Beartree Recreation Area
4.2634 reviews20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA
Beartree Recreation Area
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard fee for single campsites is $24 per day. Double campsites cost $48 per day. Discounts of 50% apply to the base campsite fee for holders of the America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes. No day use fees are charged for the 2025 season. A $5 fee applies for using the dump station.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Jefferson National Forest, Beartree Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its enchanting blend of mountain serenity and natural splendor. Here, where Beartree Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks, you'll discover a campground that feels like a secret garden in the clouds. Choose your perfect basecamp in either Chipmunk Circle or Beaver Flat, where each thoughtfully designed site nestles beneath a canopy of ancient trees and flowering rhododendron tunnels. Whether you're pitching a tent on soft forest floor or parking your RV in a spacious pull-through, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where privacy meets paradise.
Beartree Recreation Area supports a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites, and group camping options. "There are 35 camping units in Chipmunk Circle and 35 in Beaver Flats." Both loops cater to standard and large RVs, and walk-in tent clusters are available.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds on storied ground, where centuries of footsteps have worn paths through these ancient mountains. The legendary Virginia Creeper Trail, visible from the campground, began as a Cherokee trading route before Daniel Boone and other pioneers blazed their way westward along its winding course. From 1907 to 1977, steam engines chugged through these valleys, hauling timber and connecting mountain communities. Today, this historic corridor invites you to pedal or hike through living history, where every mile tells a tale of transformation from wilderness to rail line to beloved recreational treasure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full symphony of Appalachian seasons at 3,400 feet, where spring arrives in a cascade of wildflowers and gentle rains that awaken the forest. Summer brings warm days perfect for lake adventures, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 80°F, while afternoon showers keep the landscape perpetually green and vibrant. As autumn paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons, crisp air and temperatures in the 40s create ideal conditions for campfire gatherings. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter wonderland, with frosty mornings and the possibility of snow dusting the evergreens.
ElevationPerched at 3,400 feet above sea level, Beartree offers a true mountain escape where the air feels fresher and the stars shine brighter. This elevated sanctuary provides natural air conditioning during summer months, with temperatures running 10-15 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The altitude creates a unique ecosystem where northern and southern species mingle, offering campers the rare opportunity to wake to the songs of birds typically found much farther north, all while surrounded by the distinctive mountain flora that thrives in this sweet spot between earth and sky.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where towering hemlocks and pines stretch skyward, their branches intertwining to create nature's own vaulted ceiling. The campground's landscape reads like a botanist's wish list: wild magnolias perfume the air in spring, while summer brings explosions of rhododendron blooms that transform the understory into pink and purple galleries. Crystal-clear mountain streams weave through the property like silver ribbons, their gentle babbling providing nature's soundtrack for your stay. Early risers might spot deer grazing in meadow clearings, while evening brings a chorus of tree frogs and the haunting call of owls echoing across the water.
Geological RegionCradled in a natural bowl between protective mountain peaks, Beartree Recreation Area showcases the stunning biodiversity of the Jefferson National Forest. This geological embrace creates a microclimate where northern hemlocks thrive alongside southern magnolias, and where ancient rock formations peek through carpets of moss and fern. The landscape tells a million-year story written in stone and soil, where weathered ridges frame intimate valleys filled with the region's signature mix of evergreen and deciduous forest. Springs bubble up from hidden aquifers, feeding the streams that have carved gentle hollows perfect for camping, creating an environment that feels both wild and welcoming.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are wheelchair-accessible fishing piers and trails, including the Beartree Lake Trail. Wheelchair-friendly toilets are also listed.
Sites SizeCampsites in Chipmunk Circle are described as having larger parking aprons, while Beaver Flat is considered more tent-friendly.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are reportedly secluded and private, with many nestled in Rhododendron groves. "Most of the campsites you can't see your neighbors," and they are "beautiful and odd" with "dense mountain cover."
Total Campsites73 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChipmunk Circle offers larger parking aprons, making it better for RV campers, while Beaver Flat is more suitable for tent camping. Sites nestled among the rhododendron groves offer more privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Group Loop offers four walk-in tent clusters and four paved RV clusters for reservation. "Only one shower stall for the entire group camping area," and some users mentioned the lack of sufficient facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops, Chipmunk Circle and Beaver Flat, connected by a central playground area. Group sites are located in separate clusters.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operation: Open from April 28 to October 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although the exact number is unspecified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy specifics are not provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Beartree Recreation Area offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. "Relax at this popular, yet peaceful recreation area beside Beartree Lake complete with campsites, a picnic area, nearby trails, and a scenic lake." Wildlife viewing and exploring historical trails like the Appalachian Trail are highlights for visitors.
