Moneta is located in Bedford County in the central region of Virginia. The rural nature of this part of Virginia lends it to outdoor activities. With a population of 60,371 Bedford County, has many people that come here to escape the hustle of city life.

One of the biggest attractions in Moneta is Smith Mountain Lake. It was created to generate electricity, and to help manage water flows downstream and nearby. The damming of the Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers formed Smith Mountain Lake in a filling process that began on September 24, 1963 -- and ended almost 2.5 years later on March 7, 1966. Smith Mountain Lake stretches part of its 200,000 acres and 500 miles of shoreline into the town of Moneta. Surrounded by mountains, Smith Mountain Lake's deepest point is about 250 feet, near the dam itself. The "average" depth is 55 feet. Outside the lake's many coves, 80-150 feet is typical. Smith Mountain Lake water purity is excellent. Water temperatures invite swimming from May through September. Smith Mountain Lake is known for its myriad of outdoor activities including its outstanding fishing, especially for striped bass. The lake has hosted professional fishing tournaments. Boating, sunrise or sunset cruises, water skiing, wakeboarding, riding personal watercraft, and sailing are also common activities. Smith Mountain Lake State Park opened in 1983 and provided a beach and a section for swimming.

Smith Mountain Lake is home to about 18,000 permanent residents. It covers parts of three Virginia counties: Franklin County, Bedford County, and Pittsylvania County. Average air temperatures are 73F in summer and 41F in winter. Annual rainfall averages 43 inches. Annual snowfall averages 10 inches, but the snow usually melts in a day or two.

The lake was featured prominently in the 1991 movie comedy What About Bob?, directed by Frank Oz and starring Bill Murray, Richard Dreyfuss and Julie Hagerty. It served as the stand-in for Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire.
With all the activities to do in Moneta Virginia, its no wonder people are flocking here to enjoy the lake. In addition to the outdoor activities Moneta has excellent shopping for those more inclined to stay inside. With affordable home décor available in town the possibilities are endless. Between the shopping and outdoor activities Moneta Virginia offers something for the entire family.

With all the activities to do in Moneta Virginia, its no wonder people are flocking here to enjoy the lake. In addition to the outdoor activities Moneta has excellent shopping for those more inclined to stay inside. With affordable home decor available in town the possibilities are endless. Between the shopping and outdoor activities Moneta Virginia offers something for the entire family