Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground
Stephanie J.
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2018

Well maintained with lots of recreational activities

Part of the VA State Park system, BCL is exceptionally well-maintained. Most of the site are RV accessible, but there are a few tent-only sites along the lake, which is where we stayed. These sites are absolutely beautiful--great lake views, and while the only swimming allowed is at the roped off beach area, there is a canoe launch and fishing opportunities right at the campsites.

The tent pads are filled with shredded tires instead of gravel or dirt, which provides a little extra cushion, but can be uncomfortable on bare feet.

All sites have fire rings, lantern hooks, and extra long picnic tables. Tent pads are of varying sizes--we stayed in site A12 and our 6 person tent fit easily, and we could have fit a second one-many of our camp neighbors had 10 person tents set up.

The water view loop was not heavily trafficked, though the water does provide a hazard if you have small children as it is not roped off in any way. Our kids loved having the water right there and we loved watching them, it just requires extra vigilance. Loops B and C have more sites that are very shady but closer together, and there is more vehicle and bicycle traffic going past campsites.

Bathrooms are clean, and have showers and electrical outlets to charge devices if needed.

The park has lots of hiking, including trails that go directly from the camp sites to the swimming area, boat/canoe rentals, cabins, fishing, and a lakeside diner that sells concessions. Campsites allegedly have Wifi though we did not test this to see how reliable it is.

Cumberland County is only at 455' elevation, so the heat and humidity in the summer is intense--we were very uncomfortable our first night because of this, so fall would probably be the best time to go as it is when central Virginia has the best weather.

SiteA12
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground by Stephanie J., July 14, 2018