Fishing can be relaxing, rewarding, thrilling, or extremely frustrating! But the addictive lure of this sport keeps anglers coming back time and time again. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and immerse yourself in nature, while even (perhaps!) putting some food on the table. With spring temperatures slowly rising and fish becoming more active, now’s a great time to start dreaming about that trophy catch . . . and planning out some fishing spots to hit this season.  With the Shenandoah River running right through town, Front Royal boasts loads of exciting fishing opportunities. Read on for our handy guide to fishing around Front Royal. You’ll find some local favorite fishing spots, as well as ideas for making the most out of fishing in Front Royal.
 

Front Royal’s Favorite Fishing Spots
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It’s not too hard to catch sight of the Shenandoah River in Front Royal, but finding an access point where fishing is allowed can be more of a challenge. A great place to start is Eastham Park, where the Boat Launch area provides public access to the river. Morgans Ford Boat Landing is another popular public access point. As the river flows by here, it’s shallow enough for wading, and the boat landing is a popular spot for local fishermen of all ages. 
 

It won’t put you on the banks of the Shenandoah River, but the Gertrude E. Miller Community Park in town is a fun pick for a family fishing trip. With a stocked stretch of Happy Creek running through the park, it’s often possible to get some bites, especially if you arrive not too long after the stocking truck! With playgrounds, the town swimming pool, picnic shelters, and more all close by, you can plan a fishing day at the park that everyone will love. 
 
If you drive a little bit out of town, you’ll find two more easy-to-access fishing spots on the Shenandoah River. Shenandoah River State Park is a wonderful place to fish. With 5.2 miles of river frontage at the park, you’ll find access from secluded trails, as well as from a large riverside picnic area.  Or head to Front Royal’s neighboring town of Strasburg and access the river from the Town Park there. You’ll find yet another boat landing and public riverside area where you can throw in your line. 
 

For lake fishing, explore nearby Lake Frederick, where you’ll find a stocked lake that’ll give you a good chance of reeling in some bass. 
 
If you’re looking for more of a fishing challenge, head to Shenandoah National Park or George Washington National Forest. Both of these famed outdoor destination have opportunities to enjoy the adventure of fishing for trout small mountain streams. They are especially sought after destinations for lovers of fly fishing. 
 

Shenandoah River Fishing Trips
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The Shenandoah River is a beloved smallmouth bass fishing destination, and you may want to do more than fish from the bank. If so, why not book a fishing trip with Front Royal Outdoors? You can spend a relaxing day enjoying the river, and have access to many more fish than you would from a shore fishing spot. 
 
Already own a boat? Use this map of Front Royal’s boat landings to plan your own fishing trip. Or if you have a boat but need a buddy to pick you up downriver, why not take advantage of Downriver Canoe Company’s shuttle service?

Spending a Fishing Weekend in Front Royal
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For enthusiastic fishermen looking to spend a full weekend on their favorite hobby, finding a place to stay near the river can be a dream come true. We have you covered there too. Check out Low Water Bridge Campgrounds for a fun campsite that’s right on the Shenandoah River. If you’re looking for a river trip, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and tubes here too. For RV campers, Twin Rivers RV Campground is another great option. Or head to Elizabeth Furnace Campground in George Washington National Forest, and enjoy family friendly fishing and camping on the banks of scenic Passage Creek. 

​Looking for something a little more comfortable than a campsite? Rolling River Holidays may have the lodging you’ve been dreaming about. This family-owned-and-operated vacation home company has several gorgeous homes in Virginia’s farmland available to choose from, and many of them include access to the riverfront. Book with Rolling River Holidays and enjoy a vacation on the Shenandoah River with your family or friends (and lots of time to fish included!).
 

Front Royal’s Licensing and Harvest Regulations
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There’s nothing that can spoil a fishing trip like getting a ticket (except maybe not getting any bites!). Don’t forget that if you plan on exploring one of Front Royal’s public fishing spots, you’ll need to make sure you’re carrying the appropriate fishing license for the State of Virginia. If you plan on bringing your catch home, also make sure you’re aware of the specific harvest regulations for the location where you’re fishing.
 

