About BEARTREE
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 Appalac
How to Get There
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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BEARTREE
Heading to BEARTREE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BEARTREE?
No central reservation system listed for BEARTREE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232384) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BEARTREE?
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 Ea…
How do I contact BEARTREE?
You can reach the park at email: sm.fs.mrnra@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources
