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More Than a BnB, Experience West Virginia!
Working Together To Create Educational Experiences
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LRCBNB
Laurel Fork Farm
Laurel River Club BnB was born from our desire to honor history, ignite a love for hospitality, and offer a serene haven for travelers. Nestled amidst the picturesque countryside alongside the Dry Fork River, our B&B is enveloped by an educational farm and breathtaking vistas, creating an idyllic retreat for all who seek it.
Laurel Fork Farm
Laurel Fork Farm
Embraced by a 250-acre educational farm, Laurel River Club BnB offers guests the opportunity to savor farm-to-table meals sourced directly from this land. Immerse yourself in the authentic rhythm of farm life and experience firsthand the daily workings of our dedicated farmers and their bustling homestead during your stay.
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WVSTS
The West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to collaborating with businesses and organizations to offer experiential education that fosters a deep connection with nature through hands-on learning. Serving as the primary organizer of events and educational experiences on the farm, our
The West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to collaborating with businesses and organizations to offer experiential education that fosters a deep connection with nature through hands-on learning. Serving as the primary organizer of events and educational experiences on the farm, our school strives to empower individuals to reconnect with the natural world using creation.
The Laurel Fork Falconer
Master Class Falconer Collin Waybright has dedicated himself to the art of working with birds of prey since the age of 14. His expertise and finesse have left a lasting impression on countless individuals, who frequently remark, "He makes training birds look effortless!"
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
Tiffany is deeply passionate about farm life, cultivating food, foraging, and preserving, among other pursuits. She tends to her Mini Nubian dairy goats and showcases her laser art and crafted goods, available both at the BnB and on her Etsy page. Keep up with her adventures through her engaging blog and social media channels!
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Mama Bear Protection
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
The term "Mama Bear" captures the fierce, protective nature that many mothers display when they believe their children are in danger or threatened. At Mama Bear Protection we help you harness that protective nature and turn it into lifesaving skills to not only improve the safety of your family but also your community.
It's Kendra Paige
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
It's Kendra Paige
Kendra's passion lies in crafting handmade items, fiber art, animal husbandry, and sustainable living practices. Discover her delightful crocheted plushies, available in her Etsy shop, at the BnB gift shop, and various local gift outlets. She nurtures Finn sheep and Angora rabbits, utilizing their wool in crafting many of her exquisite fiber creations.
Chicken Tender
Redhead ~n~ Mudboots
It's Kendra Paige
Josie is our most requested guide here on the farm! At the age of 11, she certainly has already made a name for herself by training cats, rabbits and of course chickens.
Come and meet the Chicken Tender and learn about her life as a free spirit here on the farm!
Motivational Speaker
Marsha Waybright
Marsha is an incredibly accomplished and driven individual! As an award-winning entrepreneur and the creator and founder of multiple businesses and a non-profit organization, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership and innovation in her field. Her focus on agri-tourism in West Virginia showcases her commitment to both sustainable business practices and community development.
Marsha's down-to-earth and genuine nature demonstrates how she values authenticity and meaningful connections, which likely contributes to her success in inspiring and refreshing her audience. Whether through her businesses, non-profit work, or speaking engagements, she brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and relatability to everything she does. If you're looking for someone to invigorate and motivate your audience, Marsha is an excellent choice!
To book Marsha for your next event or to get more information call 304-402-7095
For more information call 304-402-7095
Birds of Prey
Join West Virginia Master Falconer, Collin Waybright, as he offers a fascinating look into the world of raptors, blending education and entertainment to deepen your appreciation for these majestic birds. You'll learn about their crucial roles in the ecosystem and have the chance to engage directly by asking questions and observing these incredible creatures up close. It's an experience designed to inspire a new appreciation for the birds of prey and encourage you to explore the skies with fresh eyes.
1 hour
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
RESERVE BY CALLING
304-402-7095
Trail of Discovery
Join us for an engaging educational nature hike that will awaken your senses and deepen your appreciation for the great outdoors! Guided by experienced naturalists, this immersive experience will explore local ecosystems, identify native plants and wildlife, and uncover the secrets of nature's balance. Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn while enjoying the beauty of nature! Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of discovery.
