Explore local attractions
Historic McDowell battlefield
Nestled just minutes from Big Spring B&B lies the historic McDowell battlefield, where General Stonewall Jackson secured a key Civil War victory in May 1862 during his famed Shenandoah Valley campaign. Today, visitors can walk the scenic trail up Sitlington's Hill, explore well-preserved interpretive markers, and take in panoramic mountain views that combine deep American history with the pristine natural beauty of Highland County.
Town of historic McDowell
A short country drive from Big Spring B&B brings you to the charming village of McDowell, steeped in history and timeless rural heritage. Framed by the rolling peaks of Highland County and the Bullpasture River, this historic community invites guests to stroll quiet roadways, visit quaint local stops, and discover rich 19th-century architecture. After hiking the battlefield trails or fishing the nearby mountain streams, McDowell offers a delightful glimpse into small-town Virginia life.
Highland Wildlife Management Area and the Bullpasture River gorge
A short drive from Big Spring B&B, the Highland Wildlife Management Area showcases the dramatic scenery of the Bullpasture River gorge. Renowned for its steep limestone cliffs, pristine mountain waters, and lush hardwood forests, this protected haven offers exceptional trout fishing, scenic hiking trails, and premier birdwatching. Whether you are casting a fly into the crystal-clear currents or exploring the rugged canyon overlooks, it is an essential outdoor excursion for nature lovers visiting Highland County.
Discover Hayfield state park
Located just minutes from Big Spring B&B, Hayfield state park offers a peaceful natural escape filled with rolling mountain landscapes and quiet recreation. Spend an afternoon wandering shaded walking trails, enjoying scenic picnic spots, and taking in the tranquil wilderness that defines Virginia's scenic highlands. Whether you are looking for wildlife viewing, photography, or a serene afternoon stroll after exploring the Bullpasture River valley, this park provides an ideal destination to unwind in nature.
Spring Run fishing at Coursey Springs
Highland County and the surrounding valleys are renowned for world-class trout angling, with the Coursey Springs spring run standing out as an exceptional destination just a short drive from Big Spring B&B. Fed by consistent, cool limestone waters, the spring run provides ideal conditions for wild and stocked trout year-round. Anglers can test their skills along clean gravel beds and tranquil riffles surrounded by mountain vistas. Whether you are an experienced fly fisher searching for vibrant brook and brown trout or simply spending a quiet morning on the bank, this pristine spring creek offers one of the finest freshwater experiences in western Virginia.
Coursey Springs state fish hatchery and Cowpasture River public land
A wonderful daytime excursion from Big Spring B&B is the Coursey Springs state fish hatchery. A cornerstone of Virginia's trout raising program, the facility offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how hundreds of thousands of brook, brown, and rainbow trout are raised to stock pristine mountain streams across the commonwealth. Just below the hatchery grounds, public access land along the Cowpasture River opens up fantastic opportunities for wading, nature viewing, and casting a line into clean, cold waters. It is an engaging and educational destination for anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience Highland County's thriving aquatic conservation efforts firsthand.
