect for relaxing and entertaining. (Not far from the new Kalahari Resort
New construction single family home with 2 car garages. Upgraded kitchen and bathrooms .4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms with finished walkout basement. Large new deck and lower level patio. Community amenities with outdoor community pool.
Welcome to your next home in the beautiful, amenity-rich community of Lake of the Woods, Virginia. This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community charm—all for $2,550 per month. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the inviting curb appeal, complete with a charming covered front porch that’s perfect for enjoying your
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