Abstract In order to make efficient and high-value utilization of bamboo materials, bamboo strand-based structural composite lumber (BSCL) with high bamboo utilization, high automation level and excellent performance was prepared. The influence of technological parameters, including strand thickness, strand length and resin content, on the performance of BSCLs was analyzed under the mutual function of board density. The results showed that board density and resin content have a significant effect on the water resistance properties of BSCL. With increasing resin contents and densities, most water resistance properties increased. It was also revealed that the density has a significant influence on mechanical properties. The modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, compressive strength and shear strength of BSCL with density of 0.73–1.32 g/cm3 ranged from 64.63 MPa to 328.18 MPa, 13354 MPa to 29340 MPa, 24.27 MPa to 158.26 MPa, 5.48 MPa to 36.22 MPa, respectively. In addition, strand length had notable influence on modulus of rupture and shear strength of board with a density of 0.9 g/cm3. But mechanical properties did not significantly vary with strand thickness and resin content. The mechanical properties of BSCL could be comparable or surpass that of wood or bamboo products. This study provided necessary basic research for engineering design and application of BSCL.