Bark Camp Lake Loop

Overview. This is a fantastic lake loop with a ton of flora and fauna to see. Most notably, beavers! I spotted a pair of beavers on the hike and countless trees that fell victim to them. AND, I encountered a black bear! Fortunately, there was a big thicket of rhododendron between us, and I had my trusty bear spray at the ready just in case (I always carry this when hiking alone in bear country). Oh, and the lake is gorgeous - so there’s that!

Route Type | Loop
Total Distance | 3.6 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy to Moderate
Bark Camp Lake Loop Trail Map | US Forest Service

Trailhead. Bark Camp Recreation Area is very well developed with his and hers pit toilets, picnic tables, grills, ample parking, boat launch, and on-lake decking. Be sure to have some dollar bills on hand to pay the day use fee at the pay station near the bathrooms. Put some singles in there, fill out the deets on the envelope, and stuff it in the pay box. There are campsites available seasonally here as well. [map]

Trail navigation. The trail is easily navigated and well defined. I hiked it clockwise from the picnic area moving across the dam to the opposite side before winding back around. Note that the only trail that intersects is the Chief Benges Scout Trail. Be sure to stay close to the lake to avoid this trail that can take you a long way in either direction.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Stay alert on the trail, and if you see one, give it a wide berth or wait for it to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. There are plenty of black bears in the area, so it pays to take appropriate precautions including bear-safe food storage, carrying bear spray (especially when hiking alone), and knowing what to do when you encounter a bear. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]