Front Royal awaits as the destination for your Shenandoah River fishing trip. With a wide choice of river access points, riverside lodging, and fun river trips awaiting, it’s a great starting point to plan an adventure in the famed smallmouth bass waters of the Shenandoah River.
 

Whether you’re planning a major event like a wedding, or looking for an intimate private getaway, Walnut Hill Farm and Estate might be just what you’re looking for. There’s lots of beautiful outdoor spaces, a large gazebo with an open stone fireplace, and plenty of room to add a tent. It all adds up to a fantastic location for a special events. Weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions and more, they’ve all happened here. You and your guests can roam through the meadows, relax by (or in!) the pond, or explore the wooded hiking trails. Don’t forget to go find the waterfall! Open up a bottle of wine and unwind around the fireplace or fire pit in the evening. Don’t forget to glance upwards; the stars here are unbelievable!
 

Don’t think you’ll be able to tear yourself away at the end of the day? Don’t worry! Small groups can stay overnight at Walnut Hill Farm and Estate. Book the historic John Pope Cabin for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for up to four people. The cabin, built just after the end of the Civil War, retains the historic charm of its log walls and all-wood interior, but is updated with all the modern amenities. A wood burning stove and large front porch swing add final touches to make you feel right at home.
 

With a quintessential farmland feel, historic buildings, and stunning vistas all around, this 500 acre piece of paradise is nothing short of magical. Read on to learn more about this special treasure, tucked away in the countryside of the Front Royal area.

There’s Plenty Going on All Around
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There’s so much to do at Walnut Hill Farm that some guests may feel no need to leave. But for those who do want to get out, there’s easy access to attractions, restaurants, shopping, and more in the town of Front Royal. An easy and scenic twenty minute drive will bring you into town, where you can explore to your heart’s content. Other options: head to Shenandoah National Park, or check out one of several fantastic local wineries. 

​Due to icy conditions on the surrounding roads, Walnut Hill typically closes to guests each year in mid-December, reopening annually in March. So if you’re intrigued, consider this your reminder to start planning your 2022 getaway, event, or retreat. Reservations are sure to fill up quickly at this special destination. Start planning today to make sure you don’t miss out on the magic!

Photography means opening a window to let others in on your perspective. It means artfully capturing a small part through a tiny lens, and revealing something about the whole. It can mean planning meticulously and waiting patiently for the perfect shot. Or it can mean seizing the moment at a second’s notice so you don’t let the perfect image slip away.

​This year, Discover Front Royal is in search of photographers who can work their magic in the Front Royal and Warren County area. Front Royal is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. But we want to see the Shenandoah Valley through the eyes of those who love it. Whether you’re a visitor to the Front Royal area, or a long time resident, we’ve love to see what YOU think makes this area so special. 

​Read on for more details about submitting entries to our photo contest. You can share what most captivates you about Front Royal, Warren County, and the Shenandoah Valley, and have a chance to win one of several great prizes!

​With a wide range of categories including seasonal photography, Front Royal’s Downtown, and even drone/aerial footage, you’ll find a chance to share your own unique angle on our area. 

​In the Front Royal area, photography can be coupled with loads of other fun activities. Think hiking, camping, canoeing (with a waterproof camera!), wine-tasting, and loads more. Don’t forget to have fun while you’re in search of those winning entries!

2. Submit your photo to the photo contest here. ​

​Be sure to fill out all the required information. Any questions, you can email us at photocontest@discoverfrontroyal.com.

​With the contest running for a full year (all the way to September 1, 2022), you have time to make sure that none of the “Best Views from the Valley” pass you by.
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Contest winners will hear directly from us at the end of the contest, as well as seeing their work featured on Discover Front Royal’s website and social media. They’ll also be receiving some great prizes!

If you love photography and the Front Royal/Shenandoah Valley area, this one’s for you! Have fun capturing a spectacular image of the valley, share what you love with countless others, and have a chance to win one of several fantastic prizes. It’s an exciting and fun-filled opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Let others DISCOVER Front Royal through your lens!

Have you been wondering where you can:

• Enjoy live performances from folk, Americana, and Irish musicians?
• Savor a full weekend of wholesome, family friendly fun?
• Camp under the stars at Skyline Ranch Resort in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley? 
• Experience the best of Front Royal’s local beers, wine, food, and crafts?

