State Parks and National Parks

Bear Creek Lake State Park

This intimate state park is nestled in the heart of Cumberland State Forest. Its 326 acres are a peaceful haven in Virginia's Cumberland County.

Park activities center around 40-acre Bear Creek Lake, built in 1938 by local carpenters, farmers and unskilled laborers. Today, most lake construction involves an active family of beavers.

Fishing stock includes bream, channel catfish, largemouth bass and crappie. Non-gasoline-powered boats are permitted on the lake and canoe and rowboat rentals are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The park's five hiking trails intersect with the Willis River Trail, a 16-mile trail used by hikers. The park also offers a trailhead to the 18-mile Cumberland Multi-Use Trail for hiking, biking and horseback riding.

Two campgrounds, open March to December, offer 41 drive-in sites. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, 53 campsites are available. Camping reservations are required.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.