The Creekside Cabin Retreat offers more than just a stunning setting and historical context; it presents ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation that appeal to all ages. Whether you are drawn to water sports, fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the water, there is something here for everyone. Recreational enthusiasts will find this location to be a haven that caters to outdoor lifestyles. With trails weaving through scenic vistas and ample opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Creekside is a sanctuary where time slows down to a crawl. An immaculate log cabin serves as a home base for all who visit Creekside.  The cabin, located by free-flowing Dunlap Creek, captures the hum of rushing water as well as the picturesque view of the year-round stream and stunning sheer rock cliff backdrop.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Eleven acres adjoining the 1.8-million-acre George Washington National Forest
• An immaculate log cabin is home base for all other recreational and leisure pursuits
• Dark skies with little to no light pollution for stargazing, planet observation, star-walking and astrophotography
• Free flowing Dunlap Creek runs through the property for 2/10 mile
• A four-season property – mild winters, cool summers, and near perfect springs and falls
• Diverse topography creates a wonderful natural setting
• White tail deer, black bear, red/gray fox, bobcat, wild turkey, coyote, grouse, squirrel, raccoon, fox, rabbit, and salamanders make up the resident wildlife population
• Winged wildlife includes eagles, hawks, owls, ravens, several types of birds, and Neotropical songbirds
• Many species of trees, plants, and wildflowers paint a vibrant tapestry
• Moss and lichen-covered sheer rock cliffs serve as the Creekside cabin’s stunning backdrop
• Surrounded by the GWNF, private wooded tracts, and mountain farms, in a quite rural neighborhood
• Electricity and phone onsite, great access
• 20 minutes to Covington, the county seat of Alleghany County
• One hour to the 2,500-acre Lake Moomaw
• 90 minutes to the Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Airport
• Low taxes, low population density

SHOWING INSTRUCTIONS

A Foxfire Agent must be present in order to visit this property.  48 hours notice is required.  Contact the Foxfire Realty office at 304.645.7674 to schedule a visit to this property.

LOCATION

Google Coordinates: 37.754657°(N), -80.154875°(W)
Address:  5550 Dunlap Creek Rd., Covington, VA 24426.
Elevation Range: 1552 ft. to 1579 ft. +/-

Driving times (approximate)

Highway/Towns
I-64 Callaghan Exit 10: 10 minutes
Covington, VA: 20 minutes
Lewisburg, WV: 25 minutes
Lexington, VA: 1 hour
Roanoke, VA: 1 hour 30 minutes
Charlotte, NC: 4 hours 10 minutes
Union, WV: 40 minutes
White Sulphur Springs, WV: 25 minutes
Washington, D.C.: 3 hours 40 minutes

Airports

Greenbrier Valley Airport, Lewisburg, WV: 35 minutes
Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, Roanoke, VA: 1 hour 25 minutes

Recreation

Golf – Lewisburg Elks Country Club, Lewisburg, WV: 30 minutes
Golf – The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV: 25 minutes
Golf – The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA: 50 minutes
Golf – Valley View Country Club, White Sulphur Springs, WV: 30 minutes
Lake – Lake Moomaw: 1 hour
Lake – Moncove Lake, Gap Mills, WV: 35 minutes
Resort – The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV: 25 minutes
Resort – The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA: 50 minutes
State Park – Douthat State Park: 40 minutes
State Park – Moncove Lake State Park: 35 minutes

CABIN HIGHLIGHTS

• 1,000 sq. ft. log cabin – immaculate condition
• Built in 2006
• Metal roof
• Open space Living/Kitchen/Dining room concept
• Two bedrooms
• One full bathroom
• Propane fireplace heats entire cabin
• Electric split unit cools and heats
• Kitchen island with granite countertop and seating
• Laminate flooring
• Beautiful and spacious kitchen cabinetry
• Solid surface vanity top
• Concrete 7’ pier foundation
• Large covered front porch 10’ X 36’
• Large covered back porch 10’ X 36’ with views of Dunlap Creek
• Outdoor fireplace
• Outdoor storage building
• Gravel driveway
• Conveys at closing: Refrigerator, Range, Dishwasher, Microwave, Clothes Washer and Dryer
• May consider selling furniture also

Room Sizes

• Great Room (Kitchen, Dining, Living) 27’4” x 15’3”
• Bedroom 1, 11’5” x 12’1”
• Bedroom 2, 12’5” x 10’
• Full Bathroom 7’ x 9’
• Laundry 5’ x 2’8”
• Pantry 3’6” x 2’8”
• Front Screened Porch 36’ x 10’
• Back Screened Porch 36’ x 10’
• Five closets

UTILITIES

Water – 100’ well
Sewer – private septic system with 1000’ gallon tank
Electric – Craig Botetourt
Propane – Amerigas (sellers own 500 gallon LP tank)
Television – DirecTV
High Speed Internet and Wi-Fi for cell phone coverage may be available through Starlink

WATER

The property has nearly 2/10 mile of frontage on Dunlap Creek, a significant stream that should have regular water flow.

