Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground, near Damascus, Virginia, is a peaceful spot that offers a great escape into nature. With sites surrounded by thick rhododendron bushes and a mountain spring creek running through, it’s a beautiful place to set up camp.
The campground features clean facilities, including restrooms and hot showers, which visitors appreciate after a day of hiking. Many campers have noted the spaciousness of the sites, allowing for a sense of privacy even when the campground is busy. One reviewer mentioned, “The sites were clean with running water and restroom/shower facilities a short walk away.”
For outdoor lovers, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby, making it easy to explore the stunning scenery of the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Families will also enjoy the playground and the nearby lake, perfect for a quiet afternoon. As one camper put it, “It is very quiet, exceptionally clean, and we really enjoyed our three-day stay.”
While the campground is remote and offers a chance to unplug, it’s still equipped with essential amenities like drinking water and picnic tables. If you’re looking for a serene spot to unwind and connect with nature, Beartree Campground is definitely worth considering.
Description
Overview
Beartree offers a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities. Located in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, the campground boasts a sprawling layout with both group and individual campsites. A small creek flows through the campground, offering a refreshing spot to wade and fish. Beartree Lake is also located within the recreation area, providing an ideal spot for fishing.
Recreation
The campground offers a 14-acre lake with two fishing piers. Smallmouth bass, sunfish, rainbow and brown trout are all possible catches. Self-propelled or electric trolling-motor boats only. State fishing and boating regulations and licensing requirements apply. The Beartree Lake Trail, which circles the lake, is excellent for hiking. Half of the trail is paved for an easier walk.
Facilities
There are 35 camping units in Chipmunk Circle and 35 units in Beaver Flats available for tents and RVs. Some sites are available for reservations while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each unit has a parking spur, lantern post, fire grill and picnic table, and most sites are secluded from other sites. Bathhouses with toilets, warm showers, sinks, and drinking water are provided. Four walk-in tent group sites and 4 paved RV group sites are available in Group Loop for reservation. Recreation vehicles up to 40 feet can be accommodated in some units. Picnic area and group picnic shelter is available at beach area. A dump station (no water) is located on the left side of the road before the contact station as you enter the campground.
Natural Features
The campground is located in diverse vegetation, and Beartree Lake is surrounded by dense trees that meet the shoreline. The Mount Rogers Scenic Byway passes near the campground, highlighting the impressive valleys, mountains, forests and rural countrysides of western Virginia.
Nearby Attractions
Hike the Appalachian Trail, which extends more than 2,175 miles throughout the Appalachian Mountains across 14 states. The trail was designated as the first National Scenic Trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail, Hungry Mother State Park and Grayson Highlands State Park are nearby.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (800) 628-7202.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Beartree Campground will open Chipmunk Loop starting on May 14th and stay open until further notice. All sites in Chipmunk will be first-come, first-served. There will be no water available in Chipmunk Loop until we can get some maintenance done on the well. Bathrooms will be closed. There will be a portable toilet available near site 11 and a host in site 11. Customers will need to bring all water that they will need. The picnic area will be Closed while we do maintenance on the area and may remain closed for the remainder of 2026. If you have any questions please email them to sm.fs.mrnra@usda.gov or call the office at 276-783-5196. Beartree Lake/Beach Area/Day Use Area Closed. To enhance wildlife habitat and recreation, Beartree Lake has been drained so organic material can be removed from the lakebed. Fishing, swimming, and paddling are not permitted until the lake is replenished. Beach bathrooms will be closed, and potable water will not be available for the remainder of the season.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsJefferson National Forest Beartree Campground is located in Virginia near Whitetop
Directions
Beartree Campground is located at 20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA, approximately 9 miles from the town of Damascus. From I-81 South take exit 29 and turn left on Hwy 91 South for 13 miles. In Damascus, at the intersection of Hwy 91 South and US 58, continue to US 58 East for approximately 7 miles. The campground is on the left.From I-81 North take exit 19. Turn right and continue on US 58 East for 12 miles to Damascus. Continue on US 58 East another 7 miles to the campground on the left.
Address
20993 Beartree Gap Road
Damascus, VA 24236
Coordinates
36.6847222 N
81.6472222 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from Kingsport, TN
- 1 hr 13 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 36 min from Blacksburg, VA
- 1 hr 52 min from Beckley, WV




























