My partner and I decided we wanted to get away for our anniversary weekend and somehow managed to snag coveted camp spot at Tawney Farm for the last weekend of Gauley Season. While we weren’t there to whitewater raft, we had an amazing time just hanging around the farm, hiking the trails, getting to know Susan and James (and finding mutual connections in WV’s environmentalist circles), and spending time at Site 7. Not only does Tawney Farm offer extensive information about their campsites on their web page (telling you exactly what to expect), you’re also guaranteed access to very convenient amenities: a dish sink, hot showers, and porta-potty. Their sites offer options for socialization with the large field open for group camping, a fire always lit around the stage and group campsite, and friendly faces everywhere to be found. The folks who camp here are regulars, offering stories and sometimes beers in exchange for another friendly face. In addition to all of the wonderful camping perks, this place truly holds a wealth of knowledge and insight into West Virginia’s environmental history and culture. If you’re looking to know more about Appalachia, don’t be afraid to strike up conversation with the Tawneys, and make sure to book a wool felting craft experience and experience an art form as old as the region itself. Susan and James were wonderful hosts, and we cannot wait to come back earlier in the season to catch the farm while more of the annual rafters are milling about.