If you’re considering buying or vacationing at Lake Anna, one of the first things you’ll hear is talk about the “public” and “private” sides of the lake. But what does that really mean—and how does it impact your experience or investment? Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or just get the lay of the land, understanding the key differences between Lake Anna’s two sides is essential.
The Four Key Differences Between Lake Anna’s Sides
1. Water Temperature
Lake Anna is a man-made lake that supports the nearby local power plant. This unique origin is what creates the lake’s famous temperature split:
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- Private side (warm side): Receives water discharged from the power plant, making it roughly 14 degrees warmer than the public side.
- Public side (cold side): Pulls in the cooler, untreated water used for the plant’s intake.
This temperature difference means that residents and vacationers on the private side often enjoy a longer boating and swimming season, sometimes well into October or even November.
2. Commercial Activity
This is where the experience starts to really diverge:
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- Public side: Offers restaurants and marinas that are accessible by boat. Want to grab lunch waterside or rent a jet ski? The public side has you covered.
- Private side: Zoning laws prohibit commercial development, creating a quieter, more residential environment.
3. Size of the Lake
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- Public side: Approximately two-thirds of Lake Anna’s 13,000 acres.
- Private side: The remaining one-third.
Although the private side is smaller, it never feels cramped. As Grayson Hoffman explains, “If you don’t know your way around, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the two.”
4. Access to the Water
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- Public side: True to its name, this side includes public entry points. You don’t need to own property to go fishing or swimming.
- Private side: Access is strictly for property owners and their guests. This exclusivity limits boat traffic and provides a more peaceful water experience.
Does Location Impact Real Estate Value or Rental Income?
Here’s the good news: it doesn’t. “There is absolutely no difference in the real estate value of property on either side of the lake,” says Grayson Hoffman. Both sides support thriving short-term rental markets. In fact:
- In 2024, the top-performing rental was on the public side, earning about $450,000 in gross income.
- In 2025, that crown may go to a private side rental expected to bring in $500,000.
The side of the lake isn’t what determines success—it’s the quality of the property, location, and guest experience that matter most.
So Which Side Is Right for You?
Choosing between the public and private sides depends on your lifestyle and priorities. Do you love dining out and being in the center of activity? The public side might be for you. Prefer tranquility, warm waters, and a tight-knit residential feel? The private side could be your haven.
Thinking of Making Lake Anna Home?
As a full-time resident and agent, Grayson Hoffman is here to help you navigate the Lake Anna real estate landscape. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our team has the local expertise to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s find your perfect spot on the lake—reach out today to share your real estate goals.