Cities and Towns in Nelson County, Virginia

Founded in 1808, Nelson County is one of 95 counties in the state of Virginia. Historically, Nelson County was formed from Amherst County. The city of Lovingston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 125, Nelson County has a population of 14,790 and area of 472 square miles (1,222 km²).

List of all cities in Nelson County, VA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Afton, VA	22920	540
Arrington, VA	22922	434
Faber, VA	22938	434
Gladstone, VA	24553	434
Lovingston, VA	22949	434
Lowesville, VA	22967	434
Massies Mill, VA	22967	434
Montebello, VA	24464	540
Nellysford, VA	22958	434
Norwood, VA	24581	434
Piney River, VA	22964	434
Rockfish, VA	22971	434
Roseland, VA	22967	434
	22976	434
Schuyler, VA	22969	434
Shipman, VA	22971	434
Tye River, VA	22922	434
Tyro, VA	22976	434
Wintergreen, VA	22958	434
Wintergreen Resort, VA	22967	434

Major Cities and Towns in Nelson County, Virginia

Lovingston

• Area: Approximately 5.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 520
• Zip Codes: 22949
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7590° N, 78.8761° W

Location and History

Lovingston is the county seat of Nelson County, centrally located along U.S. Route 29. Founded in 1807, it was named after James Loving, a local landowner who donated land for the county courthouse. The town developed as a hub for commerce and governance in the predominantly rural county. Lovingston’s historic district features well-preserved architecture from the 19th century, reflecting its heritage as a small but significant community. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Lovingston offers a picturesque setting that embodies the charm of central Virginia.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lovingston is served by Nelson County Public Schools, including Tye River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Nelson County Courthouse, an architectural centerpiece built in 1809, and the Lovingston Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby attractions include the Lovingston Winery, contributing to the region’s growing reputation for viticulture, and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking and sightseeing.

Nellysford

• Area: Approximately 5.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,076
• Zip Codes: 22958
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.8882° N, 78.8731° W

Location and History

Nellysford is an unincorporated community nestled in the Rockfish Valley of Nelson County, along State Route 151. Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it was historically an agricultural area with farms and orchards. In recent decades, Nellysford has become a gateway to outdoor recreation, benefiting from its proximity to the Wintergreen Resort and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The community blends rural charm with growing tourism, attracting visitors seeking natural beauty, leisure activities, and local craft beverages.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Education in Nellysford is provided by Nelson County Public Schools, with students attending Rockfish River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Wintergreen Resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, golfing, and year-round recreational activities. The Rockfish Valley Foundation Natural History Center promotes environmental education and conservation. Nellysford is also part of the Nelson 151 Trail, featuring wineries, breweries, and cideries that showcase the region’s craft beverage industry.

Afton

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Data not specifically available
• Zip Codes: 22920
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.0004° N, 78.8403° W

Location and History

Afton is situated at the northern edge of Nelson County, near the border with Albemarle and Augusta counties. Located along U.S. Route 250 and close to Interstate 64, Afton is known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park. Historically linked to agriculture, the community has become a popular destination for tourists exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains. Afton is also recognized for Afton Mountain and as the eastern portal of Rockfish Gap.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Residents attend Nelson County Public Schools, including Rockfish River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Blue Mountain Brewery, a pioneer in Virginia’s craft beer scene, and the Veritas Vineyard and Winery, offering wine tastings and events. The Swannanoa Palace, a historic Italian Renaissance Revival villa on Afton Mountain, is a notable landmark. The community’s proximity to hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and outdoor recreation areas makes it a hub for nature enthusiasts.

Schuyler

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Approximately 300
• Zip Codes: 22969
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7921° N, 78.7008° W

Location and History

Schuyler is a small community located in the eastern part of Nelson County along the Rockfish River. Established in the late 19th century as a soapstone quarry town, Schuyler thrived due to the abundance of soapstone deposits mined and processed locally. The community is famously known as the childhood home of author Earl Hamner Jr., creator of “The Waltons,” a television series inspired by his experiences growing up in Schuyler during the Great Depression.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Education for Schuyler residents is provided by Nelson County Public Schools, with students attending Tye River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include The Waltons Mountain Museum, housed in the former Schuyler High School, celebrating the life and work of Earl Hamner Jr. and the legacy of “The Waltons.” The Schuyler Historic District reflects the community’s history in soapstone mining with historic buildings and sites. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Rockfish River.

