Events & Retreats

Spring on the Cowpasture | An Artist Retreat

May 2 – 4, 2021

The Cowpasture River Preservation Association and Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm invite artists of any medium to join us for this multi-day, plein air art event. Offering over 3,300 acres of open fields, mountains, forests, wildflowers, and birds, and featuring 3-miles of the scenic Cowpasture River, Fort Lewis is the perfect place to gather with fellow artists and create in a beautiful outdoor setting. Event is non-juried and open to the first 25 artists who register.

Fort Lewis is offering participating artists a special rate of $185/night for a single room and $230/night for a double room (breakfast and dinner included in rate). Must first be accepted into the retreat and then call to book at this rate.

Full event details & registration information can be found here.

UPDATE: Event sold out. Register today to join waitlist.

Bath County So Fly Fest

May 6-9, 2021

The annual Bath County So Fly Fest is back this May 6-9, 2021. Spring is prime fishing season so come out and enjoy a weekend of fly fishing, presentations, fly tying instruction, and more. Even the non-fisherman will find plenty to do from yoga classes to wine tasting… Stay with us and immerse yourself in all the beauty and fun of spring here in Bath County, VA.

So Fly Fest VIP Passes for sale here.

Event tickets on sale to public starting March 15. Full event schedule here.

Fort Lewis Fly Fishing Guide School

May 8, 2021

EVENT SOLD OUT. Contact to join waitlist.

As a part of the annual Bath County ‘So Fly Fest‘ happening May 6-9, Fort Lewis will be hosting a Fly Fishing Guide School on Saturday, May 8. Whether you are a curious first-timer or a seasoned fisherman, this event will provide one-on-one attention and tailored guidance, helping you hone your skills. Spring is prime fishing season and our river will be freshly stocked with trout, ready to bite.

Date: May 8, 2021
Time: 10 am – 4 pm
Guide School Cost: $120/person (lodging not included, standard room rates apply)
Package includes:

• One all-day fishing excursion and instruction with certified guide
• Farm fresh lunch
• At least 1 guide per every 4 guests, guaranteeing individual instruction

Safety Regulations: Event will take place outdoors and space is limited. For everyone’s health and safety, Fort Lewis requires that participants wear masks when in close proximity and respect social distancing guidelines.

*Participants must provide their own waders. Rods, flies, and other fishing gear available upon request.
*Must notify Fort Lewis regarding any dietary restrictions in advance 

Bath County Plein Air Art Festival

September 27 – October 3, 2021

Stay with us for the Eighth Annual Bath County Plein Air Festival, celebrating the tradition of outdoor painting. For seven days visitors will have the opportunity to observe thirty nationally acclaimed artists as they paint the landscapes and culture of Bath County. There will be events and artist demonstrations throughout the week and the festival will culminate with a Gala Celebration where you can shop the art and cast your vote for the best painting. Explore one of the most beautiful small towns in Virginia while interacting with some of the nation’s top plein air painters.

Event details & ticket information can be found here. Tickets go on sale June 1.