Spring Into Something Wonderful in Clarke County, Virginia
Goats, Gardens & Gorgeous Landscapes
Step into the blooming beauty of Clarke County, Virginia. Just a short drive from Northern Virginia and the D.C. metro area, this undiscovered countryside will delight your senses with colorful gardens, beautiful vistas and cute farm animals. Connect with nature, with your favorite person, and maybe even with your inner child.
Here’s your playful (but very worthwhile) spring checklist:
Snuggle a Baby Goat (Yes, Really!)
Ready for the happiest hour you didn’t know you needed? Head to Silver Maple Farm for their wildly heartfelt Goat Snuggles experience in the barn complete with quilt-covered hay bales. The Nigerian Dwarf goats are miniature AND babies! You will be enamored with their sweet, curious and sometimes animated antics. Reserve your spot as limited Saturdays fill up quickly.
Silver Maple Farm | 1829 Withers Larue Road, Berryville, VA 22611 | (703) 999-8162
Wander Where Spring is in Full Bloom
At Blandy Experimental Farm—home to the State Arboretum of Virginia—spring doesn’t just arrive, it shows off. Use your smartphone for a self-guided audio tour that walks you through vibrant blooms, budding trees or try geocaching for a little outdoor treasure hunt. Don’t miss the forever popular Garden Fair event held May 9-10, 2026.
Virginia State Arboretum-Blandy Experimental Farm | 400 Blandy Farm Ln, Boyce, VA 22620 | (540) 837-1758 | Open daily, dawn to dusk | Free admission
Camp, Fish, Grill, Repeat
Turn your day trip into a weekend escape at Watermelon Park Campground. Nestled along the Shenandoah River, it is perfect for camping, fishing, grilling hotdogs and s’mores, or simply doing absolutely nothing (highly recommended). Tubing adventures open May 22, 2026.
Watermelon Park & RV Campground | 3322 Lockes Mill Rd, Berryville, VA 22611 | (540) 955-6622
Find Your Trail Moment
From rolling farmland views to peaceful wooded, waterfall paths, Clarke County is made for springtime exploration. Whether it is a quick nature break or a full-on AT hike, you’ll find fresh air and just enough quiet to reset. Personalize your hike HERE.
Shop, Sip & Stroll in Downtown Berryville
Charming and walkable Berryville Main Street is full of wonderful surprises! Browse local boutiques for one-of-a-kind gifts, have a spot of tea or treat yourself to a bite to eat (and yes, a dessert —spring calories don’t count). Don’t forget to check out the Bottoms Up Beverage Trail where sipping can earn you prizes with the passport program.
Say Hello to a Dinosaur
Quirky? Absolutely. Fun? 100%. Dinosaur Land is a roadside classic where 50+ life-sized prehistoric creatures make for unforgettable photos and a little nostalgic fun. Check out the gift shop that’s every kids dream!
Dinosaur Land | 3848 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, White Post, VA 22663 | (540) 869-2222 | Open daily 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Spring Events You’ll Love
April 18-May 3, 2026 Spring Art at the Mill – Held at the historic Burwell-Morgan Mill, this event brings together 300 regional artists, showcasing paintings, sculpture, woodworking, pottery in a historical grist mill where they still grind grains today.
May 9-10, 2026 Garden Fair – Fill your wagon with plants, flowers, herbs, gardening tools and celebrate Mother’s Day. Fair includes live music, scavenger hunts, food trucks and environmental education. Held at the Virginia State Arboretum-Blandy Experimental Farm.
May 15-17, 2026 Luckett’s Spring Market – Vintage decor, antiques, and one-of-a-kind must-haves—perfect for treasure hunters and design lovers alike. Held at the Clarke County Fairgrounds.
May-October Clarke County Farm Markets – Every Saturday from 8:00 am – 12 noon you’ll find the freshest fruits, veggies, meats and other hand-made favorites to eat clean and boost your health. Held at 317 West Main Street, Berryville, VA.
Escape to Clarke for Your Spring Adventure
In Clarke County, Virginia, spring is more than a season—it’s a feeling. It’s goats and gardens, trails and treasures, campfires and small-town charm with a beautiful backdrop.
Come for the day. Stay for the weekend. And don’t be surprised if you leave already planning your next visit!