2 hours
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
RESERVE BY CALLING
304-402-7095
Mysteries of the Night Hike
(Seasonal Sounds) As the sun sets, a whole new world awakens, filled with nocturnal creatures that thrive in the darkness. On a moonlight hike, you'll experience the captivating sounds of the night—chirping crickets, hooting owls, and howling coyotes—all adding their own charm and mystery to your evening in the countryside. Listen to the gentle murmur of water flowing down the riverbed, the rustling of leaves in the breeze, and the occasional snort of deer, among other night sounds. Join a guide to fully immerse yourself in these nocturnal symphonies, or simply enjoy the serene quiet if you're accustomed to city life.
But that’s not all—our location in a no light pollution area allows the stars to shine with a brilliance you can only experience in the countryside. You'll also witness an extraordinary display of lightning bugs, their enchanting glow adding an extra layer of magic to your moonlight hike.
2 hours
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
RESERVE BY CALLING
304-402-7095
Bright Beetle Project
Fireflies, aka Lightning Bugs are neither flies nor bugs, they are actually beetles. We are working with the WVDNR to assist with a research project we are working on. We want to determine how many species of Fireflies call this farm home and why. We would like to know what the agricultural benefits of having a thriving Firefly population on a farm are and how other farmers may also benefit from having a firefly population. Learn all about this fascinating "bright beetle" and enjoy the their enchanting light show starting in April, depending on temperature, and ending in late July early August!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
RESERVE BY CALLING
304-402-7095
Get to know the Dry Fork River
Step right out our back door, and you'll discover the tranquil beauty of the Dry Fork River, inviting you to unwind and refresh in its crisp mountain waters. But beyond its soothing embrace, our river offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse ecosystem it sustains.
Stretching 39.1 miles through the rugged terrain of the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia, the Dry Fork River is a vital tributary of the Black Fork of the Cheat River. As part of the larger watershed that feeds into the Mississippi River via the Black Fork, Cheat, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers, it plays a crucial role in the region's ecological balance.
Photography Walks
Whether you're a seasoned professional or an amateur enthusiast, this experience guarantees unique photographic opportunities that elevate your portfolio to new heights.
From breathtaking landscapes to elusive wildlife and hidden gems, this walk promises to ignite your creativity and leave you with images that tell stories of unparalleled beauty. Don't miss this chance to expand your photography skills and capture moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
RESERVE BY CALLING
304-402-7095
Animal Husbandry
Fishing For All Experience Levels
West Virginia Hunting
Animal husbandry stands as the cornerstone of agriculture, focusing on the welfare and management of animals raised for various purposes such as meat, fiber, milk, and other valuable products. This multifaceted discipline encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, from the day-to-day care and well-being of livestock to the intricate tasks of production, nutrition, breeding, and raising.
West Virginia Hunting
Fishing For All Experience Levels
West Virginia Hunting
Step into the world of a West Virginia Master Tracker and Hunter for an experience unlike any other. This isn't your typical hunting excursion where the focus is solely on bagging a trophy buck. Instead, it's an opportunity to delve deep into the ancient art of tracking, hunting, and harvesting your own food.
But this experience goes beyond just the thrill of the hunt. It's a profound lesson in self-sufficiency and respect for the natural world. You'll gain a newfound appreciation for the food on your table as you learn to source it directly from the land.
Fishing For All Experience Levels
Fishing For All Experience Levels
Fishing For All Experience Levels
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a complete novice, Kendall's expertise and enthusiasm will ensure you have a memorable fishing experience. With his guidance, you'll learn the basics of fishing techniques, from casting your line to reeling in your catch.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of West Virginia's pristine waters as you cast your line amidst stunning natural scenery.
Appalachian Herbalism
Appalachian Herbalism
Fishing For All Experience Levels
Embark on a journey to uncover the rich traditions of West Virginia and embrace the art of country living. In our herbal experience, you'll delve into the heart of Appalachian culture, learning time-honored customs and practical skills that have been passed down through generations.
