Lake with small bridge

Bear Creek Vacation Rentals

Bear Creek

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Bear Creek
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Why Rent On Bear Creek

Bear Creek Reservoir, also known as Big Bear, was first impounded in 1969 mostly as a flood control reservoir and holds 670 acres of water at full pool. The lake was drained in 2005. Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Russellville in Franklin County, it is one of four Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) reservoirs operated by the Bear Creek Development Authority. The primary uses of this reservoir are flood control and recreation.

Bear Creek Reservoir is wild and scenic as no residential development mars the lakes shoreline. Camping and fishing provide the main recreational opportunities. Two public areas (Piney Point and Horseshoe Bend) provide boat ramps and campgrounds.

Bear Creek is one of four dams – the others are Upper Bear Creek, Little Bear Creek, and Cedar Creek – that provide flood control, recreational opportunities, and water supply in northwest Alabama.

The Bear Creek area is popular for all kinds of boating, including canoeing and kayaking. The Bear Creek Floatway, which flows into Bear Creek Reservoir, is a popular spot for teaching first-timers to negotiate rapids and work with the current.
Below the dam the Lower Bear Creek Canoe Trail provides a more leisurely float, running 34 miles down the creek to Pickwick Landing Dam on the Tennessee.
The scenic area is also frequented by fishermen, picnickers, birdwatchers, and sightseers.

Best time to go
Visit Bear Creek, Alabama, in late spring, when the wildflowers bloom and the days are drenched in golden sunlight. With fewer tourists, serene fishing spots beckon, and the gentle hum of water sports invites joyful immersion in nature’s embrace.
Water Quality
Bear Creek Reservoir in Alabama features water that is deep blue and crystal-clear, offering excellent visibility for activities like fishing and kayaking. The surrounding forests and limestone bluffs enhance the reservoir's pristine and unspoiled appearance.
Surface area (mi)
1.7
Max depth (ft)
83.99
Elevation (ft)
807.09
Shoreline length (mi)
105.01

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
  • Jet Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Bear Creek has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Bear Creek Lakes but only in designated areas. Swimming areas are provided, and these areas are specifically marked for safe swimming.

  • Bear Creek is a popular destination for outdoor activities because it offers a variety of recreational opportunities. At the Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, and hiking, with amenities like a swim beach and a handicap-accessible fishing pier. The Bear Creek Campground near Lake Greeson also provides activities such as boating, water-skiing, and hiking trails.

  • In Little Bear Creek Reservoir of the B.C.D.A. Lakes in Alabama, it is illegal to possess largemouth bass between 13 and 16 inches in total length. You are encouraged to harvest largemouth bass less than 13 inches to improve growth rates and overall size of the remaining bass. This rule helps in managing the bass population.

  • There are no dog-friendly beaches at Bear Creek Lake State Park, as dogs are not allowed on the beach area. However, the park does offer other pet-friendly areas such as trails and picnic sites. Dogs are permitted in these areas as long as they are leashed.

  • The nearest towns to Bear Creek, Alabama, for amenities and services are Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Florence. These towns are located about 32-36 miles north of Bear Creek and offer a range of services and amenities. Muscle Shoals and Florence are particularly notable for their larger populations and more extensive facilities.