Hiking
Hiking options include trails like Shaw Gap Trail (1 mile), Beaver Flats Trail (0.5 miles), Straight Branch Trail (1.5 miles), Lum Trail (1 mile), and the wheelchair-friendly Beartree Lake Trail (1 mile). The Virginia Creeper Trail is nearby, offering 33.4 miles for non-motorized use.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include species like Smallmouth bass, Sunfish, Rainbow, and Brown trout. "There are two wheelchair-friendly fishing piers." Virginia state fishing regulations apply.Swimming
Swimming is available at Beartree Lake, which features a 300 ft. sandy beach. However, some reviews noted the lake was "dark brown/black" and the beach was "filthy."Biking
The Virginia Creeper Trail, ideal for mountain biking, is accessible from the campground. This historic trail stretches 33.4 miles and is for non-motorized use only.Boating
Boating is limited to self-propelled or electric trolling-motor boats. A user noted paddle boats were available for rent.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife sightings are reported, including songbirds and rabbits. "Wildlife, including various songbirds and rabbits, can be found in the campground."Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the 300 ft. sandy beach at Beartree Lake. However, user reviews flagged maintenance issues, such as the need for new sand.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding and canoeing are implied but not explicitly detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits and grills at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in bear country and requires strict adherence to food storage guidelines. The presence of coyotes has also been noted.
Active alertsBeartree Recreation Area is closed for the 2025 season, and restrooms and potable water are not available during this time.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area Office, Pat Jennings Visitors Center, 3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA 24354, Phone: 276-783-5196, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season occurs between mid-May and late October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. However, some reviews noted issues with cleanliness at the dump station, which may indicate garbage management challenges.
Proximity to water featuresBeartree Lake, a 14-acre lake with a 300-ft sandy beach, is located 3 miles south of the campground's entrance.
Common complaintsMany reviews have criticized the inconsistent quality of the facilities, including reports of yellow water, malfunctioning dump stations, and closed bathhouses. Some visitors also expressed dissatisfaction with the campground staff.
HostCampground hosts have been described as inconsistent, with some reviews highlighting helpful and friendly staff, while others recount negative experiences with unaccommodating and rude behavior.
Campground Map
20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA
Driving directionsFrom I-81 Southbound: 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 East, continue on US 58 East for approximately 7 miles. The campground is on the left. From I-81 Northbound: Take exit 19 at Abingdon. Turn right and continue on 58 East for 12 miles to Damascus. Continue on US 58 East another 7 miles to the campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with adequate signage directing visitors to the site. The roads are described as accommodating for vehicles up to 40 feet in some units.Nearby places
Damascus (9 miles)
Abingdon (approximately 19 miles)
Marion (approximately 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies and groceries can be found in Damascus, approximately 9 miles from the campground. Damascus offers restaurants, grocery stores, and bike rental shops for access to the Virginia Creeper Trail.
Camper Reviews
4.3
34 reviews
Beartree Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Beartree Recreation Area are highly diverse. While many appreciate the natural beauty and seclusion of the campsites, concerns about maintenance, including water quality and outdated facilities, are common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful and odd campground;" "Large spacious sites, tall trees, and lush foliage;" "Privacy between sites is excellent;" "Great access to trails like the Virginia Creeper Trail."
Based on 34 reviewsCommon Concerns
"The water from spigots was a strange deep yellow color;" "Facilities in need of an upgrade;" "Interaction with some staff was negative, including unhelpful assistance during an emergency;" "Closed...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring your own drinking water;" "Check reservation policies carefully;" "Use the group camping loop if other facilities are closed."
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the lush forest cover providing shade, while fall reviews note the incredible foliage. Winter is not recommended due to accessibility challenges.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bear Tree is beautiful. The attendants are jerks;" "The campground itself, fantastic!" "Beautiful place in dense forest. Most of the campsites you can't see your neighbors."
Based on 34 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Chipmunk Circle is noted for larger parking aprons, Beaver Flats for being more tent-friendly. Group Loop users highlighted the lack of sufficient shower facilities.
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly trails and fishing piers are appreciated, but closed bathhouses and inaccessible paths during certain seasons pose challenges.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed. A user noted, "Please keep your pet on a leash when in a recreation area."
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025