Bear Creek Lake State Park is a 326-acre (132 ha) state park located in Cumberland, Virginia, United States. It is a recreational and camping facility that surrounds an artificial 40-acre (16 ha) lake situated in the 16,000-acre (6,500 ha) Cumberland State Forest. As of 2013, the yearly visitation was 78,288.[4]
Bear Creek Lake State Park | |
---|---|
Location of Bear Creek Lake State Park Bear Creek Lake State Park (the United States) | |
Location | 22 Bear Creek Lake Rd., near Cumberland, VA |
Coordinates | 37°31′54″N 78°16′21″W / 37.53167°N 78.27250°W |
Area | 329 acres (133 ha)[1] |
Established | 1940 |
Governing body | Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation |
Bear Creek Lake State Park | |
NRHP reference No. | 12000904[2] |
VLR No. | 024-0034 |
Significant dates | |
Added to NRHP | October 31, 2012 |
Designated VLR | September 18, 2008[3] |
Bear Creek Lake was built by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938 as a project of the Virginia Department of Agriculture through the State Forestry Division. The lake was built using labor from local carpenters, farmers and un-skilled laborers seeking jobs. In addition to the lake, two pavilions, a concession stand and six fireplaces were constructed. In 1940, the area opened as a forestry wayside with boat rentals and swimming. In 1958, the area was given to the Division of State Parks and was operated as a day-use recreation area. In 1962 the division added campgrounds and the area's name was changed to Bear Creek Lake State Park.[5]
The park features a 40-acre (16 ha) lake with a boat launch, fishing pier, boat rentals and a swimming beach. Visitors will also find a meeting facility, cabins, camping, picnicking, an archery range and playgrounds. Guests also enjoy the park's nine trails and access to the adjoining 16,000-acre (6,500 ha) Cumberland State Forest, including the 14-mile (23 km) Cumberland Multi-use Trail. This trail is available for hiking, biking and horseback riding.[6]