MINERAL RESOURCES

All rights the owner has will convey with the property.

BOUNDARIES AND SURVEY

There is a metes and bounds description. The property is being sold by the boundary and not by the acre.

ACCESS/FRONTAGE

The property is accessed by a deeded right-of-way for a private roadway leading from the north side of U. S. Route No. 60 twelve feet in width.

ZONING

Alleghany County is subject to some zoning and subdivision regulations. All prospective buyers should consult the County Government Offices for details regarding zoning, building codes and installation of septic systems.

PROPERTY TYPE/USE SUMMARY

The property is comprised of the home grounds and mature forestland.

DEED and TAX INFORMATION

Deed Information: DB 397 Pg. 507
Alleghany County, Virginia
Acreage: 11 acres +/-

Real Estate Tax ID/Acreage/Taxes:
Alleghany County, Virginia
Tax Parcel 05300-00-000-0090

2024 Real Estate Taxes: $965.06

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Alleghany County School District

Public Elementary School:

Callaghan Elementary School

Public Middle School:
Covington Middle School

Public High School:
Alleghany High School

Colleges:
Dabney S. Lancaster Community College
Jackson River Technical Center

RECREATION AT CREEKSIDE CABIN RETREAT

The property offers unequaled recreational opportunities. Numerous soft recreational activities are anchored by Dunlap Creek, the adjoining George Washington National Forest, and nearby Lake Moomaw.

Nature viewing is first in line of recreational activities. Wildlife management has been geared not to just game animals. Equal consideration has been extended to increasing the numbers and diversity of species including neo-tropical songbirds, butterflies, turtles, frogs, rabbits, chipmunks, dragonflies, owls, hawks.Stargazing-Planet Observation, Star Walking and Astrophotography
Considerable darkness can still be found on most of the property, thereby affording the opportunity to view and photograph the night sky in all its brilliant wonder.Water-sports enthusiasts will find Dunlap Creek and nearby Lake Moomaw ideal for swimming, boating, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, tubing, snorkeling, paddle boarding and windsurfing.

Rock climbing enthusiasts will find all the terrain they could ever wish for to enjoy this extreme sport on site and in the adjoining GW National Forest.  There is no shortage of rugged hollows with rock outcrops and huge boulders as well as never roaded terrain too inaccessible to access except on foot.Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding and Hiking

The established hiking trails, onsite and in the adjoining GW National Forest, may be used for mountain biking or horseback riding. The trails are designed to be on gentle grades but some trails coming off Dunlap Creek offer a more challenging climb.

WILDLIFE

The local ecosystem has a richness and diversity for both plants and animals. Dunlap Creek’s surrounding aquatic plant life creates a water supported community with a wide variety of wildlife. Some of the margins of the creek are fringed by lowlands, and these lowlands support the aquatic food web, provide shelter for wildlife, and stabilize the shore of the streams. The plant life associated with the wetland includes rushes, sedges, cattails, duckweed and algae.

There are many animals that live in and around the edges of Dunlap Creek and nearby rivers, lakes and creeks. These species include native fish, beaver, otters, mink, raccoons, opossums, blue herons, Canada geese, wood ducks, mallards, minnows, fish, turtles, salamanders, newts, crayfish, muskrat, bull frogs, eagles, hawks and redwing blackbirds.

There is the insect and microscopic world including butterflies, dragonflies, pond skaters, water beetles, damselflies, tadpoles and various insect larve.

The property has a mixture of mature hardwood species and pine forest. The diverse tree species, coupled with the abundant water supply from Dunlap Creek create the perfect wildlife habitat. The miles of “edge effect” created between the creek, hollows, ridges, rock outcrops and forest are the textbook habitat benefiting all the resident wildlife.  White tail deer, black bear, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, bobcat, raccoon, fox, coyote and many species of songbirds, woodpeckers, owls and raptors make up the resident wildlife population.

