Beyond The Homestead, a world of natural wonder, rich heritage and surprising culture await. Bath County is at once a sportsman's paradise and a refuge for artful discovery.
Allegheny Mountains
Native Americans named these mountains “Allegheny” meaning “endless.” They extend from Pennsylvania through Virginia and West Virginia, and are a part of the very fabric of Bath County. A sanctuary of natural wonder, more than 50 percent of Bath County consists of the George Washington National Forest.
Cascades Gorge
Few mountain streams are as scenic and productive as our four-mile-long trout stream that flows between the Cascades and Lower Cascades Golf Courses. Accented by a series of beautiful waterfalls, this clear running stream with its wealth of mountain wildflowers and greenery qualifies as a magnificent challenge to the novice and experienced fly fisherman.
Flag Rock
High atop Warm Springs Mountain lays a site that is every bit as historically significant as it is breathtaking. Before The Homestead was ever built, stagecoaches would carry tourists to Flag Rock to take in the view. During the civil war, Flag Rock was high point for Confederate Troops to scout the valley for Union troops and a relay station for light signals. Today a gazebo adorns this cherished spot in Warm Springs Mountain Preserve for everyone to enjoy.
Garth Newel Music Center
There is no better place to hear a concert than the Garth Newel Music Center. The combination of world-class artistry, gourmet food, friendly people, and breathtaking scenery make Garth Newel the perfect place to relax and enjoy excellent music.
With over 50 concerts each year, Garth Newell is among the most active chamber music organizations in the United States. Performing the music as it was intended – in a chamber for small, intimate audiences – makes this venue truly unique. The setting inspires the exchange and spontaneity of the musicians as well as the depth and range of the music. Please make yourselves at home and enjoy one of the premier chamber music venues in the United States.
We hope you’ll join us often for many great experiences.
George Washington National Forest
Over half of the 345,000 acres of Bath County is made up of George Washington National Forest. The Nature Conservancy’s Warm Springs Mountain Preserve, created out of the 9,250 acres from Homestead Preserve, shares a 13-mile border with the forest. The George Washington National Forest is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ingalls Airfield
Convenient Ingalls Airfield makes travel to Homestead Preserve fast and convenient. The airfield can accommodate a variety of air travel.
Jackson River
Just minutes from Homestead Preserve, the Jackson River flows down from The Alleghenies between Back Creek Mountain and Jack Mountain before entering Bath County. Its cool, green waters are eventually restrained by the Gathright Dam, which creates Lake Moomaw. Anglers will tell you the Jackson River offers some of the best trout fishing anywhere, both above and below Lake Moomaw. The Jackson River later joins the Cowpasture River to create The James River.
The Jefferson Pools
Thomas Jefferson "took the waters" at both Warm Springs and The Homestead, describing that they were "of the first merit." The pools were named in his honor. It’s purported that Jefferson himself designed the octagonal gentleman's pool house, though it was constructed in 1761 when Jefferson was just 18 years old. In segregated pool houses, ladies and gentlemen can take the waters in their swimsuits or in "God’s suit."
The Gallery at Seven Oaks
Rt 220
Warm Springs
540-839-3054
Artisan creations for the beauty of your home. Sculptural furniture -gangchen tibetan carpets-pottery- wood turnings- rustic elegance and antiques.
Hours: Fridays & Saturdays 11:00am - 5:00pm - Sundays 1:00pm - 5:00pm and by appointment
The Nature Conservancy’s Warm Springs Mountain Preserve
Protects 13 miles of fragile mountain ridgeline, including a high elevation Appalachian forest of rare montane pine barren, some of which you can explore along the Ingalls Overlook Trail.
Lake Moomaw
During the warm summer months, Lake Moomaw offers a refreshing place with 2,500-acres to explore. A marina and boat rental facilities to a lazy paddle by canoe across the lake at Douthat State Park. The Dominion Back Creek Recreation Area provides access to two stocked lakes in a stunning natural setting beneath Back Creek Mountain.
Bath County outdoor recreation and camping resources:
Warm Springs Ranger District George Washington National Forest and Lake Moomaw.
Warm Springs Mountain Preserve
Dominion Back Creek Recreation Area
Cliff View Golf Club and Inn 18 hole golf course with a nine room Bed and Breakfast. They also offer 2 miles of private fly fishing on the Jackson River.
Warm Springs Gallery
Courthouse Hill Road
Warm Springs
540-839-2985
