Tawney Farm, LLC

For those of us who cherish the "Wild and Wonderful" essence of West Virginia, seeking out a camping experience that truly allows us to disconnect and immerse ourselves in nature is a priority. Tucked away in the scenic Gauley River gorge near Summersville, you'll find Tawney Farm, LLC – a truly unique destination that combines authentic primitive camping with the charm of a working sheep farm. This isn't your average commercial campground; it's a special place that offers unparalleled seclusion, genuine hospitality, and a deep connection to our state's rural beauty.

Tawney Farm, LLC, also known to many as Gauley River Wild & Woolly Primitive Campground, is operated by the incredibly kind and helpful owners, Susan and James Tawney. Their dedication to providing a peaceful, immaculate, and welcoming environment shines through in every aspect of the guest experience. Imagine leaving the noise of daily life behind and waking up to the mist rising from the Gauley River, with the majestic West Virginia mountains as your backdrop. This is the everyday reality at Tawney Farm, where the emphasis is on simple pleasures and profound natural beauty.

Whether you're an avid kayaker drawn to the legendary Gauley River, a passionate hiker eager to explore the New River Gorge, or simply someone looking for a tranquil spot to reconnect with friends, family, and yourself, Tawney Farm provides the perfect setting. It’s a place where you can meet new friends around a campfire, enjoy great music, and even interact with the farm's resident animals, including their charming miniature horse, Peanut. For West Virginians seeking an authentic, unplugged, and deeply satisfying outdoor adventure, Tawney Farm, LLC offers an experience that truly captures the heart of our state.

Tawney Farm, LLC is located at 286 Arnette Rd, Summersville, WV 26651, USA. This strategic address places it directly adjacent to the breathtaking Gauley River National Recreation Area, nestled within the stunning Gauley River gorge between two picturesque mountains, one famously known as Panther Mountain. While the general address is Summersville, the owners provide specific, detailed directions on their website and advise against relying solely on GPS or Siri, as some rural West Virginia roads can be challenging.

For West Virginia residents traveling from various parts of the state, Tawney Farm is surprisingly accessible despite its secluded feel. Detailed directions from major routes like US Route 19, WV Route 129 (leading towards Summersville Lake and Dam), and I-64 East (via Exit 96 and WV Route 39 East) ensure a guided journey to the farm. This thoughtful guidance helps visitors navigate the scenic turns and gravel roads, leading them directly to this peaceful haven.

The campground’s proximity to major outdoor attractions is a significant draw. It’s just a short drive to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, offering world-class whitewater rafting, extensive hiking trails, and premier rock climbing. Summersville Lake and Dam, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and additional climbing opportunities, are also nearby. Crucially, Tawney Farm is within walking distance of the wild and beautiful Gauley River itself, providing easy access for kayaking, swimming, fishing, and exploring hidden waterfalls. This prime location makes it an ideal base for experiencing the best of West Virginia’s natural wonders.

Tawney Farm, LLC provides a unique blend of primitive camping amenities and farm-based experiences, designed to offer comfort and connection to nature:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The farm offers 8 distinct campsites. Three sites in the main field accommodate both campers and small RVs (up to 35 feet), as well as tent and vehicle camping. Three additional sites are for tent and vehicle camping only, while two are exclusively for tent camping – one requiring a short 3-minute hike and another a more strenuous 20-minute hike to a mountaintop for unparalleled night sky views and total privacy. All sites are spaciously separated for enhanced privacy.
• "The Nuthouse" Cabin Rental: For those who prefer a cabin experience, "The Nuthouse" is a cozy, two-room primitive cabin without hookups, where guests bring their own bed linens for a slightly less rustic stay.
• Essential Camp Amenities: All sites are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables. Park-style grills and fire pit grills are provided, and guests are welcome to bring their own small portable grills.
• Complimentary Firewood: Guests receive their first load of firewood free of charge, with additional loads available for a nominal fee ($5.00 a load), making it easy to enjoy a campfire.
• Clean Portable Toilets: Well-maintained portajohns are provided for guest convenience, with specific mention of a clean portajohn near the mountaintop site.
• Common Area Facilities: A common area includes a dishwashing station and a highly praised "to die for" outdoor hot water shower (available when temperatures are above freezing). Drinking water is also accessible.
• Farm-Fresh Eggs: Experience true farm-to-table goodness with farm-fresh eggs available for purchase ($5.00/dozen), which can be pre-ordered with your reservation.
• Wool Processing Education & Products: As a working Merino and Jacob sheep farm, guests have the unique opportunity to learn about wool and its processing. You can even participate in felting workshops and take home your creation. Raw wool, processed batts, and various wool products and crafts are available for sale at the campground office.
• Kayaks for Borrowing: A significant amenity highlighted by reviewers is the ability to borrow kayaks and paddles on-site, perfect for exploring the nearby Gauley River.
• Special Event Venue: The farm serves as an outdoor venue for private events, including family reunions, music festivals, corporate retreats, and group meetings.
• Nature Trails: Access to hiking and nature trails on the property for bird watching and exploring the scenic landscape.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, though they must remain on a leash at all times, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Tawney Farm, LLC truly stands out with a collection of unique features and highlights that create an unforgettable West Virginia camping experience:

• Unmatched Seclusion & Privacy: Unlike crowded commercial campgrounds, Tawney Farm offers "seclusion and privacy," with sites "spaciously separate" so campers feel like they "are the only campers here." This tranquil setting is a primary draw.
• Authentic Farm Experience: Guests get a rare opportunity to stay on a working Merino and Jacob sheep farm, meet the animals (sheep, miniature horse "Peanut", chickens, dogs, and cats), and even learn about wool processing, making it more than just a campsite.
• Exceptional Host Hospitality: Owners Susan and James are consistently lauded for being "very kind," "wonderful," "friendly and helpful," and going "out of their way to help us," creating a welcoming and safe environment.
• Direct Access to Gauley River & New River Gorge Area: Its proximity to the Gauley River National Recreation Area and a short drive to the New River Gorge National Park means world-class whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing are easily accessible.
• "Unplugged" Opportunity: The limited reception (as noted by a reviewer) encourages a genuine "disconnect for the weekend," fostering deeper connections with nature and companions, and allowing for appreciation of the quiet.
• Stunning Night Skies & Views: The mountaintop campsite offers "beautiful views and scenery, especially at night," with opportunities for "seeing shooting stars while we sat by the campfire." Even lower sites provide good views of the Gauley River gorge.
• "To Die For" Outdoor Hot Water Shower: A highly appreciated and luxurious amenity for a primitive campground, offering comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Loaner Kayak Paddles: The generous provision of loaner kayak paddles demonstrates the owners' dedication to guest convenience and enjoyment.
• Immaculate & Beautiful Grounds: Despite its primitive nature, the campground is praised for being "immaculate and beautiful," reflecting careful maintenance.
• Community & Music: The atmosphere encourages meeting "new friends" and enjoying "great music by the campfire," suggesting a warm, communal vibe.

As a privately owned and unique farm campground, Tawney Farm, LLC focuses on providing value through its distinctive offerings rather than conventional seasonal promotions. However, potential visitors should be aware of a key seasonal operational change:

• Complimentary First Load of Firewood: This is a standard inclusion that adds value to every stay.
• Farm-Fresh Eggs: While for purchase, the availability of fresh, local produce directly on-site is a special offering.
• Gauley Whitewater Season Shift: During the peak Gauley whitewater season (typically the weekend after Labor Day through Bridge Day in October), Tawney Farm shifts from individual site camping to a "festival-style camping" model in its main pasture field. This caters to the influx of rafters and might involve different pricing or booking arrangements. It is essential to check their website or contact them directly for details specific to this high-demand period, as the regular site camping may be discontinued.

For the most current information on pricing, availability for different site types (including "The Nuthouse"), and details regarding the Gauley Whitewater Season, it is highly recommended to visit their official website or contact James and Susan directly via phone or email. They are known for being very responsive and helpful in guiding potential guests.

Ready to experience the unique charm and natural beauty of Tawney Farm, LLC in West Virginia?

• Address: 286 Arnette Rd, Summersville, WV 26651, USA
• Phone: (304) 619-7332
• Mobile Phone: +1 304-619-7332
• Email: info@gauleyriverwildwoolly.com (as found on various tourism listings for the campground)
• Website: http://www.gauleyriverwildwoolly.com/ (for detailed directions and further information)

As noted, it's highly advisable to use their website or call directly for precise directions, as standard GPS might not be entirely reliable for rural West Virginia roads leading to the farm.

For West Virginians, Tawney Farm, LLC offers an unparalleled and deeply resonant outdoor experience, perfectly suited to our state's "Wild and Wonderful" ethos. We appreciate authenticity, and this working sheep farm turned primitive campground delivers just that – a chance to genuinely disconnect from the digital world and immerse ourselves in the quiet grandeur of the Appalachian mountains. The seclusion and privacy of the campsites, a rare find in many commercial settings, allow for true relaxation and a personal connection with nature, whether you're enjoying a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars or waking to the peaceful sounds of the farm.

The genuine hospitality of owners Susan and James Tawney is a significant draw. Their helpfulness, kindness, and willingness to share their farm and knowledge create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting old friends. This personal touch, combined with unique farm experiences like meeting the animals and learning about wool, adds layers of richness to a camping trip that goes far beyond typical recreation. We, as locals, value these connections to our agricultural heritage and the opportunity to support small, dedicated businesses in our communities.

Furthermore, Tawney Farm's strategic location near the legendary Gauley River and the vast New River Gorge National Park means that world-class outdoor adventures – from exhilarating whitewater rafting to serene kayaking, challenging hikes, and stunning photography opportunities – are all within easy reach. The availability of amenities like hot showers, drinking water, and even loaner kayaks (a true lifesaver for one reviewer!) demonstrates a thoughtful approach to primitive camping that enhances comfort without sacrificing the natural experience. For West Virginians seeking an authentic, peaceful, and uniquely engaging outdoor escape, Tawney Farm, LLC offers a perfect slice of Almost Heaven.