Bear Creek State Park
1,700-acre lake with camping, beach, and equestrian trails.
Best activities?
1,700-acre lake with camping, beach, and equestrian trails.
Location & Getting There
Bear Creek State Park is located in Virginia. The park’s coordinates are 37.1317, -78.6603. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Virginia
- Coordinates: 37.1317, -78.6603
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
Virginia state parks span from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, offering remarkable geographic diversity. Activities include hiking along Appalachian ridgelines and through lush mountain forests, swimming at lake and river beaches, fishing in mountain streams and tidal waters, camping in diverse settings, kayaking coastal rivers and mountain lakes, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and exploring centuries of American history from colonial Jamestown through the Civil War.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (October) is extraordinary, as Virginia’s Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley produce stunning foliage. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather. Summer (June–August) is peak season for lake swimming and family camping. Winter is mild enough for hiking in most of the state, with occasional snow adding beauty to mountain parks.
Visitor Tips
Virginia state parks charge a parking fee ($7-$10 per vehicle) on weekends and holidays from spring through fall, though weekday visits are often free. Camping and cabin reservations through dcr.virginia.gov. Virginia’s state parks are known for their well-maintained cabin and lodge accommodations. Popular parks like Shenandoah River and First Landing fill quickly for summer weekends.
Explore More Virginia State Parks
Bear Creek State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Virginia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Virginia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