Subjects may include: salves, soap, tinctures, herbal remedies and more!
Forest Farming
Appalachian Herbalism
Massage Therapy
Forest farming entails the deliberate cultivation of specialty crops—whether edible, medicinal, or decorative—beneath native or planted woodlands managed for both wood and understory crop production. Not to be confused with wildcrafting, which involves gathering naturally occurring plants from native forests, forest farming offers lucrative prospects for forest and woodland owners, as well as nut growers, sugar maple growers, and herb growers alike
Massage Therapy
Appalachian Herbalism
Massage Therapy
A wonderful addition to the farm experience! Contact Selena, 410-299-4085 to schedule your personal massage during your stay, indoor or outdoor sessions available.
Singles 50 min Swedish/deep tissue $100 80 min Swedish/deep tissue $145
Couples 50 min Swedish/deep tissue $220 80 min Swedish/deep tissue $310
An Experience For Everyone!
Mountain Medicine Trail
The Mountain Medicine Trail (MMT) is a collection of destinations throughout Pocahontas, Randolph, and Tucker Counties in West Virginia that celebrate the woodland plants native to our West Virginia forests (also known as Appalachian forest botanicals). Destinations on the MMT offer visitors an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the cultural relevance and the economic and historical significance of Appalachian forest botanicals, and rich ecology of our forest ecosystems.
Planning your Garden
At Laurel Fork Farm, we take pride in cultivating the majority of the food served at our BnB, offering guests a true Farm-to-Table experience. Join us as we unveil the art and science of planting, sharing our expertise on everything from selecting the right crops to understanding optimal planting times.
Harvesting From Your Garden
Preserving Food From Your Garden
Our seasonal gardening workshops provide a hands-on opportunity to learn the secrets behind our bountiful harvests. Discover the nuances of planting schedules, including when to sow seeds and transplant seedlings for maximum yield.
But our commitment to sustainability doesn't end with planting. We'll guide you through the intricate process of harvesting, teaching you how to discern the perfect moment to gather each crop without compromising future yields.
Preserving Food From Your Garden
Preserving Food From Your Garden
Once the harvest is in, the preservation begins. From canning and freezing to dehydrating and freeze-drying, we'll explore the best methods for preserving each type of food to suit your needs and preferences. Our passion for preserving food extends beyond our kitchen—we're eager to share our expertise and empower you to preserve the flavors of each season long after the harvest is over.
What is Kombucha?
Dive into the ancient tradition of kombucha brewing with our immersive workshop, where you'll unlock the secrets of crafting this renowned fermented tea beverage. For millennia, kombucha has been cherished for its myriad health benefits and rich cultural heritage, making it a staple in households around the world
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Making Jelly
Learn with us the art of jelly-making using the bountiful produce harvested right here on our farm! Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn the secrets of transforming farm-fresh fruits into delectable jellies.
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
Join us as we unlock the secrets of crafting the perfect loaf, from kneading the dough to watching it rise to golden perfection in the oven. Our hands-on workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn the time-honored art of bread-making and gain the skills to create mouthwatering loaves in your own kitchen.
West Virginia's Longest Trail
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
The Allegheny Trail is a 311-mile north-south trail from the Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania-West Virginia border until it meets the Appalachian Trail on Peters Mountain at the Virginia-West Virginia border
Nestled within section 2 of the trail spanning from Blackwater Falls State Park to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast offers a perfect basecamp for hikers exploring this scenic 91.8-mile stretch.
We provide comprehensive support for hikers, including assistance in planning your journey through section 2. Additionally, we offer three distinct section hikes featuring shuttle services for a hassle-free experience. You can choose to embark directly from our BnB or opt for a shuttle out and hike back arrangement.
For further details and personalized assistance in planning your adventure, feel free to reach out to us. Your journey along section 2 of the trail awaits—let us help you make it an unforgettable experience
How To Make Kombucha
How To Make Homemade Bread, Rolls, or Biscuits
How To Make Kombucha
Kombucha is an ancient fermented tea that may have many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol levels, and supporting cardiovascular health.
