Stumpy Lake Natural Area encompasses a 278-acre freshwater lake surrounded by 970+ acres of undeveloped forest in Virginia Beach.

The lake is named for the bald cypress trees that grow in and around the water, creating a distinctive swampy environment with trees literally growing out of the water.

**Access and Facilities**: A fully ADA-compliant canoe/kayak launch is located just after the causeway from Indian River Road near the entrance to Stumpy Lake Golf Course.

The launch is designed specifically for non-motorized vessels only - motorized boats are prohibited. Parking is available for 12 cars and two trailers, with overflow parking at the golf course. A small picnic shelter and porta-potty restrooms are nearby.

Self-service kayak rental kiosks are available through the Rent. Fun app ($25 for 2 hours, $15 per additional hour). **Paddling Experience**: The lake offers opportunities to navigate between cypress trees and explore various inlets.

A half-hour paddle from the launch leads to particularly scenic areas with abundant bird life and cypress groves. The calm waters make it suitable for beginners and ideal for moonlight paddling experiences.

**Wildlife and Natural Features**: The lake supports over 200 bird species, including prothonotary warblers, bald eagles, great egrets, herons, cormorants, and ducks. During late summer through fall, great egrets are particularly abundant.

The area also hosts anhingas occasionally in summer and attracts migrating shorebirds in fall. Lucky visitors may spot North American river otters.

The lake margin produces aquatic plants like lizard's tail and buttonbush that attract numerous butterfly species. **Safety Considerations**: Swimming is prohibited. Visitors should avoid crossing the golf course fairways and greens.

Fishing and photography are not permitted on or along the causeway for safety reasons. Life jackets are required and included with rentals.

**Character**: The lake provides a unique paddling experience through a cypress swamp environment, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and nature study in a relatively undisturbed freshwater ecosystem.