The hardwood forest provides an essential nutrient source and produces tons of hard mast including acorns, hickory nuts, beech nuts and black walnuts. Soft mast includes stag horn sumac, black cherry, tulip poplar seeds, maple seeds, autumn olive berries and blackberries.

THE SURROUNDING AREA

ALLEGHANY COUNTY

Creekside is in Alleghany County, Virginia in the far Southwest Allegheny Mountains. The region is known as Virginia’s Western Highlands.

Alleghany County is on the far western edge of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is bordered by the Allegheny Mountains, from which the county derives its name, and it is the northernmost part of the Roanoke Region. The county seat is Covington.

As of the 2010 census, the population was 16,250. The county economy is dominated by Smurfit Stone, which operates a paperboard mill in Covington, the second largest on the East Coast and an extrusion and converting facility in Low Moor. Both Alleghany County and Covington, are known for the low cost of its housing market and proximity to The Homestead in Bath County.  The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs is a 20-minute drive.

Amtrak, the national passenger rail service, provides service to the Clifton Forge station with the Cardinal route. Also, Clifton Forge serves a major locomotive fuel facility for CSX Transportation.

The area is serviced by Interstate 64 (east-west) and Route 220 (north-south) offering rail, truck and interstate access to the area. Rail passenger service is provided at the Amtrak station in Clifton Forge, VA.

COVINGTON

Creekside is 20 minutes from Covington, founded in 1819, and is an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Generally, all small city amenities are available in Covington with big box stores, hospital, medical & dental, grocery, auto parts, hardware, building supply etc.

As of the 2010 census, the population was 5,961, making it the third-least populous city in Virginia. It is surrounded by Alleghany County, of which it is also the county seat. Located at the confluence of Jackson River and Dunlap Creek. The local newspaper of record is The Virginian Review, which has been continuously published since August 10, 1914.

Covington is named in honor of General Leonard Covington, hero of the War of 1812 and friend of James Madison and Thomas Jefferson.

Covington has one 8–12 high school (Covington High School), one 4–7 middle school called (Jeter-Watson), one pre-kindergarten through third grade elementary school (Edgemont Primary), one State Governors School (Jackson River Governor’s School), one technical center for high-school students (Jackson River Technical Center), and one community college (Dabney Lancaster).

JACKSON RIVER

The Jackson River is a major tributary of the James River in Virginia, flowing 96 miles. The 348-mile-long James River is formed by the confluence of the Jackson River and the Cowpasture River. The James is Virginia’s longest river.

The Jackson River rises in Highland County, Virginia, near the border of West Virginia. It flows south between Back Creek Mountain and Jack Mountain, entering Bath County, where it continues to flow south. The Jackson River is impounded by Gathright Dam in Alleghany County, creating Lake Moomaw. From the dam, Jackson River flows south and then east through Alleghany County, through the city of Covington and the town of Clifton Forge, before joining with the Cowpasture River to create the James River.

The river is named for the first European settler on its banks, William Jackson, who received a grant of 270 acres from King George II in 1750. Jackson was possibly an acquaintance of Alexander Dunlap, the first settler on the Cowpasture River.

LAKE MOOMAW

Lake Moomaw is among the most popular developed recreation areas in the George Washington National Forest and provides an endless array of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, biking and camping. The 2,530-acre lake is renowned for its excellent fishing yielding citation size brown and rainbow trout, as well as good bass, pan and crappie.

Lake Moomaw is the second largest impoundment in western Virginia. It covers 2,530 surface acres and has a maximum depth of 152 feet. The impoundment is “drawn down” between 10-15 feet annually, beginning slowly in June and reaching its lowest level usually by September. There are 43 miles of undeveloped, wooded shoreline. There are 5 U.S. Forest Service Campgrounds around the lake, 3 boat launches and a marina.

The Gathright Dam is a massive earthen structure that backs up the Jackson River for over 12 miles, forming Lake Moomaw. A U. S. Army Corps of Engineers project, Lake Moomaw was constructed for downstream flow augmentation (water quality), flood control, and recreation. The idea for a lake above the City of Covington was suggested just after World War II, but the project was not completed until the early 1980’s. The backwater of the Jackson River flooded acres of bottomland once owned by Thomas Gathright. The project was pushed forward by Covington businessman Benjamin Moomaw, after which the lake was named.

