Beartree Recreation Area

About

Beartree Recreation Area is a well-developed campground nestled in the highlands of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, within the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Located at approximately 3,600 feet elevation about 9 miles east of Damascus, Virginia, the campground features 70 individual sites divided between two loops: Chipmunk Circle and Beaver Flats. Group camping is available in a separate loop with four walk-in tent clusters and four paved RV clusters. Each campsite includes a parking spur, lantern post, fire grill, and picnic table. Sites are generally well-spaced and secluded from neighbors. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in some units, though no hookups are available. A dump station is located near the campground exit. When fully operational, bathhouses provide flush toilets, warm showers, sinks, and drinking water. The recreation area centers on Beartree Lake, which offers fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating when open. Nearby trails include the Beartree Lake Trail and connections to the Virginia Creeper Trail. The campground operates seasonally from mid-May through late October, with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Gate hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Directions

From I-81 Southbound: Take exit 29 and turn left on State Route 91 South for 13 miles. In Damascus, at the intersection of State Route 91 South and U.S. 58 East, continue on U.S. 58 East for approximately seven miles. The campground is on the left. From I-81 Northbound: Take exit 19 at Abingdon. Turn right and continue on U.S. 58 East for 12 miles to Damascus. Continue on U.S. 58 East another seven miles to the campground on the left.