Lake Front Royal Community Introduction
Lake Front Royal is a beautiful forested community. I grew up here and am proud to call it my home. It is a perfect, secluded area to get away from the busy life of DC and the more dense areas of Northern Virginia. Due to the continued growth of Front Royal, this neighborhood on the outskirts of town is also expanding.
Lake Front Royal is only a 5-minute drive to town, and the closest grocery store is 6 minutes! Residents are close to everything they need while maintaining the picturesque, mountain vibe at home.
It is ideal for those who need their own space. The houses are not stacked on top of each other and almost all have a big backyard for your kids or dogs to run around and play. When I was younger my brother, sister, and I would play out in our yard and the forest around my house all the time. Since I grew up in the mountains, playing in the woods has made me really appreciate nature.
Neighbors tend to keep to themselves, yet everyone is super friendly. When you're out walking your dog or just getting some fresh air, you're bound to pass a smiling face and be greeted by a wave. There is also a neighborhood Facebook page in which we have discussions, organize community events, and ask each other for help. That is actually where I compiled most of the pictures, quotes, and testimonials from!
Experience the Outdoors: Northern Virginia Hiking, Fishing, and Wildlife
Throughout the year the community displays its diverse beauty as the seasons change. Residents get to experience the Northern Virginia wildlife up close and personal. During the spring and summer months, you can expect to hear the birds and frogs singing, see deer grazing, and be surrounded by lush greenery. Nothing beats being immersed in nature.
For those who love hiking, this area would be perfect for you. In Front Royal, there is an entrance to Shenandoah National Park. You can also hike much, much closer to home. There are two parts of the Appalachian Trail adjacent to the entrance of the community.
The Northern Virginia (NOVA) 4-H Conference and Educational Center is on the same mountain. They are an amazing facilitator for leadership and nature education. I went to the Center a lot growing up. I had fun and learned important skills through school field trips and by attending 4-H camp.
The main trailhead has a parking area in front of it. If you're driving from Front Royal it'll be on
your right, you can't miss it. There is also a shortcut to the trail from inside the community. You can find it by walking around the perimeter of the lake. Continue until you are totally on the other side of the lake. Then cut through the tree line parallel to the lakeside. Then you're on the trail! Easy!
The other trail is across the highway leaving the community. It's right next to the bed and breakfast. You are going to be walking alongside the gate of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute for the first part of the hike. Don't worry you're allowed to be there.
The lake is also exclusive to Lake Front Royal residents and their guests. Private lake access is a bonus and it's definitely put to good use by community members. The lake is mostly used by residents for fishing. The most common fish caught, according to self-reported catches, are Largemouth Bass, Spotted Bass, and Bluegill. Only "non-motorized small craft, such as small row and sailboats, are permitted on the lake," according to Lake Front Royal POA.
If you're a big hiker, fisher, or just a fan of seclusion and nature, then this is most definitely the neighborhood for you.
Testimonials from Neighbors
Don't just take my word! Hear from my neighbors.
I reached out to some of my neighbors to get their opinion on the area. So you can hear what it's like from others in the community. These are the questions I asked: What are some of the things you love about living in Lake Front Royal? What makes the community special to you?
“Hi Zach! My husband is originally from California and he loves this area. The beautiful scenery is a major plus, having the Appalachian trail so close is awesome as well. We especially like how the houses aren’t on top of each other and there’s plenty of room for our dog to run and play and our daughter to run around without having to be right next to her. We feel safe in our neighborhood and appreciate that the neighbors are friendly but also keep to themselves. It’s a great place to live!” - Carleigh H. "We live in such an awesome place. So much wildlife and beauty." - Kathleen R.
"We are transplants to VA and have [fallen] in love with the area. There are so many outdoorsy, adventurous things to do and we love all of the small businesses and how everyone tries to buy/shop local. We have also found our neighbors very friendly and willing to help out if needed." - Katie T. "Zach, it’s simple it’s home. I built my house here [and] raised my children here. We live in the mountains and [are] still close to town. I love how people reach out on snowy and icy days to make sure everyone [is] home safe. I do agree with Carleigh neighbors have their own lives but [are] ready to help if needed." - Linda K. “Each [season] is so special. [The] spring with all the trees coming out, the redbuds, the summer with the frogs singing, fall when all the trees change color, and winter with fresh snow.” - Sharon S-H.
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