Oh wow. Galleywinter!

The Barn at Galleywinter is one of the coolest places we've stayed at.

It's located just a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a great jumping on or jumping off point for those looking to access the southernmost part of Shenandoah National Park. Also within really close distance is the George Washington National Forest and the Appalachian Trail. Not into hiking, no worries, there are several local breweries around. If that's not your thing either, this place is the perfect spot for a quiet retreat where you can spend time in nature and just regroup alone with a book or a sketchpad.

The host, Gail, is one of the kindest, most heart-centered people we've run into while field scouting. She showed us around her property and we thoroughly enjoyed just spending time with her. She's takes a minute to think before she answers and we found that to be a breath of fresh air in what feels like a really fast-moving world.

As for the property itself, it's just gorgeous. There's a nicely groomed gravel drive (look for the Galleywinter sign at the entrance to the property) that's lined with mature trees and short rock piles. Follow that road all the way on up to the barn and then allow yourself to slow down, if just for a minute to fully take in what you're about to experience: a beautiful barn that is rustic and yet extremely clean and well-kept. The farm itself is an actual working horse farm and even has it's own organic garden. We found the property to just "feel good in our bones." The barn itself was uncluttered and appealing with hard-wood floors and cool books and things to look at (like a couple of animal skulls!). The space was obviously well-loved and well-cared for. There's a single bed in the barn but Caroline and I chose to sleep on the bed that was made up for us on the floor. Though the barn was unheated and temps dipped into the thirties, we were warm under the wool blankets and comforter that Gail provided. We slept peacefully under a shroud of true darkness (no streetlights anywhere) and woke feeling rested and eager to start the day.

And start the day we did, with coffee and tea already laid out for us with a kettle of water as well. We like our coffee strong and trust us, it was delicious.

Almost forgot to mention the yoga studio! There's a studio on the premises which was heated and had lots of nice natural light. Gail said classes happen twice a week and instructors can be brought in by request for yoga or massage.

We highly recommend this place and are already eager to return. If you're anywhere near Afton, Virginia, consider this site. Even if you're not, put it on your radar and make a point to visit. We'll be back for sure.

Group size

Pricing

Accessibility

Amenities

Activities

Terrain

Hookups

Vehicle length (ft)

James River State Park, Virginia

Book externally —

Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?

Book externally —

Explore more camping around here —