Hidden in Virginia’s least populated county you will find a sweet surprise – Maple Syrup! This is “Virginia’s Sweet Spot” known for its maple trees which produce syrup.
The generational farms in this area have been producing maple syrup for around 200 years. Maple syrup camps have been welcoming visitors since 1959.
The annual Maple Syrup festival draws tens of thousands of people each Spring.
Highland County, tucked into a rural western corner of the state adjacent to the West Virginia state line, calls itself “Virginia’s Little Switzerland” and it’s not hard to see why! The unspoiled, rural landscape is a serene getaway.
Here’s how to enjoy the maple syrup season in Virginia:
- The Highland Maple Festival is a celebration of maple syrup and everything that can be made with it. In 2026, there will be 10 sugar camps to explore and learn about this vanishing method of making the syrup everyone loves on their pancakes. This small-town festival is held on the second and third weekends of March every year. In addition to eating lots of delicious foods (including pancakes and doughnuts), there is also music and arts and crafts.
- You will find plenty of maple-infused foods at Southernmost Maple Products south of Monterey. This rustic country store also serves up delicious food (but check the available days ahead of time!).
- Another great country store is the 185-year old Sugar Tree Country Store with plenty of maple products to buy, plus antique maple-producing tools on display.
- Mill Gap Farms sells maple syrup products, plus they have a cottage on their farm where you can sty.
Southernmost Maple Products and Sugar Tree Country Store are open year round. Stop in to buy products, see antique maple-producing equipment, and enjoy some great food!
Sugar Camps in Virginia
You may not be able to visit Highland County, Virginia in March, but don’t let that keep you from enjoying the area’s sweet history!
While sugar camps are only open for touring during the festival, these family-owned businesses often have product to sell year round. Be sure to check out their websites to support the small farms:
After you have enjoyed Highland County, be sure to see these beautiful small towns in Virginia, too.