Lake Pelham (also known as Lake Culpeper) is a 255-acre water supply reservoir in Culpeper, Virginia, characterized by forested and open sloped banks along its shores. The lake offers a calm paddling environment with no motorized boats allowed except for electric motors, making it particularly suitable for families and beginner paddlers.

Access is available via the Lake Pelham Boat Ramp at 1081 Lake Pelham Drive, with additional parking and launch facilities behind The Ole Country Store & Bakery. Watercraft rentals are available through Lake Culpeper Adventures, offering kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and paddle boats. Rental hours run Monday through Saturday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sundays 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the May-October season, weather permitting.

Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, particularly around the reed edges where paddlers can spot wood ducks, American coots, and pied-billed grebes. During winter months, the lake hosts rafts of American widgeon, gadwall, northern shoveler, and ruddy ducks. Belted kingfishers frequent the numerous dead snags, and occasional ospreys can be observed. The shoreline attracts diverse dragonfly species including prince baskettail, eastern pondhawk, and common whitetail, along with eastern painted turtles that often sun themselves in groups.

Required equipment includes properly fitted life jackets for all paddlers, which are provided with rentals. A boating permit is required for visitors bringing their own watercraft. The lake features a combination of open water and shoreline paddling opportunities, with residential development occurring along some sections of the shore.

Facilities at the access point include parking and boat ramps, though amenities are limited - there are no picnic tables, restrooms, or hiking trails. The lake is also popular for fishing, particularly known for its abundant channel catfish population, which can enhance the paddling experience for those interested in combining activities.