Beartree Recreation Area

Chipmunk Loop in Beartree Campground is now open for primitive camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the ongoing rebuilding of utility lines into the Beartree Recreation Area, there will be no power, water or bath houses provided. A Portable toilet is located across from site 11. Sites 5 and 18 remained closed.

A trailer waste disposal station is located near the campground’s exit. Recreation vehicles up to 40 feet can be accommodated in some units.

Current Conditions

To enhance wildlife habitat and recreation, Beartree Lake has been drained so organic material can be removed from the lakebed. Fishing, swimming and paddling are not permitted until the lake is replenished. Beach bathrooms will be closed, and potable water will not be available for the remainder of the season. The picnic area is open. Portable toilets are available at the beach area parking lot, the group picnic pavilion, and the fisherman’s parking lot. If you have any questions please email them to sm.fs.mrnra@usda.gov or call the office at 276-783-5196

Active Alerts

Food Storage and Disposal Requirements - Bear Safety

Prohibitions in designated recreation sites

General Information

Beartree Hiking Trails

Mid-May - late-October

Gate open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Commercial shuttles must have special use permit.
The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass series and the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Seasonal Day Use Pass are accepted here and cover day use fees. The America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes provide a 50% discount to the base campsite fee (not hook ups) and day use fees.

No Day use fee for the 2025 season. $5 fee for Dump station.

Please, keep your pet on a leash when in a recreation area or campground. The law requires dog owners to keep their dog on a leash with a length no greater than 6 feet and under physical control when within a recreational area, such as a campground or day use area (36 CFR 2616(j)).

The campground is a short drive to the Virginia Creeper Trail. Many shuttle, guide, and rental services are available for this popular trail. Learn more on the Virginia Creeper Trail page.

Pat Jennings Visitor Center and Mount Rogers District Office View from outside.

Address: 3714 Highway 16 Marion, VA 24354
Phone: 276-783-5196
Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

Beartree Campground is located at 20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA, approximately 9 miles from the town of Damascus.

From 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.