Shared by Hannah Grady, Marketing Intern, as Guest Blogger.

I had the chance to take my niece to Bear Creek Lake State Park for the day this summer. She is only two years old and had the time of her life and we are already planning our next trip.

She is anxious to get to the water at Bear Creek Lake State Park

Her favorite part of the day was playing in the lake. She can’t swim yet, but she thinks she can. We stuck by her side, but were at ease that a lifeguard was on duty the whole time. They had a little kiddie area that made my niece extra happy. She was able to slide down the turtles back, spin around on the floating lily pads, splash around, and even more. They even had a playground for the children on the beach. The adults were happy too just sitting in their beach chairs or floating around in the lake. Everyone there really seemed to be enjoying themselves with all the opportunities to have fun and make memories.

The kiddie area of the lake has a floating turtle and lily pad that are a hit with toddlers

Today, children are not getting outside as much as they used to. I try to get outside every chance I get, but I even still feel like I do not get outside enough. We live in a world with so many distractions that we sometimes miss out on some great opportunities. Just hearing all the children giggling, parents getting a chance to enjoy conversations with one another, and the sun shining on us was a magical feeling. It was a wonderful opportunity to get out in the outdoors and embrace nature with my little niece.

There is plenty of beach for kids to build sand castles

Bear Creek Lake State Park is about 4.5 miles northwest of the town of Cumberland, Virginia. For driving directions, click here.