WanderLove is about reconnecting with what you love. Experience the mountain peaks, Shenandoah River, and all of the winding roads in between when you road trip through Rockingham County, Va.
From skiing in the winter and fly fishing in the spring to live music in the summer and changing leaves in the fall, there is something new to enjoy in every season. Discover the best spots to play, eat, and stay in this guide to Rockingham County.
Go Outside and Play
Over 177,000 acres of Rockingham County designated as public land, there’s something new to explore each time you visit. There is so much to do in Shenandoah National Park, from backcountry camping and fly fishing to rock climbing and miles of hiking trails. Take in the park from your car as you cruise around on Skyline Drive. Stop at one of the many overlooks along the way for stunning views of the mountains and valleys of central Virginia. Find new trails to hike and wild streams to wade in throughout George Washington National Forest and First Mountain State Forest.
With a few class I rapids, the South Fork of the Shenandoah River is the perfect waterway for a day on the water kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Head underground at the Endless Caverns for several cave rooms and one-of-a-kind formations. Don’t forget to check out the mountain bike park and backcountry trails for bikers of all abilities at Massanutten Resort.
Hit up one of the outfitters in the small town for all the gear and rentals you’ll need during your trip. Get on the waters of the Shenandoah Valley and fish for smallmouth and largemouth bass or native wild brook trout with Old Dominion Outfitter and Guide Services. From the South Fork of the Shenandoah River to the backcountry of Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest, find a quiet spot to cast a line and spend a day on or by the water. Stay comfortable out on the trail with apparel, footwear, backpacks, and more from Appalachian Trail Outfitters. Whether you’re searching for singletrack or backroads, stop by Mole Hill Bikes for all of your bicycling needs.
Hidden Gems
As the largest agricultural producing county in the commonwealth, spend some time exploring the farms of Rockingham County. Take in the sight and smell of over 8,000 lavender plants at White Oak Lavender Farm. Get the most out of the fall season with pumpkin patches and corn mazes at Every Soul Acres and Back Home-on the Farm. Pick apples and peaches from Showalter’s Orchard and Greenhouses or taste one of Old Hill Cider’s small-batch hard ciders available exclusively on the farm. Taste the best sugar-cured country ham from Turner Hams & Fulks Run Grocery.
Fuel Up
No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find a restaurant that fits your taste in Rockingham. Get your fill of delicious barbecue, homemade sauces, and a range of sides from Hanks Grille & Catering and Log Cabin Barbecue. Stop by El Paso Mexican Restaurant for authentic, seasonal dishes. For a relaxed atmosphere, the menus at the Thunderbird Café and Crossroads Café are filled with specialty sandwiches and down south cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch, Dayton Tavern offers fine dining in a downtown setting. There’s nothing better after an arduous adventure than a mouthwatering burger from Old 33 Beer & Burger Grille or The Cracked Pillar. Taste a little bit of everything, from pasta to nachos, from The Gobbler Grille. Hit up TOTS Ice Cream or Smiley’s Ice Cream for a homemade sweet treat that hits the spot.
Grab a drink at a brewery or vineyard after a long day outside. Just a short drive from Skyline Drive, Massanutten Resort, and Harrisonburg, Elkton Brewing Company is a great post adventure hangout spot with a locally brewed beer for everyone. As a sixth-generation farm, Cave Hill Farms Brewery is a family affair with a menu full of nachos and sliders. Take a tour of the area with stops at Brix & Columns Vineyards, Bluestone Vineyard, CrossKeys Vineyards, and Marceline Vineyards. Sip a glass of local wine as you take in the rolling hills of the valley.
LOVEworks
There are several places to grab a photo with ten LOVEworks throughout the county. The sign at Heritage Park represents a piece of Broadway’s history, including natural features and the railroad industry. Explore Rockingham County’s seven towns to find more pieces of local history.
Relax and Unwind
Cozy up at one of the lodging opportunities in the area. Whether you’re looking to rent a condo, home, or hotel room, Massanutten Resort has a spot for you close to the action. Stay in a restored, pre-revolutionary log cabin at Silver Lake Bed and Breakfast. The Village Inn offers a quiet getaway just outside of Harrisonburg with easy access to outdoor amenities.
Experience WanderLove for yourself when you visit Rockingham County, Va.
Please check local guidelines and regulations before making plans to get outside. Remember to practice social distancing guidelines, wear a mask, and respect others’ health when outside.
