The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed the John H. Kerr Dam across the Roanoke River between 1947 and 1952 to produce hydroelectricity as well as for flood control.

[2] Survivors returned to the area by 1714, seeking refuge and support at the newly created Fort Christanna in then-vast Brunswick County, Virginia.

Camping is also popular, with various campgrounds operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, North Carolina State Parks and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Campsites range from primitive (for tents), to yurts, cabins, and some campgrounds feature equestrian (with stables) and RVs electric and water hookups.

The Virginia state record blue catfish, which weighed 143 pounds (65 kg), was caught at Buggs Island Lake on June 18, 2011 by angler Richard Nicholas "Nick" Alexander.

[4] The North Carolina state record freshwater drum was caught in Kerr Reservoir on March 20, 2013 on a plastic fluke lure.