It has a small, developed watershed covering 64 square miles (170 km2), terminating at Lynnhaven Bay.
It was once famous along the East Coast of the United States for its oysters, which declined through pollution and runoff.
[1] A proposed comprehensive project for ecosystem restoration of the Lynnhaven River Basin is currently[when?]
The bay was a convenient harbor for coast-wise shipping in the colonial period.
In 1807, it was the site of a British squadron of ships, from whence sailed HMS Leopard in its engagement and capture of USS Chesapeake.