In this experience we will show you what the process of making Kombucha looks like and will send you home with your own SCOBY to start making your own!
West Virginia hunter Safety Education
Two Ways To Take The Course
We offer both the Hands-On and Written Test, which allows you take part of the class online and part of the class in person and then take the test, Traditional Hunter Education is a two day in person only class then take the test..
Topics include gun safety, wildlife management, survival/first aid, game identification, and how to hunt safely and ethically. Below is a link to all classes available in West Virginia. Students who have not reached their 10th birthday by the written test date of the class will not receive a permanent hunter education certification. Below is a link to all classes available in West Virginia.
Below are two options for the Hands-On and Written Test to take the online part of the course, through Hunter-ED, there is a fee and through the NRA, free of charge. Choose which program you want to use and bring your certificate of completion to class to complete your Course.
If you are interested in one of the classes we host, watch for the one happening at Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast. Sponsored by Mama Bear Protection and The West Virginia School Of Traditional Skills.
Hands-On and Written Test Through Hunter-ED (Part online part in person)
Hands-On and Written Test: You must PAY and complete the online course first then register for the hands-on and written test, which is about 4 hours. Print your certificate of completion from the online course then register to take the test. Bring your certificate with you when you come to take the test.
Hands-On and Written Test Through the NRA (Part online part in person)
Hands-On and Written Test: This test is FREE and complete the online course first then register for the hands-on and written test, which is about 4 hours. Print your certificate of completion from the online course then register to take the test. Bring your certificate with you when you come to take the test.
Traditional Hunter Education (Full in person class)
Traditional Hunter Education: Sign up for the class online for FREE You will enjoy listening to volunteer instructors and natural resources police officers pass on their expertise and hunting experiences, talking with your fellow hunters during class breaks, and getting familiar with the total hunting experience. Extra help is available for those who may need it. This class is a total 10 hours. Below is a link to all classes available in West Virginia. If you are interested in one of ours watch for the one happening at Laurel River Club Ben & Breakfast.
CE Experiences
Birds of Prey and How to Handle Them
Therapy, Service, & Emotional Support. What Do They Mean?
Therapy, Service, & Emotional Support. What Do They Mean?
- 3 CE Hours Approved by the West Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine
The Purpose:
At our retreat-style CE experiences, we not only strive to provide exceptional learning opportunities for veterinary professionals but also to make a positive impact on the lives of birds of prey. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that these majestic creatures receive the treatment they need to thrive in their natural habitat.
Through our immersive experiences, participants not only gain valuable insights into the needs of birds of prey but also acquire safe handling skills and knowledge that is not readily available elsewhere. By bringing awareness to the unique challenges faced by these birds, we aim to inspire compassion and action among our participants.
The positive impact of our programs extends beyond the classroom. Through education and cooperation, we empower veterinary professionals to make a difference in the lives of birds of prey. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, more birds receive the care they need, ultimately leading to healthier populations and thriving ecosystems.
Join us in our mission to make a difference for birds of prey. Together, we can create a brighter future for these magnificent creatures and the environments they call home.
What will be Presented:
- Discover the differences in birds.
- · Federal and state laws that pertain to veterinarians as well as the general public and what your responsibilities are.
- · Experience what the art of falconry is.
- · See how handling a falconry bird and a wild bird can be very different.
- · How to properly give advice to people who call to report an injured bird.
- · Federal Laws about euthanizing a migratory bird or bird of prey.
- · The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
- · Beaks and talons and how to cope.
- · The ecology of raptors
- · Lead poisoning in birds
- · What are raptor centers and how they take care of birds.
Therapy, Service, & Emotional Support. What Do They Mean?
Therapy, Service, & Emotional Support. What Do They Mean?
Therapy, Service, & Emotional Support. What Do They Mean?
- 3 CE Hours Approved by the West Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine
Purpose:
Explore the vital distinctions between therapy, service, and emotional support animals with our comprehensive educational program. Delve into how state and federal laws safeguard individuals who rely on these animals for crucial support and assistance. Our initiative not only clarifies these differences but also highlights the legal protections in place to ensure the rights of those in need.
