Managed and operated by the Waybright Family, this farm is distinguished as "Cutting Edge Agritourism," and is the heart of a collaborative effort among several businesses. Together, we weave a tapestry of distinctive learning experiences for our guests through the West Virginia School of Traditional Skills. Our area boasts over 920,000 acres of national forest, West Virginia's longest hiking trail, three state parks, and expansive wilderness areas, making it our backyard playground for unparalleled outdoor adventures! We extend a warm invitation to join our family and embark on an unforgettable journey to Experience West Virginia With Us!
Discover the essence of West Virginia during your stay at Laurel River Club BnB, or keep an eye out for our public events. All experiences are available by reservation only, and we also provide off-site presentations for your special events.
For further details, please contact us at 304-402-7095.
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.
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.
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.
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!"
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!
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.
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.
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!
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
Join West Virginia Master Flalconer, 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
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
(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
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
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
.
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.
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.
Book Now!
Your next adventure awaits!
For directions, simply search for us on Google Maps. Enter "LRCB&B" and you'll find our precise location pinned. We're situated just outside of Canaan Valley, WV.
417 Jenningston Farm Road, Bowden, WV 26254
Founded in 1972 by the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association.
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
Check out this YouTube video about the ALT
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.
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.