River Farm

For Virginians seeking a tranquil escape into nature, the area around Boyce, VA, offers some truly picturesque settings. Our state boasts a wealth of natural beauty, and the Shenandoah Valley, where Boyce is located, is no exception. When considering outdoor experiences, it's essential to understand the different types of camping available and the regulations that govern them. "River Farm" in Boyce, VA, has been mentioned as a location offering camping, and for local users, it's important to be aware of its specific operational status to ensure a safe and lawful outdoor adventure.

While the area offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and access to the Shenandoah River, the nature of camping operations can vary. Some properties may operate as private land camping experiences, often listed on platforms like Hipcamp, which connect campers with landowners. These can offer unique, secluded opportunities. However, for any commercial camping operation, compliance with local zoning and permitting regulations is paramount. Understanding these details helps Virginians make informed choices for their outdoor recreational activities, ensuring both an enjoyable and responsible experience in our beautiful Commonwealth.

"River Farm" is located at 1348 Tilthammer Mill Rd, Boyce, VA 22620, USA. This address places it in Clarke County, Virginia, a region renowned for its scenic landscapes, agricultural heritage, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River. For Virginians, its location offers a relatively accessible escape into nature, particularly for those residing in Northern Virginia or the greater D.C. metropolitan area. The drive typically involves scenic routes through Virginia's countryside.

The property itself is described as 280 picturesque acres running along the Shenandoah River for over a mile, set in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This natural setting provides significant opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying river access. However, it is crucial for local users to be aware of specific concerns regarding the operation of "River Farm" as a commercial campground. According to public records and customer reviews, Clarke County has issued a "Cease and Desist" letter to the owners regarding the property's operation as a commercial campground due to a lack of permits. This information is reportedly on file at the Clarke County Planning Department. While the property may be listed on platforms like Hipcamp for private land camping, any commercial operation without proper permits raises significant questions about its legality and the facilities it can legitimately offer. Therefore, while the location itself is desirable for its natural beauty, potential visitors should exercise caution and verify the current legal status of any commercial camping operations at this address with Clarke County authorities.

Given the reported "Cease and Desist" letter from Clarke County concerning "River Farm's" operation as a commercial campground, it's important to approach the "Services Offered" section with this context. If the property is not permitted to operate commercially, then any services typically associated with a commercial campground (like maintained hookups, specific amenities, or regular guest services) would be unofficial or potentially unauthorized.

However, based on descriptions of the property when it has been listed on platforms like Hipcamp for private land camping, the following services have been mentioned, which might be provided by a landowner for private, non-commercial stays, but their legality for commercial operation is disputed:

• RV/Tent Sites: Descriptions suggest areas for pitching tents or parking RVs. Some listings imply privacy for each site.

• Picnic Table & Fire Ring: Individual sites often include these basic camping essentials.

• Potable Water Access: Some sites have mentioned access to drinking water.

• Porta-Jon/Clean Restrooms: Reviewers on Hipcamp have mentioned access to clean porta-potties or even a restroom in a main building.

• On-Site Wood Sales: Firewood may be available for purchase directly from the farm.

• Farm Store Access: A small farm store on the property may offer drinks, edibles, and grass-fed beef from the farm.

• Pet-Friendly: The property often welcomes dogs.

It is crucial for any Virginian considering a stay at "River Farm" to understand that if the operation is indeed lacking commercial permits, the provision of these services in a commercial capacity could be in violation of local regulations. Visitors seeking a legitimate commercial campground experience should verify the legal standing of any operation at this address with the Clarke County Planning Department.

Similar to the "Services Offered," the "Features / Highlights" of "River Farm" must be considered in light of the reported "Cease and Desist" order from Clarke County. While the natural attributes of the property are undeniable, any commercial highlighting of features for public use would be subject to local permitting regulations.

Based on descriptions from platforms where "River Farm" has been listed for private camping, the following have been highlighted as features:

• Scenic Location: The property spans 280 acres with over a mile of frontage along the Shenandoah River, offering "beautiful and peaceful" surroundings with "mountain views" of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

• River Access: Direct access to the Shenandoah River is a major highlight, with mentions of a "swimming hole" and opportunities for fishing. Kayak access has also been noted.

• Secluded Sites: Campers have praised the privacy, stating "sites are spread out and plenty of privacy" and "enjoy privacy like no other campground you have stayed at." Some sites offer "2 acres all to yourself."

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The property is described as having "great trails to hike" and roads that are "great for biking."

• Farm Experience: As a working cattle farm, visitors may have opportunities to see animals like dwarf goats and even purchase grass-fed beef directly from the farm, which has been a "favorite part" for some.