The reservoir is deep enough (152 feet) for both warm water fish (bass, catfish, sunfish, crappie) and coldwater fish (trout). The lake was stocked with thousands of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish in 1980. The Jackson River was already home to wild populations of smallmouth bass, rock bass, and chain pickerel, so it was understood that these species would acclimate to their new surroundings. Black crappie and yellow perch were later additions to the fishery.

Lake Moomaw is also known for its trout fishery.  A layer of cold, oxygenated water lies 15 feet below the surface. It is in this zone that stocked rainbow, brown, and brook trout thrive. Alewives, members of the herring family, were stocked in the early 1980’s to establish a plentiful food base for both trout and other predators. These small, silvery fish are truly the “backbone” of the lake’s sport fishery. They are abundant, ubiquitous, and seemingly the prey of choice for trophy fish that are caught from Lake Moomaw.

Approximately 35,000 McConaughy and 35,000 brown trout finglerlings are stocked each year. Fingerlings switch to natural food quickly and reach quality size in a couple of years. Neither a trout license nor National Forest Stamp is required at Lake Moomaw. There are no boat motor restrictions.

GEORGE WASHINGTON NATIONAL FOREST

Creekside Cabin Retreat’s Magnificent Neighbor

Creekside Cabin Retreat has a very special neighbor, the magnificent 1.8 million acre George Washington National Forest. Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Virginia and West Virginia, the George Washington National Forest beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Covering over 1.8 million acres, this expansive forest offers a haven for those seeking escape and exploration. With its winding hiking trails, idyllic camping spots, and opportunities for forest exploration, visitors find no shortage of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time camper, the forest provides a diverse range of experiences to enjoy.

The Beauty of George Washington National Forest

Diverse Flora and Fauna

One of the most remarkable features of the George Washington National Forest is its incredible array of plant and animal life. The forest is home to hundreds of species of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers that paint a vibrant tapestry with every change of season. Among these are the stately oak, maple, and pine trees that provide ample shade and shelter for creatures residing within the forest.

Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the diverse animals that call this forest home. Whether you’re spotting a white-tailed deer gracefully leaping through the underbrush or catching a glimpse of an Eastern box turtle crossing a trail, there’s always something fascinating to observe. Birdwatchers can revel in the variety of avian species such as the melodious wood thrush or the vibrant scarlet tanager, adding an extra layer of nature appreciation for visitors.

Popular Hiking Trails

With such diverse terrain, the George Washington National Forest offers an abundance of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a leisurely hike or a seasoned hiker in search of a challenge, the forest has something for everyone.

Beginning hikers or families with young children, may enjoy one of the Forest’s easier trails.  The Storybook Trail, for example, is a short and accessible hike that offers interpretive signs, making it both educational and enjoyable for all ages. Another beginner-friendly option is the Douthat State Park Trails.  Seasoned hikers looking for a bit more excitement will find plenty of challenging trails that test their endurance and offer rewarding views. The Three Ridges Trail is renowned for its steep ascents and rocky terrain, providing an exhilarating experience for those prepared for the journey. It includes multiple overlooks that present sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. Meanwhile, the Dragon’s Tooth Trail, known for its unique rock formations, offers a thrilling climb that is sure to satisfy any adventurer seeking a higher level of difficulty.

Serene Camping Spots

The George Washington National Forest, spanning over a million acres, offers a diverse range of camping experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re camping with family or seeking solitude, this national forest has the perfect spot for you.

A few of the camping opportunities include Sherando Lake Recreation Area, which offers picnic areas, a swimming beach, and easy access to hiking trails; Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area offers picnicking and fishing as well as hiking trails; and Lot Mountain Campground, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers stunning panoramic views, guided ranger programs and the convenience of nearby hiking trails suitable for children.

Solitude seekers will find the Staunton River Wilderness Campground, Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness, and Three Ridges Wilderness.

Adventure Activities

The George Washington National Forest is not just for camping—its diverse landscapes make it a hot spot for a wide range of adventure activities. Whether you are scaling heights or riding trails, the forest has something exciting to offer.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

The mountainous terrain of the George Washington National Forest provides countless rock formations that appeal to climbers of all levels.

Rock Climbing enthusiasts may enjoy the Priest and Three Ridges, which offers both beginner-friendly climbs and rigorous ascents for seasoned climbers.  The Hidden Valley rock formation is known for its impressive boulders and climbing routes and is a prime spot for bouldering. It’s an excellent area for climbers to practice their skills surrounded by nature.

