Discover Laurel River Club B&B’s farm-stay experience.
written by DONNA HERTO
photographed by NIKKI BOWMAN MILLS
Nestled in the scenic heart of Jenningston, near Bowden, the Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast (LRCB&B) offers an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to disconnect from modern life.
Set against the backdrop of a working farm and surrounded by vast expanses of forests and the Dry Fork River, this bed and breakfast provides a unique blend of agritourism, comfortable lodging, and immersive experiences that make it more than just a place to sleep—it’s a destination of discovery, relaxation, and digital detox.
The LRCB&B, originally built in 1905, was once the superintendent’s house for the Jenningston sawmill. The property and the town were founded by the Jennings brothers, who played a key role in the area’s lumber industry. After changing ownership in 1909 and flourishing briefly, the sawmill and town declined as the surrounding forests became depleted by 1921. With no work and the closure of the town’s only industry, Jenningston’s population moved onward. The superintendent’s house, once lived in by Bishop and Ella Jennings and now the LRCB&B, remains one of the few surviving structures from this once-thriving community.
The bed and breakfast boasts four beautifully appointed guest rooms—each with a unique charm—and offers a blend of rustic and cozy character with modern amenities.
Guests rave about the hospitality of the Waybright family, who ensure that each visitor feels like part of the family. You’re greeted with warmth from the moment you arrive, and host Marsha Waybright goes above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay and to assist in curating an ideal getaway based on the time of year and happenings around the farm. “Staying at the B&B is like staying with family. We enjoy it as much as they do,” she says.
A farm-fresh breakfast is served each morning, often featuring ingredients harvested directly from the farm. The property’s farm-to-table ethos is a highlight, with lunches and dinners available on request, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rural lifestyle.
For those who want to experience falling asleep under a sky full of stars, the stargazing dome is an alternative lodging option. Located beside the gentle Dry Fork River, the dome offers a magical experience. The property’s seclusion means no light pollution, making it ideal for finding constellations or chasing comets on clear nights.
If you prefer the water, the river offers a serene place to wade, fish, or simply sit and enjoy the peace of the surroundings.
More Than a Bed and Breakfast
What sets LRCB&B apart is its integration with the surrounding farmland, where guests can experience the workings of a sustainable farm. Whether helping to milk the cows, learning how to make herbal salves and tinctures, assisting in canning the season’s bounty, or simply wandering the beautiful landscape, the connection to nature and the farm’s rhythms makes this stay truly special.
Visitors can also explore the farm’s livestock, including chickens, goats, sheep, and rabbits, as well as learn about birds of prey under the supervision of Waybright’s son, Collin, a master falconer. The falconry experience, where guests can witness demonstrations of birds of prey in action, is a favorite—a rare and exciting opportunity that adds to the uniqueness of the stay.
One of the standout features of LRCB&B is its partnership with the West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, offering guests opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences. From workshops on sustainable farming to courses on traditional crafts like fiber art and spinning wool, there’s always something to learn and take home as a meaningful memory from your stay.
Beyond the charm of the B&B, Jenningston and the surrounding area offer plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. With the Allegheny Mountains as a backdrop and nearby attractions such as Blackwater Falls State Park, Seneca Rocks, Spruce Knob, and Canaan Valley Resort State Park, this region is a playground for hikers, kayakers, and adventurers alike.
Guests from more than 58 countries and 48 of the United States have visited the bed and breakfast for its farm-to-table meals, breathtaking surroundings, educational experiences, and warm, familial hospitality. For those seeking a blend of rustic charm, modern comfort, and immersive experiences, Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and be rejuvenated.
417 Jenningston Farm Road, Bowden, lrcbnb.com, @lcbnb on FB
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S WINTER 2024 ISSUE
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