• Family and Pet-Friendly: Reviews often highlight it as "great for families and kids" and "dog-friendly," with ample space for both.

• Stargazing: Given its rural location away from significant light pollution, the property likely offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

• Proximity to Wine Country: The farm is described as being "in the heart of Va. Wine country," suggesting nearby wineries for day trips.

It's important for Virginians to understand that while these features may exist on the private property, their availability for commercial public use is contingent upon the property having the necessary permits from Clarke County. Potential visitors should confirm the current legal status and permitted uses of the property before making plans based on these highlighted features.

As per the provided information and public records, "River Farm" in Boyce, VA, has been issued a "Cease and Desist" letter from Clarke County due to operating as a commercial campground without the necessary permits. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that "Promotions or Special Offers" would be legitimately advertised or available for a commercial camping operation that is currently deemed illegal by local authorities.

Any "offers" previously made, or current listings on platforms that facilitate private land camping (such as Hipcamp), would pertain to private arrangements between a landowner and individual campers, not a regulated commercial campground. These might involve:

• Pricing per site or group: Private listings typically specify a price per night for a certain number of guests, with additional fees for extra guests.

• Optional add-ons: Some private land hosts might offer additional services like bundles of firewood for sale.

• Extended stay rates: Longer stays on private land might come with a slight per-night reduction, but this would be at the discretion of the landowner.

However, it cannot be stressed enough that these are not promotions from a legally operating commercial campground. For Virginia locals considering any form of stay at this location, the primary "offer" to be aware of is the potential legal non-compliance. It is strongly advised to directly contact the Clarke County Planning Department to understand the current legal standing of any commercial camping activities at this address before making any plans or financial commitments. Relying on information about promotions for an unpermitted commercial operation could lead to disappointment or complications.

For Virginians seeking information about "River Farm" in Boyce, VA, particularly concerning its status and any potential for camping, here is the provided address and ways to gain clarity regarding its operational permits:

Address: 1348 Tilthammer Mill Rd, Boyce, VA 22620, USA

Phone: There is no publicly listed phone number specifically for "River Farm" as a commercial campground. Any contact would typically be through platforms like Hipcamp if it is listed for private land camping, or directly with the landowner if known.

However, to address the critical information about the "Cease and Desist" letter and to verify the legal status of any commercial camping operations at this location, Virginia locals should contact the relevant local government authority:

Clarke County Planning Department

It is advisable to search for the official contact information for the Clarke County Planning Department online or via the Clarke County government website. This department would be able to confirm whether any permits have been issued or if the "Cease and Desist" order remains in effect, providing definitive information about the legality of a commercial campground at this address. This direct verification is essential for any Virginia resident planning a trip to "River Farm" for camping purposes.

Considering the information available, particularly the reported "Cease and Desist" letter from Clarke County regarding "River Farm's" operation as a commercial campground, it is crucial for Virginia locals to approach this location with informed caution. While the natural setting, with its Shenandoah River frontage and Blue Ridge Mountain views, is undoubtedly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts, the legal status of any commercial camping activity is paramount.

For Virginians, the suitability of "River Farm" largely depends on whether one is seeking a legitimate, permitted commercial campground or is exploring private land camping opportunities through platforms that vet landowners. If the intent is to visit a legally operating commercial campground with all the associated assurances (safety regulations, permitted facilities, and clear operational guidelines), then "River Farm," based on the current public information, may not be suitable. The absence of proper permits could imply a lack of adherence to safety standards and zoning requirements, which is a significant concern for any local user.

However, if "River Farm" is exclusively operating as a private land camping site (e.g., through platforms like Hipcamp) where campers understand they are guests on private property with minimal amenities, then its appeal shifts. For those seeking extreme seclusion and a rustic experience on a beautiful farm, with the understanding that they are not visiting a traditional, permitted campground, it might offer a unique retreat. Reviews from such platforms highlight the "private," "secluded," and "beautiful" nature of the sites, along with river access and friendly host interactions.

Ultimately, for Virginia locals, the primary recommendation is to prioritize legal compliance and safety. Before planning any visit or making reservations, it is imperative to directly contact the Clarke County Planning Department to verify the current permit status of any commercial camping operations at "River Farm." This due diligence will ensure that your outdoor experience in Virginia is not only enjoyable but also safe and fully compliant with local regulations. There are many other fully permitted and reputable campgrounds across Virginia that offer fantastic experiences.

River Farm

1348 Tilthammer Mill Rd, Boyce, VA 22620, USA