a few days(try to rent during the week, for best rates). Do all the things you think you might do on the lake, like canoe, kyak, or fish.

We did that on Claytor lake a few weeks back. First time on a lake vs a beach house. We like it, but now know some things to look out for when looking for land.... such as boat traffic flow, or where debris typically gets piled up after a storm.... or, which way we would want a house to face.

Experiencing all that first-hand might change your decision on where to get a house. You certainly don't want any surprises. Renting first might save you thousands of dollars.