Beartree Campground (Group sites)

Hello, fellow Virginians! Are you organizing a large family reunion, a scout troop outing, a church retreat, or just a big gathering of friends who love the great outdoors? If bringing your group together for an unforgettable camping experience is on your agenda, then the dedicated group sites at Beartree Campground in Washington County, Virginia, are precisely what you've been looking for. This specialized section of the popular Beartree Campground is designed to accommodate larger parties, offering ample space and a fantastic setting within the stunning Jefferson National Forest.

Beartree Campground, already cherished for its tranquil lake and beautiful surroundings, extends its inviting atmosphere to group campers, providing a perfect base for shared adventures. Imagine a setting where your entire group can camp together, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature, participating in lakeside activities, and creating lasting memories. The convenience of having dedicated space for your larger party means less stress about finding multiple individual sites and more time enjoying the company of your fellow campers.

While specific amenities for the group sites may vary slightly from individual sites, the core appeal of the broader Beartree Recreation Area—with its gorgeous lake, potential for fishing, and access to trails—remains a major draw. These group sites offer an ideal solution for those planning larger gatherings, allowing everyone to experience the beauty and recreational opportunities that Southwest Virginia has to offer in a communal and organized manner. Prepare to foster connections and forge new memories at Beartree Campground's welcoming group sites.

The group sites at Beartree Campground are located within the broader Beartree Recreation Area, with the address listed as Washington County, VA 24236, USA. This places them in the beautiful and accessible region of Southwest Virginia, specifically within the Jefferson National Forest, near the charming town of Damascus. The full address for the main recreation area, which these group sites are part of, is 20993 Beartree Gap Rd, Damascus, VA 24236.

For Virginians traveling to the group sites, accessibility is generally straightforward, utilizing major interstate highways and well-maintained state routes. If coming from central or northern Virginia (e.g., Roanoke, Charlottesville), you would typically take I-81 South. Common exits such as Marion (Exit 19) or Abingdon (Exit 19) would lead you onto state routes like US-58 or VA-16. These routes will guide you towards Damascus, from which you would then follow local roads, including Beartree Gap Road, which leads directly into the recreation area and to the campground. The roads, while navigating mountainous terrain, are generally suitable for larger vehicles, including those with group trailers or multiple cars.

The location is a significant asset for group outings due to its immediate proximity to Beartree Lake and its surrounding amenities. Groups can easily access the "gorgeous" lake for fishing, enjoy a scenic "loop trail around the lake," and utilize potential beach areas for group activities. The overall Beartree Recreation Area is known for its "family friendly area" and diverse trails, which are easily accessible from the group camping section.

Despite its immersive forest setting, the campground is not entirely isolated. The nearby town of Damascus, often referred to as "Trail Town, USA," provides convenient access to additional amenities. Groups can easily visit local shops, restaurants, and utilize services like bike rentals for the famous Virginia Creeper Trail, just a short drive away. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to town resources makes Beartree Campground's group sites an exceptionally well-located and accessible choice for any Virginian group planning an outdoor adventure.

The group sites at Beartree Campground are designed to accommodate larger parties, offering fundamental services tailored for communal camping within a natural forest setting. While specific details on each individual group site's setup (e.g., number of picnic tables, fire rings) would typically be found on the reservation platform, based on the general Beartree Recreation Area's offerings, we can infer the following services:

• Spacious Group Camping Areas: The primary service is providing large, dedicated areas suitable for multiple tents and/or RVs within a single reservable unit, designed to keep a group together.

• Basic Restroom Facilities: Access to restrooms, likely flush toilets and potentially showers, is available within the broader campground area that the group sites are part of. (Note: The main campground features "at least 10 bathrooms" and showers. Any temporary closures or use of "port-a-johns" due to maintenance or damage would apply to group sites as well.)

• Potable Water Access: Access to fresh, potable water is generally available within the campground, vital for large groups.

• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Group sites typically include multiple picnic tables and designated fire rings to accommodate the larger number of campers for cooking and gathering.

• RV Waste Water Dump: Given the main campground features an "rv waste water dump," it's highly probable this crucial service is accessible to group site users as well, catering to RVs in the group.

• Playground Access: Groups with children will benefit from access to the "playgrounds for the kids" located within the broader Beartree Recreation Area.

• Lake Access & Fishing: Direct access to Beartree Lake for general enjoyment and fishing (the lake is "stocked with trout") is a major amenity for all campers, including those in group sites.

• Trail Access: Group members will have immediate access to the "loop trail around the lake" and other hiking and biking trails within the recreation area.

It is important for groups to confirm specific amenities directly with the U.S. Forest Service or via the reservation website, especially concerning any temporary impacts from maintenance or past hurricane damage, as these can affect the availability or condition of facilities like showers and main bathrooms.

• Ideal for Large Groups: The paramount feature is the dedicated group camping area, designed to comfortably accommodate large parties for family reunions, scout troops, church groups, or large friend gatherings, keeping everyone together.

• Beautiful Beartree Lake: The "gorgeous" Beartree Lake serves as a central highlight, offering "spectacular views" and a variety of water-based activities. It's a key attraction for all visitors, providing a scenic backdrop for group photos and shared moments.

• Stocked Trout Fishing: The lake is "stocked with trout," making it an excellent feature for fishing enthusiasts within the group, offering a relaxing and rewarding activity.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of "playgrounds for the kids" ensures that younger members of the group have dedicated spaces for play, making it a great destination for families with children.