Fishing in Pristine Streams

Fishing is a popular activity in the forest, thanks to its clear streams and abundant fish populations.

The Jackson and James River are known for their high-quality fly-fishing opportunities, these rivers are ideal for anglers interested in catching trout.  Nearby to CCR is Lake Moomaw, a 2,500 acre body of water, which hosts a variety of fish species. Anglers can enjoy both shore and boat fishing, making it a versatile fishing destination.

Mountain Biking Trails

Trail enthusiasts will find a thrilling selection of mountain biking routes throughout the forest.

Douthat State Park Trails offer over 40 miles of biking trails. Douthat offers a mix of terrain that challenges both novice and expert riders. The trails wind through mountains and valleys, providing breathtaking views.

The Montgomery Hall Park Trail Network offers smooth and flowing trails, ideal for those looking to enjoy a leisurely ride combined with a bit of adventure.

Conclusion

The George Washington National Forest offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With its vast network of hiking trails and numerous camping spots, it’s a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of forest exploration. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual camper, or just someone seeking serenity in nature, this forest has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the wonders of this natural treasure firsthand.

DUNLAP CREEK

Located amidst serene landscapes lies Dunlap Creek, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities.  Situated in western Virginia, this peaceful waterway is easily accessible from nearby small towns and cities. The creek meanders through lush forests, providing a natural sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. Its location offers a quiet retreat, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life, yet close enough for a weekend getaway. The surrounding areas are dotted with charming small towns, each offering a glimpse into the local culture and history.

Historical Significance of Dunlap Creek

Dunlap Creek holds a unique place in the hearts of those who live nearby as well as visitors. From its connections to early civilizations to its transformation over the centuries, Dunlap Creek has been a silent witness to vast historical changes.

Before European settlers arrived, the area around Dunlap Creek was inhabited by various Native American tribes. These tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, were integral to the region’s early development. They relied on the rich resources provided by the creek, using its waters for fishing and its banks for shelter and trade. The creek served as a significant source of sustenance and played a vital role in their daily lives and spiritual practices. The tribes recognized the land’s fertile qualities, honoring it through rituals and storytelling that praised the natural world.

With the arrival of settlers in the late 18th century, interactions began between the local tribes and the newcomers. The proximity to water made Dunlap Creek a favorable spot for settlers who established trading posts, thereby embedding themselves into the burgeoning network of colonial America. Despite periods of strife, these early interactions laid the groundwork for the vibrant settlements that eventually emerged.

Drainage and Basin Information for Dunlap Creek, Virginia

Dunlap Creek stretches over 29 miles and is an integral part of the larger James River Basin, one of the most significant watershed systems in Virginia.  The creek plays a crucial role in the drainage system as it channels water from its tributaries into the Jackson River, which ultimately flows into the James River.

Dunlap Creek forms at Earlehurst in Alleghany County, Virginia, by the confluence of Back Creek and Sweet Springs Creek, both of which rise to the southwest in Monroe County, West Virginia. Dunlap Creek flows northeast and then easterly joining the Jackson River north of the center of the city of Covington, Virginia.  The Jackson River flows 96 miles, and is a major tributary of the James River.

The James River flows 348 miles to Chesapeake Bay.  The James River is the longest river in Virginia.  Jamestown and Williamsburg, Virginia’s first colonial capitals, and Richmond, Virginia’s current capital, lie on the James River.

Unique Geological Features

Dunlap Creek, which meanders through the lush terrain of Alleghany County, is a sandstone-hewn waterway that presents a diverse geological profile.  The creek flows through a diverse range of terrains, including rolling hills, dense woodlands, and rocky outcrops. These formations are primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and limestone and have been sculpted over thousands of years, creating striking landscapes that captivate visitors. The region is rich in sedimentary rocks, making it a fascinating spot for geology enthusiasts. Additionally, the soil composition supports an abundance of vegetation that thrives in this natural setting, underscoring the creek’s ecological significance and showcases its complex geological history dating back to ancient depositional environments.

 Wide Array of Area Recreation Activities

Dunlap Creek offers more than just a stunning setting and historical context; it presents ample opportunities for recreation that appeals to all ages. Whether you are drawn to water sports, fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the water, there is something here for everyone. Recreational enthusiasts will find this location to be a paradise that caters to outdoor lifestyles. With trails weaving through scenic vistas and ample opportunities for birdwatching and photography, Dunlap Creek is a haven for those who love to explore.