What Will Be Presented:
- · What are the differences in therapy, service and emotional support animals.
- · The amount of training required for each.
- · What animals qualify as service animals?
- · What do state and federal laws have to say about each category.
- · Do animals really make a difference in lives and how?
- · Care and labeling of the animal while in public.
- · Can you train your own service animal, if so, how?
- · What does training look like in public?
Keeping Your Employees Safe Identify A Public Threat
- 3 CE Hours Approved by the West Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine
Purpose:
In West Virginia, the freedom to carry firearms openly without a permit is a fundamental aspect of state law. This means that encountering firearms in our communities is a common occurrence. However, with this liberty comes the responsibility to understand how to safely navigate situations where firearms may be present.
In urgent or unforeseen circumstances where immediate action is necessary to protect lives and health, knowing how to respond can mean the difference between life and death. At Mama Bear Protection, we recognize the critical importance of equipping ourselves and our employees with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage such situations.
Even if you don't personally carry a firearm, understanding how to stay safe in its presence is paramount. Our mission is to empower individuals and businesses with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate emergencies confidently and effectively.
From practical safety protocols to tailored defense plans, we provide comprehensive training and support to ensure that you are prepared to handle any situation that may arise. Because when it comes to emergency response, knowledge truly is your best defense.
Join us at Mama Bear Protection, where we prioritize your safety and well-being by empowering you with the knowledge and resources needed to protect yourself and those around you..
What Will Be Presented:
- · Identify the public threat
- · Countering the threat
- · The legal use of force
- · Mass Casualty Incidents
Certified Instructors CPR/First Aid/AED
- 3 CE Hours The American Red Cross is an accredited provider of the International Association of Continuing Training
Purpose:
Key reasons to take a CPR/First Aid/AED class:
- Life-saving potential: You can potentially save a life by knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED during a cardiac emergency, where every second counts.
- Increased confidence in emergencies: Training builds confidence to act decisively in stressful situations and know what to do when encountering an emergency.
- Ability to help others: This training allows you to assist not only family members but also anyone in your community who might experience a medical crisis.
- Basic first aid knowledge: Beyond CPR, you learn basic first aid skills to manage various injuries until professional help arrives.
- Understanding of AED usage: Learning how to use an AED, a device that can deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm, is crucial in cardiac arrest situations.
- Community impact: Widespread CPR and AED training can significantly improve survival rates in a community
Instructor Led Classes and Blended (part online) Learning Classes
Bird Conservation
Golden Wings Project at LRCBNB
On the breeding grounds, this species requires expansively forested landscapes comprised of young forests and shrubland patches used for nesting that are interspersed among a diversity of other forest age-classes that are used to raise fledglings. Early successional habitat in the bird’s breeding range, the Upper Midwest and Appalachian Mountains, has declined over the past 50 years as aging forests have come to dominate huge expanses. Both game and non-game species that rely on younger forests are in decline, including the golden-winged warbler, which has suffered a 66 percent population decline since the 1960s. This major shift in the age classes of forests is the result of a lack of fires that occurred historically and unsustainable forestry practices that do not result in healthy, structurally diverse forests.Most of the golden-winged warbler’s nesting habitat falls on private lands, including Appalachia where 80 percent of forestland is privately owned. Landowners are helping the at-risk bird and many associated wildlife species by voluntarily improving the health and diversity of their forests. Forest landowners in Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia are helping the golden-winged warbler rebound by voluntarily conserving habitat on their land. We are proud to say we are working to help with this effort. For more information check out the link below.
Support Our Learning Programs
Your support for the West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, is instrumental in helping us achieve our goals and expand access to experiential education for a wider audience. Your generous donation will directly contribute to acquiring the necessary equipment, enabling us to fulfill our mission of teaching traditional skills to our community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in preserving and passing on these valuable traditions to future generations.
Experience WV at home, buy the first book in the series
Book 1 in the "Experience West Virginia" Series.
Buy it now using the QR code below!
Working in Cooperation With
