Outdoor Recreation

OUTDOOR RECREATION

There is plenty of room for outdoor adventure in Bath County. More than half the county is national forest, state park, or Nature Conservancy land. You’ll find farms, fishing and fly fishing opportunities, world class golf, over 100 miles of trails, and more.   

There is plenty of room for outdoor adventure in Bath County. More than half the county is national forest, state park, or Nature Conservancy land. You’ll find farms, fishing and fly fishing opportunities, world class golf, over 100 miles of trails, and more.   

Farms

Bath County takes pride in being self-sufficient and preserving the rich agricultural heritage of the area. Many farms have been in operation for generations, inviting visitors to connect with the land and its bounty.

Oakley Farm: One of the original farms of Bath County, Oakley Farm is home to Troddenvale Cider and Fireside at Oakley Farm. The farm showcases sustainability through regenerative farming techniques and also hosts Foodlore Fridays.

Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm: The term “farm to table” is not just a buzzword in Bath. Fort Lewis Lodge sources most of its produce and animal products from their own farm, making for delicious breakfasts and dinners. 

Fishing & Fly Fishing

Here, fishing is more than a pastime. Two of the most pristine rivers in Virginia, the Jackson River and Cowpasture River, flow through Bath County. It is a popular destination for fishing and fly fishing, and there are many seasoned guides ready to take you on an adventure.  

Matthew Thomas Fly Fishing: Local to Bath County, Matthew Thomas provides guided fly fishing experiences, from the upper to lower Jackson River. Whether you are a beginner excited to hold a fly rod for the first time or an experienced angler seeking to expand your skills, he will lead you on a unique, memorable fly-fishing journey.

Fly Fishing at The Homestead: The Omni Homestead Resort offers exclusive, guided fly fishing tours in the Cascades Gorge and Jackson River. 

Wesley Hodges Fly Fishing: According to Wesley Hodges, “Virginia is the new west”. Wesley offers guided fly fishing expeditions in the region and frequently visits Bath for special fly fishing events.

Golf

The Cascades, one of the top 100 golf courses in the United States, is located in Bath County. World class golf experiences can be found at the Omni Homestead Resort, including the Cascades and Old Course. Learn more about golf in Bath County here

Hiking & Biking

Between the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Douthat State Park, and The Nature Conservancy, over 100 miles of trails make up Bath County. Popular trails include Flag Rock, Bear Loop, and Blue Suck Falls. Explore our trails here.

Horseback Riding

Let’s Ride Horses: Let’s Ride Horses offers authentic trail rides to take you through some of Virginia’s most beautiful countryside. Each ride is led by one of their guides who have over 50 years horseback riding experience. Whether you have an hour or all day, they have several options for horseback riding. 

Horseback Riding @ The Homestead: The Omni Homestead Equestrian Center offers horseback riding, carriage rides, and hand-led rides for children. 

Turtle Brook Farm: A unique farm stay experience, Turtle Brook Farm allows you to bring your own horses to Bath County. Horse facilities include two 12×24 covered shelters with secure paddocks, a working ring, pasturage and trail access to thousands of acres of U.S. Forest land over Cobbler Mountain into Hidden Valley.

Hidden Valley Recreation Area: Hidden Valley is one of the few recreational areas in Virginia that allows for horseback riding. Horse trailer parking is available for day use only. There are no overnight horse facilities available.