Beginning Saturday, May 24, Bear Creek Lake State Park will have a big variety of activities and programs for visitors to enjoy.

Saturday will feature Beginner Archery, a Discovery Hike and a Welcome Campfire. A free special event, Life and Times of 1864, will be held from noon until 4 p.m. at Bear Creek Hall. Presented by local historical researcher, and American Civil War and Victorian era re-enactor Barbara Cagle, this program will provide insight into the daily lives of children and women, their arts, games, customs, food and living conditions.

What did they substitute for the foods and medicines they could no longer acquire? Where are some nearby historical sites, or the remnants of homes now returned to the forest? Visit the displays and conversation for as long or quickly as you like.

Sunday will feature a craft program and a canoe tour of the lake, while Monday will offer a program on how to use GPS units to go geo-caching and find hidden boxes in the nearby woods. Both Saturday and Sunday will have activities down at the beach for all to enjoy.

Many of the activities are free. Some may have a small materials fee or require advance registration. For more information contact the park office at 804-492-4410, or bearcreek@dcr.virginia.gov. The award –winning Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.