Bracketts Farm in Louisa County is nestled within the Green Springs National Historic Landmark District, a popular destination for driving tours to observe preserved 19th century structures and landscapes. Open daily to the public, Bracketts offers visitors a glimpse into the past, a look at present rural farm life, provides quiet fishing and hiking opportunities, and is a birdwatcher’s dream location.
In present day, Bracketts is a 515-acre working farm. Almost all of its fields are leased for cattle grazing. (Please note it is important to stay away from the cattle, but feel free to look!). The farm is home to educational sessions and events throughout the year.
Fishing
There is a 12-acre body of water called Nolting Pond near the main house in which generations of Louisans have fished and continue to do so. It is not stocked, but fishermen have recently caught respectable bass and crappies.
Hiking
Near Nolting Pond is the trailhead for a 1.6 mile loop Nature and Heritage Trail that runs along the east side of the pond, into some woods, across a field and comes onto the main driveway for a walk back up to the main house. There is a kiosk at the trailhead with a QR code to download a copy of the trail map. The trail is also listed in the AllTrails smartphone app.
Birding
Bracketts is a favorite spot for birdwatchers. It is included in the Department of Wildlife Resources’ Wildlife and Birding Trail program. Many of the bird watchers who visit Bracketts post their sightings on ebird. Bracketts also hosts the annual Audubon bird count each December.
How to get to Bracketts
Bracketts Farm is located in western Louisa County in the Green Springs National Historic Landmark District. The primary entrance is on Nolting Road (Roue 638) but, if you’re relying on GPS, the address that you should use is 1117 Bracketts Farm Road, Louisa, VA.
Hours
Bracketts is open to the public from 7:00am to 7:00pm every day, except that, when the daylight hours start to shorten, it is open from sunrise to sunset.