Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

B.A.R.K. Ranger

Location of Bear Creek Lake State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Cumberland Multi-Use Trail Parking Area
Main Park Address: Bear Creek Lake State Park, 22 Bear Creek Lake Rd., Cumberland, VA 23040.

When

March 12, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Leave No Trace principles not only apply to you, but also your dog. On this guided hike we will learn how both you and your four-legged friends can practice good environmental stewardship while exploring the great outdoors. At the end of the hike, participating pups and their two-legged companions will have the chance to demonstrate the B.A.R.K. principles. Once sworn in as a Bear Creek Lake B.A.R.K. Ranger, you will receive a coupon for a 50% discount on a BCL B.A.R.K. Ranger collar tag.

We will meet at the Cumberland multi-use trail parking area. The trail will be dirt and hard packed gravel with some inclines. Pet's must be on leashes no greater than 6 feet in length and kept under control at all times. Waste must be bagged and disposed of properly (one of the B.A.R.K. Ranger principles).

Spaces are limited, please register online through Eventbrite. Email bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov with any questions or concerns. Registration is free.

Introduced by the National Parks, B.A.R.K. Ranger is an initiative for pets and their owners to establish and practice responsible recreation behaviors.

dog wearing a ranger hat

Documents

bear-creek-lake-avenza-map1.pdf

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 804-492-4410
Email Address: BearCreek@dcr.virginia.gov