​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​As a valuable aesthetic resource, the area offers opportunities for passive recreational uses, such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, nature observation, and photography. In 2001, the City of Virginia Beach purchased the 1,422-acre property known as Stumpy Lake from the City of Norfolk through its Open Space Program.

A canoe/kayak launch is located just after the causeway from Indian River Road near the entrance to the Stumpy Lake Golf Course. Designed for non-motorized vessels, the launch is also fully ADA-compliant. There is a small picnic shelter nearby. Parking spaces are available for 12 cars and two trailers.

Learn more about the Master Plan for Stumpy Lake Natural Area.