Music, Rivers, and Farm Roads

Summer starts here in Hampshire County.

Image courtesy of the South Branch Valley Bluegrass Festival

Hang up those porch ferns and dust off those flip flops—it’s June in Hampshire County. The mountains are brilliant green. The rivers are waiting for kayakers and anglers. The farm stands are about to burst with fresh flowers and produce. And not to be corny, but we’re pretty sure we hear bluegrass music in the air. 

This is the season where weekends fill up fast—in the best way. Forget your planner and your phone. Forget the hassle of air travel. We’re close to D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, so if you’re looking for a summer getaway that mixes mountain scenery, local flavor, riverside fun, and small-town charm, Hampshire County’s got some great things happening in the next few months.

One of June’s highlights is Cacapon Riverfest in Capon Bridge, June 19–20. It’s a two-day celebration of the beautiful Cacapon River—part music festival, part community gathering, and part love letter to West Virginia’s cleanest river! You’ll find live music, food, drinks, art vendors, environmental presentations, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow river rats. This is the kind of event where kids run around barefoot, people chillax in lawn chairs and make new friends, and everybody goes home happy and tired. Rivers tend to do that to people.

Later in the month, join us at the South Branch Valley Bluegrass Festival on Saturday, June 27, at Wapocoma Campground near Romney. This annual tradition brings a full day of music, food vendors, riverside fun, raffles, and one big ’ole fireworks show to cap off the night. What’s more “summer in West Virginia” than sitting out by the river, sharing a little live music with the lightning bugs? 

On Sunday, June 28, get your vocal cords ready because the Lucky E Rodeo Company is coming to the Hampshire County Fair Grounds in Augusta. Fortunately, you don’t have to ride the bulls, broncos, or race around barrels—and neither do we. We’ll just let the pros handle this one and show up to hoot, holler, and enjoy some outstanding entertainment.

And while you’re here, make sure to note the date—July 11–12—for the Hampshire County Farm Crawl, one of the best ways to experience the county’s agricultural roots firsthand. This is a self-guided adventure through local farms, flower fields, markets, and agritourism spots across the county. You’ll meet farmers, sample local foods—because it’s eating season!—browse handmade products, and see exactly where all this Appalachian goodness comes from. 

Some stops offer tastings. Some offer demonstrations. Some just offer peace and quiet and a good excuse to stay outside a little longer.

Of course, after all these rivers, festivals, music jams, and farm visits, you’re probably going to want somewhere comfortable to land. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. 

If your dream getaway includes waterfalls, swimming holes, mountain views, and a hot tub beneath the stars, the Mountain Waterfront Retreat checks every box. Set on 50 wooded acres with trails, fishing spots, ponds, and scenic overlooks, it feels less like a rental house and more like your own private wilderness preserve. Eat your heart out, Sir David Attenborough.

For something a little more classic and camp-inspired, Fox Den Cabin at Buffalo Gap Retreat offers cozy simplicity surrounded by outdoor adventure. Spend your day kayaking, hiking, or relaxing by the lake, then gather around the communal fire pit at night. It’s relaxed, unfussy, and built for people who’d rather spend time outside than scrolling through emails.

If lakefront mornings sound like a dream, Ferndale Lakehouse in Springfield is a great reason to stay an extra night. Paddleboards, kayaks, a fire pit, lake views, and a spacious deck make it easy to settle into vacation mode immediately. Even coffee tastes better overlooking the water. (It’s true. We don’t make the rules—we just follow them.)

If you really want mountain scenery, the Eagle Mountain Cabin near Paw Paw delivers the kinds of views that make people stop mid-sentence. Perched high above the Cacapon River Valley, this mountaintop retreat comes with huge windows, expansive decks, cozy gathering spaces, and sunsets that deserve their own soundtrack. 

Then there’s the Koolwink Motel, an absolute classic here in Hampshire County that’s famous for its retro vibes and laid-back atmosphere. Close to antique shops, historic sites, and scenic drives that lead to pleasant poking around. Forever a winner.

The ever-comfortable South Branch Inn has deep local roots. It’s newly remodeled and family-owned. Super comfortable, makes a great home base, and as welcoming as you’ll ever find. This is the ultimate place to relax and enjoy the mountains.

We love Capon Springs & Farms. History, relaxation, a little indulgence, but not so much that you’ll get lazy. It’s a great place to unwind and find your way to a hike, a stream, a good book, or a bit of a history-seeking quest. You just can’t go wrong, here.

Remember, June goes quickly, so now’s the time to take advantage of long days, lazy rivers, and ripening produce. Come vibe with us—Hampshire County is easy to reach. See you soon? Darn right we will. Your lawn chair is waiting.