LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Hyco Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Hyco Falls (historical)
Hyco Falls (historical) is listed as a waterfall site within the John H. Kerr Reservoir land unit and is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE); the parcel owner is recorded as DESG with a REC designation. The feature is described as historical, meaning its original waterfall form and immediate surroundings may have been altered or lost over time, and on-the-ground presence and access are uncertain. Visitors should plan for the possibility that no obvious cascade remains at the mapped location. For hikers curious about visiting the area, sources note a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs roughly 350 feet and is rated moderate — though this route information should be treated as approximate given the site’s historical status and unclear access. If you’re planning an overnight stay, Buffalo Park campground lies about 9.01 km away and provides the nearest developed camping option under the USACE-managed reservoir lands.
The Setting
Hyco Falls (historical) sits at 299 feet within John H. Kerr Reservoir, fed by the Dan River, in the coastal lowlands of Virginia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail data for the Hyco Falls (historical) route is limited. Reported attributes: 2.4 miles round trip (out-and-back), approximately 350 feet of elevation gain, difficulty rated moderate. There is no USFS trail name or number associated with this site; the land unit is John H. Kerr Reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and surface, grade, and formal trail class are not documented. Expect unmarked or informal tread and potentially altered terrain; confirm access with USACE or local landowner records before setting out. Nearest developed camping: Buffalo Park, ~9.01 km away.
What to Expect
Visitors should not expect a traditional waterfall experience. The site may no longer feature a visible waterfall, and the surrounding area may have changed significantly over time.
Accessibility
Accessibility is unknown due to the uncertain status of the site.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hyco Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hyco Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
There is no specific best time to visit, as the site may no longer feature a waterfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the area, as the terrain may be unmaintained or private property. Verify access rights before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
568 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 10 years of record
5.10 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DAN RIVER AT SOUTH BOSTON, VA (15 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
584 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
554 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
657 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
681 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
627 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
471 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
482 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late February, peaking in February.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Scottsburg hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Hyco Falls is unclear, as it is considered a historical site. It may have been located near the Hyco River area in southern Virginia. Visitors should research local historical records or consult with local authorities for more information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking information is unavailable due to the uncertain status of the site. Visitors should inquire locally if attempting to locate the area.
Elevation
299 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.684584° N, -78.728339° W
Land Management
Managed by USACE
Visitor Tips & Gear
Research the history of Hyco Falls and the surrounding area before planning a visit. Contact local historical societies or government offices for more information.
Where to Stay
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott South Boston
Microtel Inn Suites by Wyndham South Hill
Comfort Inn & Suites South Hill I-85
Fairfield Inn and Suites South Hill I-85
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
BUFFALO PARK
5.6 miles away · 22 sites
Overview Buffalo Park is a small day use and campground park, located on John H. Kerr Reservoir. The campground is open May 1 - September 30. The Day Use Park is open year-around. Kerr, also known as Buggs Island Lake, is a 50,000-acre lake that extends 39 miles up the wooded, cove-studded shoreline of the Roanoke River in Virginia and North Carolina. Kerr Reservoir was created with the construction of the John H. Kerr Dam in 1952. Its 800 miles of wooded shoreline stretch across six counties in
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Hyco River and surrounding areas in southern Virginia may offer other natural or historical points of interest.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area may include typical species found in southern Virginia, such as deer, birds, and small mammals.
Cities near Hyco Falls (historical)
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