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Jefferson County, West Virginia

by ShanaCorbin

Jefferson County, West Virginia is where “almost heaven” begins. There are quaint towns steeped with history surrounded by stunning views of a landscape filled with recreational opportunities. In the state’s eastern panhandle, just an hour west of Washington, DC, this heavenly destination is a welcoming world away, filled with special places, plenty of stories and a wealth of activities to enjoy.

An area steeped in history, there are many significant sites to explore, sure to thrill not just history buffs, but anyone piqued by the stories of America’s coming of age. This is home to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, famous for John Brown’s historic incursion in his war to end slavery. The county’s location at the gateway into the Shenandoah Valley made it a target of both the North and South during the Civil War. Lewis and Clark began their famous expedition here. There are deep ties to Washington’s family, as well.

There are contemporary places to enjoy, too. The towns of Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, Bolivar, Ranson and Charles Town celebrate the past while providing a welcoming environment for visitors to enjoy local dining and shopping. Independent shops and chef-driven restaurants line the streets and welcome signs invite visitors to stop and enjoy the local flavor.

This is also the center of the famed Appalachian Trail, which is joined by miles of additional hiking and biking trails to explore. The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet here and offer outstanding opportunities for fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and tubing.

From Civil War history to horse racing history and from contemporary local hot spots to beloved national trails and treasures, the combination of things to see and do is amazing. Some even call it heavenly.

Combining a Jefferson County visit with time in neighboring Berkeley County is an excellent opportunity to enjoy more of West Virginia’s eastern panhandle and the special places and outstanding attractions the region has to offer.

Fast Facts

  • Jefferson County is comprised of 5 unique and authentic towns – Bolivar, Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, Ranson, Shepherdstown.
  • The Eastern Panhandle (Jefferson, Berkeley, Morgan counties) accounts for more visitor spend annually than any other county in WV with over $1.2 billion annually.
  • Jefferson County accounts for more visitor spend annually than any other county in WV with over $876 million annually.
  • Jefferson County is home to one of the two national parks in WV – Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
  • Shepherdstown is the oldest town in WV and home to Shepherd University.
  • The Bavarian Inn & Brewing Company in Shepherdstown is a European inspired boutique resort that has been in operation for almost 50 years.
  • John Brown altered America’s destiny when he targeted Jefferson County to launch his war to end slavery. The fiery abolitionist attacked the U.S. armory and arsenal at Harpers Ferry on October 16, 1859, in an attempt to obtain weapons for his gathering army. While the raid proved unsuccessful, Brown then captivated the nation during his subsequent trial at the Charles Town courthouse. The courthouse in Charles Town – still in use today – is where Brown was tried, convicted, and sentenced in one of the most famous trials in American history. 
  • During the Civil War, thousands of former enslaved persons sought refuge behind Union lines at Harpers Ferry. The Lockwood House in Harpers Ferry became the first schoolhouse in Jefferson County, and it then grew into Storer College – the first institution of higher learning in the state of West Virginia for African Americans, and one of the first in the former Confederacy.
  • Charles Town is named after its founder, Charles Washington, youngest brother of George. Charles built his home, known as Happy Retreat, here in 1780. 
  • Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races is home to live thoroughbred racing and all legal video and table games. It is also home to live entertainment featuring national acts and ESPN sports betting.
  • Jefferson County is just an hour from Washington DC, Baltimore, NVA markets and is the entry point to West Virginia.
  • The famous Appalachian Trail runs right through Harpers Ferry and is the sentimental halfway point on the trail. Headquarters are here.
  • Jefferson County is home to whitewater rafting and tubing (River Riders / Rivers & Trails) on the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. In the winter, snow tubing is available at Snow Riders.
  • Jefferson County is known for its authentic and sophisticated dining scene. Particularly in Shepherdstown and Charles Town.
  • Shepherd University hosts the Contemporary American Theater Festival as five new plays performed in one month (July) – plays so innovative, critics and fans nationwide are drawn to the festival.
  • The Great Bungee Company, a global leader in bungee jumping experiences, is thrilled to announce the opening of the first quarry-based bungee jumping site in the United States, located in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia in 2025.
  • Experience over 25 trails throughout the county with varying degrees of difficulty from a light stroll to a vigorous hike.
  • Farm to Table and Appalachian style cooking from start to finish with local farmers markets in every town, in local distilleries and breweries and featured in restaurants.

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