Arrington

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Data not specifically available
• Zip Codes: 22922
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7185° N, 78.9033° W

Location and History

Arrington is located in central Nelson County along U.S. Route 29. Historically an agricultural area with farming and orchards, Arrington serves as a rural crossroads within the county. The community is characterized by rolling hills, open spaces, and a tranquil rural atmosphere. Its central location provides easy access to nearby towns and attractions, contributing to its role as a quiet yet connected community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Residents attend Nelson County Public Schools, including Tye River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Oak Ridge Estate, a historic property that hosts events such as the Lockn’ Music Festival, attracting visitors nationwide. The estate features historic architecture and expansive grounds. Nearby wineries and natural settings offer additional opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciation of the rural landscape.

Shipman

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Data not specifically available
• Zip Codes: 22971
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7426° N, 78.8033° W

Location and History

Shipman is situated along State Route 56, east of Lovingston. The community developed as a small rural settlement with a history tied to agriculture and the railroad, which facilitated transportation and trade. Shipman maintains a quiet, rural character, surrounded by farms, forests, and the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is part of the network of small towns that contribute to Nelson County’s rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Education for Shipman residents is provided by Nelson County Public Schools, with students attending Tye River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Shipman Historic District, featuring buildings that reflect rural Virginia’s architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Davis Creek area offers natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking and fishing. Local farms and orchards contribute to the community’s agricultural heritage.

Roseland

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Data not specifically available
• Zip Codes: 22967
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7818° N, 78.9975° W

Location and History

Roseland is located along State Route 151 and has historically been an agricultural area with orchards and farms. In recent years, it has become part of the Nelson 151 Trail, which includes wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries, contributing to the county’s growing craft beverage industry. Roseland offers a blend of rural living and tourism, attracting visitors interested in local products and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Residents attend Nelson County Public Schools, including Rockfish River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Devils Backbone Brewing Company, a popular destination offering craft beers, dining, and events in a scenic setting. The Bold Rock Hard Cider cidery is also nearby, providing tastings and tours. The community’s proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking trails enhances its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.

Wintergreen

• Area: Approximately 16.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 165
• Zip Codes: 22958
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.9118° N, 78.9433° W

Location and History

Wintergreen is a census-designated place and resort community located in the mountainous region of Nelson County. Established in the 1970s, it centers around the Wintergreen Resort, a four-season destination offering skiing, snowboarding, golfing, and other recreational activities. The community attracts visitors and residents seeking mountain living and outdoor adventures. Wintergreen’s elevation and location provide cooler temperatures and scenic vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Education for Wintergreen residents is provided by Nelson County Public Schools, with students attending Rockfish River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. The primary landmark is the Wintergreen Resort, featuring amenities such as ski slopes, golf courses, hiking trails, and spa facilities. The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen promotes environmental education and conservation, offering programs and guided hikes. The community’s integration with the natural environment makes it a unique destination in Nelson County.

Massies Mill

• Area: Unincorporated community (specific area not defined)
• Population: Data not specifically available
• Zip Codes: 22954
• Latitude and Longitude: 37.7635° N, 79.0064° W

Location and History

Massies Mill is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along State Route 56. Historically centered around milling operations using the waters of the Tye River, the community faced significant destruction during Hurricane Camille in 1969, which caused devastating floods. Massies Mill rebuilt and continues to embody the resilience and close-knit nature of rural Virginia towns.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Residents attend schools in the Nelson County Public Schools system, including Tye River Elementary School, Nelson Middle School, and Nelson County High School. Major landmarks include the Tye River, offering fishing, kayaking, and scenic beauty. Nearby Crabtree Falls, one of the tallest sets of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, is a popular hiking destination. The area’s natural features and historical significance contribute to its character and appeal.