Visiting Love Valley, North Carolina
As a North Carolina resident and travel enthusiast, I’ve come across some pretty unique spots, but none quite like Love Valley.
Picture this: a small town where the Wild West meets Southern charm, and the only vehicles allowed are of the four-legged variety. That’s right—cars are left at the gate, and the only way to get around is by foot or horseback, wagon or your own two feet. Welcome to Love Valley, North Carolina’s very own cowboy town. The Wild West of North Carolina.
Love Valley isn’t just some gimmicky tourist spot—it’s a real, living town. Founded in 1954 by Andy Barker, a man with a big dream and an even bigger hat, Love Valley was designed to be an old Western town, complete with dusty streets, wooden saloons, and a church at its center.
What makes Love Valley so special is that it’s not just for show. People actually live here, embracing the cowboy way of life in a place where time seems to have stood still.
Walking through Love Valley feels like stepping onto the set of a classic Western. You half expect to see a tumbleweed roll by or hear the twang of a banjo in the distance.
The town is small, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. From the hitching posts outside the buildings to the wooden sidewalks that creak underfoot, every detail is straight out of the Wild West.
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Where Exactly Is Love Valley?
You might be wondering where you can find this hidden gem. Love Valley is located at 133 Henry Martin Trail, Statesville, NC 28625. It’s tucked away in the Brushy Mountains, making it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here’s how far it is from some major North Carolina cities:
60 miles from Charlotte
160 miles from Raleigh
116 miles from Asheville
289 miles from Wilmington
The drive to Love Valley is scenic, with rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Once you arrive, you’ll need to park your car in the free parking lot outside the town gates—no cars allowed in Love Valley! From there, it’s just a short walk into the heart of town.
Best Time to Visit Love Valley
When planning your visit to Love Valley, timing is everything. The town can be lively or quiet depending on the season and whether there are any events going on.
If you’re into photography or just want to soak up the atmosphere without a crowd, visiting during off-peak times is ideal. You’ll have the town almost entirely to yourself, which is perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy cowboy shots.
On the other hand, if you want to experience Love Valley in all its Wild West glory, plan your trip around one of their many events.
The town hosts everything from rodeos to music festivals, and the energy is infectious. To see what’s happening during your visit, I recommend checking out the Love Valley Facebook Group for up-to-date event information.
Events Worth Checking Out.
I’ve had the pleasure of attending a few events in Love Valley, and let me tell you, they’re unforgettable. Here are some you might catch:
Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser: The whole town turns pink for a day, including the horses and the tough, manly, cowboys! It’s a fun and heartwarming event that raises money for a great cause. Picture a sea of pink, with riders and horses decked out in all shades of the color, parading through town. It’s a sight you won’t forget.
Halloween Parade: This is one of my personal favorites. Imagine kids and adults in full costume, riding horses through the town. Whether you’re dressed as a cowboy, a ghost, or something else entirely, it’s a unique way to celebrate Halloween.
Rodeos & Barrel Racing: No cowboy town would be complete without a rodeo. Love Valley hosts thrilling rodeo nights where you can watch cowboys and cowgirls show off their skills. Barrel racing, in particular, is a crowd favorite. The speed and precision of these riders are something to behold.
Cowboy Christmas: Yes, you can celebrate Christmas, cowboy style! The town is decked out in festive lights, and there’s a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas card from the Old West.
Street Parties & Live Music: Shelby’s Place is the heart of Love Valley’s nightlife. This local hangout hosts live music, karaoke, and other events that keep the town buzzing. Whether you’re a fan of country music or just looking to have a good time, Shelby’s Place is where you want to be.
Cowgirl Triathlons: These events are as intense as they sound. Women compete in a series of challenges that test their strength, agility, and cowboy skills. It’s inspiring to watch and a great way to spend an afternoon.
Easter Egg Hunts, Memorial Day Celebrations, & Cattle Sorting Competitions: Love Valley offers a variety of activities.
These smaller events are perfect for families or anyone looking to experience the town’s unique charm in a more laid-back setting.
No matter when you visit, there’s usually something interesting happening in Love Valley. It’s a town that loves to celebrate, and the community spirit is palpable.
Things to Remember When Visiting Love Valley
Now, before you saddle up and head to Love Valley, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, this is a real town with real people living their lives. It’s not a theme park, and it’s certainly not a tourist trap.
The folks here aren’t putting on a show for visitors—they’re just living their cowboy lifestyle. So, be respectful of the town and its residents.
The economy has been tough on Love Valley, and you might notice some boarded-up shops or broken sidewalks. But don’t let that deter you. Instead, see it as an opportunity to support the local community.
Spend your money in the restaurants and shops that are open, and you’ll be helping to keep this unique town alive.
If you visit on a quieter day when there aren’t any events, you might find that some of the restaurants and shops are closed. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Bring a picnic lunch or have a meal before or after your visit.
But honestly, there’s something special about experiencing the town in its quiet moments. It gives you a chance to really appreciate the beauty and simplicity of Love Valley.
Where to Stay in Love Valley
Love Valley may be small, but it does offer a few places to stay if you want to make a weekend out of it. Miss Kitty’s B&B is a charming bed and breakfast that offers cozy accommodations with a rustic touch. It’s the perfect place to rest after a day of exploring the town.
If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, Love Valley Campground is a great option. The campground is close to the town, and you’ll wake up to the sounds of nature and the occasional whinny of a horse. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the cowboy lifestyle.
If these options don’t suit your fancy or are fully booked, nearby towns like Statesville (16 miles away), Wilkesboro (23 miles away), and Mooresville (35 miles away) offer more traditional lodging options. Staying nearby gives you the chance to fully experience Love Valley while also exploring the surrounding areas.
Why You Should Visit Love Valley
So, why should you add Love Valley to your North Carolina travel itinerary? Because it’s unlike anything else you’ll find in the state. Whether you’re a cowboy at heart, a history buff, or just someone looking for a unique getaway, Love Valley is a unique diamond in the rough.
For photographers, the town is a dream come true. The rustic buildings, dirt streets, and cowboy culture make for some truly amazing photos. And for families, it’s a chance to step back in time and experience a slice of the Wild West without ever leaving North Carolina.
But more than anything, Love Valley is a reminder of a simpler time. It’s a place where community matters, where the pace of life is slower, and where the spirit of the Old West is alive and well. Whether you’re attending an event, exploring the town, or just taking in the scenery, you’re sure to leave Love Valley with a story to tell.
