Claytor Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Claytor Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Claytor Lake today is 18.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 20.7°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.5°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.9°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.2°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.9°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 20.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 20.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 20.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.5°C | 18.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 20.5°C | 19.1°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| February | 1°C | 10°C | 19°C |
| March | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| April | 8°C | 17°C | 25°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| October | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| November | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| December | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
Claytor Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Claytor Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Claytor Lake’s surface waters vary considerably through the year. In spring the lake typically cools from around 45–65°F (7–18°C) as runoff and cooler air temperatures dominate; by summer surface temperatures commonly reach about 70–82°F (21–28°C) on warm days, making the water most comfortable for recreational use. Autumn brings gradual cooling, often placing the lake in the 55–70°F (13–21°C) range, while winter temperatures can fall to roughly 32–45°F (0–7°C) at the surface, depending on air chill and ice conditions in sheltered coves. These are general seasonal ranges; local weather, depth, and inflow from the New River can shift temperatures from day to day.
Swimming is permitted at Claytor Lake, primarily in designated areas such as the swim beach at Claytor Lake State Park, where the park provides controlled public access for bathing and wading. The reason swimming is limited to marked spots is safety: the reservoir supports boating and fishing, has variable depths and submerged structures, and has currents near the dam and spillways that can be hazardous. Visitors are advised to follow posted rules, heed any advisories, and consider water temperature before entering—colder shoulder-season waters can cause shock or hypothermia even when daytime air feels mild.