Mountain forest hideaway with cute farm animals - close to New River Gorge

Introduction

Howdy! My name is Kevin. I keep up my family's place here in Wolf Creek, where I live and where family comes to stay. I love the outdoors and our mountains. I work as an educator, running a non-profit summer camp for regional youth and other community programs throughout the year. I also have a very small, young chocolate business! Having a pet and housesitter allows me to visit and support family during down periods in my work - at least while I am the only one living here on the farm. This is a special place for my family and we would love other folks to be able to enjoy it, too.

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Home & location

* Listing dates can be flexible * Our home backs up on hundreds of acres of mountain forest that you can access. Our family home is a spacious, split-level ranch-style home with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open kitchen/bathroom, carpeted den with patio access, living room and laundry room. Very open plan with a beautiful view of the front field along Wolf Creek and only 5 miles from the Greenbrier River. We have a bunch of puzzles and games available, and there is Wifi. Our 15 acre field is lit up with lightning bugs on summer nights and pollinators of all stripes by day. Our property begins after a low-water crossing. We also have the hillside tract above the house (contiguous with house) where a small seasonal cabin is located, which is where our animals live. There are trails leading to two ponds (canoe available), around an old orchard and into the surrounding mountain forest with great views. We are located 5 miles from the town of Alderson off state Rte 3 in the beautiful Wolf Creek valley. We are 20 miles from the charming tourist town of Lewisburg, 15 miles from Union, and about 45 minutes to an hour from New River Gorge National Park and the national forest, among other sights. Our water is from a cave spring and we are on a septic system.

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Responsibilities

I have a friendly and easy outdoor dog, a cautious/friendly outdoor cat, and a small herd of 8 goats that have plenty of pasture to browse at this time of year. There are also a couple potted trees on the porch that could do with occasional water. The dog needs fresh food and water once a day, and at least one good walk a day. He has a yard that allows him plenty of space to run, as well as shelter from the elements. The cat needs food put out in the morning and evening, and fresh water. She might want some loving, but she also may be shy and keep to herself! She also has shelter if/when she wants it. The goats love attention, but only need it once a day - some grain, and a refresh of their water. All food/feed containers (except for the dog's) stay contained in a latching bin at all times to discourage scavenging animals. (This has not been a problem in 8+ years.) The animals are up the driveway (interesting 5-10 minute walk through the trees) from the house on our same property - accessible by car or on foot.

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Meet the pets

Photo of Kermit

Kermit

10 years

Photo of Karla

Karla

10 years

Photo of None

Sitter Reviews (3)

Homeowner Reviews (0)

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This was the perfect retreat away from the city. Not far from Lewisburg and New River Gorge National Park and other touristy stuff in WV. There was a lot to explore at the homestead itself, fields, ponds, and trails up the mountain. Felt like I was living in the pages of East of Eden or something. Aside from the pets and goats, there was a lot of wildlife to see on the property, deer, rabbits, owls, and lightning bugs at night. Kevin gave a walkthrough of the chores which were all very straightforward. He also had a printed out housesitting guide with responsibilities and even touristy stuff to do and check out around the area. He was quick to respond over text whenever I had any questions, even ones not really related to housesitting. Overall a very peaceful experience, I felt rejuvenated after staying here. Would love to come back.

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Stayed: 06 Jun 2024 - 14 Jun 2024
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What a peaceful experience I had at Kevin’s place in Wolf Creek! What a beautiful spot in the world; I felt torn in leaving to head back to the city. Exploring the town of Alderson and the cultural center that is Lewisburg (voted coolest small town in America!!) nearby was exciting too. I felt safe and comfortable as a single woman doing this sit, as well as navigating the farm and surrounding area. Instructions for routine animal chores were well-written and easy to follow. Gosh, I hope I can get back there for a future sit.

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Stayed: 01 Mar 2024 - 02 Mar 2024
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Kevin owns a small farm near the Greenbrier River in West Virginia. My experience was blue bird days caring for the animals, reading, writing and playing a bit of guitar. After a long summer rehabbing from knee surgery, it was the perfect remedy. Thank you for allowing me to share your mountain experience.

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Stayed: 10 Sep 2023 - 16 Sep 2023

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Kevin
Last time sitter needed: 8 months 26 days ago