• Extensive Trail Access: Direct access to a "loop trail around the lake" and other "great hiking trails" and "biking trails" provides diverse recreational opportunities for group members of all fitness levels. Portions of the lake trail are even "stroller friendly," enhancing accessibility.

• Secluded & Tranquil Environment: While designed for groups, the overall Beartree area is known for its "quietness is extremely relaxing" and its "very secluded" individual campsites. This suggests the group sites also offer a peaceful setting, fostering a sense of togetherness amidst nature.

• Unique Beach Access: The area offers a "BEACH to chill on," providing a unique spot for group relaxation and fun by the lakeside. (Note: Check current status for maintenance/damage.)

• Proximity to Damascus & Trail Town USA: Its location near Damascus allows groups to easily venture into town for additional amenities, bike rentals, or to explore the famous Virginia Creeper Trail, adding another layer to their adventure.

• Managed by Forest Service: Being a National Forest recreation area, it benefits from the oversight of the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring certain standards of maintenance and resource management.

As a component of the Beartree Recreation Area and managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Jefferson National Forest, the group sites at Beartree Campground adhere to federal fee structures rather than offering typical commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The primary "offer" is the provision of a dedicated, large-capacity site for groups at a set rate.

However, it's important for Virginians to understand how federal pricing and potential discounts might apply:

• Fixed Group Site Fee: Group campsites are typically reserved at a flat rate per night, regardless of the exact number of people within the group's capacity limit. This often presents a cost-effective solution for larger gatherings compared to booking multiple individual sites.

• Interagency Pass Discounts: While the primary group site fee usually isn't discounted, individual users within a group who possess certain Interagency Passes (e.g., America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for seniors, military, or those with permanent disabilities) may potentially receive discounts on other specific fees within the recreation area, such as day-use fees if applicable. It's always advisable to inquire about these possibilities.

• Inherent Value for Group Travel: The true "promotion" for Beartree Campground's group sites is the unparalleled convenience and experience they offer for large parties. Securing a dedicated space that can accommodate multiple tents and RVs, while providing access to the lake, trails, and playgrounds, is a significant value proposition for group organizers.

• Seasonal Availability & Booking Window: Like most federal campgrounds, Beartree's group sites operate seasonally. Booking well in advance through Recreation.gov is crucial, especially for popular dates, as these sites are in high demand.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific booking rules for Beartree Campground's group sites, Virginians should always refer to the official Recreation.gov website. This is the designated booking platform for federal campgrounds and will provide the most current information. Additionally, contacting the local Forest Service office (using the provided phone numbers) can offer clarity on fees and any operational alerts that might impact a group's visit.

For inquiries, reservations, and more detailed information about Beartree Campground (specifically for Group sites), as it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Jefferson National Forest, please use the following contact details:

Address: Washington County, VA 24236, USA (The broader Beartree Recreation Area is located at 20993 Beartree Gap Rd, Damascus, VA 24236, USA.)

Phone: (800) 628-7202 (This is the National Recreation Reservation Service phone number for booking federal campgrounds.)

Mobile Phone: +1 800-628-7202 (This is the same number, often used for general inquiries and reservations.)

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official government website: www.recreation.gov. Search for "Beartree Campground" and specifically look for "Group" sites or areas to check availability and make a booking. This is the primary and most efficient way to reserve these specialized group sites. For specific questions about the campground itself, current conditions, or large group policies that are not covered on the website, you may also try contacting the local Mount Rogers National Recreation Area Office at (276) 388-3642 during business hours.

For us Virginians planning a significant outdoor gathering, the group sites at Beartree Campground are an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice. This dedicated area provides a stress-free and enriching environment for larger parties, making it a perfect solution for many local needs.

Firstly, the very existence of dedicated group sites is a huge advantage. Instead of trying to book multiple individual campsites and hoping they are adjacent, Virginians can reserve a single, spacious area designed to keep their entire party together. This fosters camaraderie, simplifies logistics for family reunions, scout troops, or large friend gatherings, and allows for shared activities and memories in a communal setting. It's about bringing people together in the beauty of our own state.

Secondly, the location within the beautiful Beartree Recreation Area adds immense value. Access to the "gorgeous" Beartree Lake, with its "spectacular views" and "stocked trout" fishing, means there are immediate, natural activities for everyone in the group to enjoy. The "loop trail around the lake," noted for being "stroller friendly" in parts, ensures that even the youngest members and those with limited mobility can participate in the outdoor experience. The general "family friendly area" and the "kids playground" further enhance its appeal for multi-generational groups.

Despite any temporary maintenance or hurricane damage impacts, the core recreational opportunities remain strong, and the Forest Service works to restore facilities. This ongoing dedication ensures the long-term viability of Beartree as a prime outdoor destination. Furthermore, being close to Damascus, "Trail Town, USA," offers the flexibility for groups to venture out for local amenities or explore the famous Virginia Creeper Trail, adding another layer to their adventure without straying too far.

In conclusion, Beartree Campground's group sites offer Virginians a practical, scenic, and enriching solution for large-scale outdoor gatherings. It's a place where you can comfortably host your next big event, surrounded by the tranquility and natural beauty of the Jefferson National Forest, creating lasting memories right here in our incredible Commonwealth.