​Find it all at Appaloosa Music Festival, Front Royal Virginia, August 13-15! 

​COVID-19 restrictions are lifting, and musicians everywhere are ready to get back together with their fans! If you’re ready to enjoy music and fellowship again, it’s time to book your tickets for Appaloosa Music Festival 2021. A weekend at this extraordinary music festival will leave you with memories for a lifetime!

The Appaloosa Story: Bringing the Folk Music Crowd Home to Front Royal
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Appaloosa all started in 2014 with the D.C. area folk rock band, Scythian. They’d played for crowds around the world, but they were ready to spend less time touring, and more time close to home. Founding band members and brothers, Dan and Alex Fedoryka, realized that the solution lay in their own hometown: Front Royal, Virginia. With its proximity to Skyline Drive and the idyllic Shenandoah Valley, its supportive team of local artisans, and its genuine small-town atmosphere, Front Royal had incredible potential. It was the perfect setting for a folk, Americana, and Irish music festival that would bring in musicians and fans from all over the country. And so, Appaloosa Music Festival was born.
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Now in its seventh year, Appaloosa’s explosive growth has proved the Fedorykas right about the Front Royal community and the irresistible draw of their music-making. With annual line-ups featuring little known but soon-to-be famous musicians. Appaloosa has claimed its reputation as the festival where fans can enjoy intimate performances from excellent musicians. There’s so much fun to be had that the crowds have kept growing year after year!  

We also want to give a huge shout out to this year's line-up @YoungDubliners, @dustbowlrevival, @brooklynyarn, @AZTECSUNBAND, @BillandBelles Arbo @bendavidwarner, @AbigailDowd, His & Hers, The Moores, The Wilson Springs Hotel, Honeyday, Jesse Eastman, Low Water Bridge Band, Cake for Dinner.

Appaloosa and the Front Royal Community
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Appaloosa Music Festival is a genuine a grassroots effort, with local talent lending a hand from all around the Front Royal area. Whether it’s the music you’re hearing or the drink in your hand, it probably hails from not too far away! In addition to the local musicians in the lineup, Front Royal’s food vendors and beverage brewers pitch in to provide authentic local refreshment for fans. With local arts and crafts on sale too, it’s a full immersion experience into Front Royal talent. Even the main stage is locally sourced, lovingly crafted by Front Royal based Strong Oaks Woodshop with reclaimed wood from old Virginia barns.

​“Music among friends”
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Scythian’s motto is “Music among friends,” and that’s the kind of feel that audience members can enjoy at Appaloosa. It’s a friendly, wholesome, country atmosphere. The young adult crowd can have a few drinks and some fun, but the festival was also specifically designed with families in mind. There’s truly something for everyone here!
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The festival grounds include a FREE kids zone, with face painting, bouncy houses, games, and everything you need to get your whole family into the festival feel. There’s even a dedicated stage with special performances and workshops just for kids. And parents can enjoy fantastic family packages with free admission for all kids 12 and under and a dedicated family camping area.

​Appaloosa is such a good fit for families, that it’s becoming nationally recognized. The festival has been one of five festivals nominated for best family-friendly festival at the Festx awards in Las Vegas. Fellow nominees included the nationally known Austin City Limits and Jazz Fest New Orleans.

Appaloosa Accommodation
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Appaloosa Music Festival is three days long, and spending time outdoors in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley is part of its draw. If you want to get the complete experience, consider the camping options available right on site at Skyline Ranch Resort. You’ll be able to relax at your tent while listening to the music, spend more time with friends old and new, and fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. ​

With a variety of tent sites and RV hookups available, you can choose an option that suits your comfort level and your budget. And if you’re not up for camping, but don’t want to miss a second of the festival, don’t worry! A limited number of VIP packages include Skyline Ranch Resort’s comfortable chalet accommodations. 

If you don’t have a whole weekend to spare, no problem. You can purchase tickets by the day as well.
 

So buy your tickets now, and come on out for Appaloosa Music Festival this August 13-15. The COVID-19 lockdowns were particularly tough for musicians, and attending Appaloosa is one way to support folk music and local businesses while having a great time. Please share this post and let’s all work together to “Keep the Music Alive” because #​VirigniaisforMusicLovers!!