A lot of people love the outdoors; they come to Virginia State Parks for recreation and rejuvenation.
But many park visitors come to enjoy the nature programs and activities presented by state park interpreters and staff. Often, however, visitors also get the opportunity to meet folks who help present programs solely because they too love the outdoors. These volunteers want to share the life they love with others, and can’t be thanked enough for their contributions to state parks’ success.
As the saying goes: “Volunteers aren’t paid; not because they’re worthless but because they’re priceless.” Bear Creek lake State Park has been blessed this summer with great folks who came along to help out at just the right time.
Volunteers help the park with various tasks like weeding and watering the flower
gardens found in the park
During this summer, members of the Friends of Bear Creek Lake and the Virginia Master Naturalists Central Piedmont chapter assisted at our Pre-K Day, tending to several stations of environmental experiences for over one hundred four and five year olds. Camp Host Stephanie Faust did double duty by assisting with several interpretive programs and activities. Volunteer Otto Dreissigacker wanted to attend our Junior Ranger program with his grandson. Otto didn’t meet our eight to fifteen years old age limits, so he volunteered to assist Park staff for the entire three days of activities. Melissa Meinhard puts in many hours on a daily basis as our AmeriCorps Interpreter, a volunteer position.
AmeriCorps volunteer Melissa Meinhard assisted the park with their summer programs
Anyone who wants to share their nature knowledge is encouraged to contact the Program Manager Tom Kneipp by email. Just as welcome are those who simply love the outdoors and would like to assist with programs. As a program volunteer, you can learn more about the environment of the region, and get to meet great folks just like yourself.
Volunteers come from all age groups like these young volunteers planting trees at the park
To learn more on volunteering at Virginia State Parks, click here. For volunteer opportunities at Bear Creek Lake, click here.
The park is about 4.5 miles northwest of the town of Cumberland. From U.S. Route 60, go west on Route 622 and south on Route 629 to the park entrance.
Drive Time: Northern Va., three hours; Richmond, one hour; Roanoke, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, three hours.
