Amherst County, Virginia
Amherst County sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia, offering a beautiful mix of rolling farmland, forests, and mountain scenery. The James River forms much of its southern border, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Sweet Briar College brings a strong academic presence to the area, while local apple orchards become especially popular during the fall. Fresh apple cider and scenic autumn views make this a favorite time to visit. Hikers also come to the county to explore nearby sections of the Appalachian Trail.
The town of Amherst serves as the county seat and features a charming main street with a relaxed small-town atmosphere. With its combination of farmland, forests, rivers, and mountain landscapes, Amherst County offers a peaceful escape where visitors can slow down and reconnect with nature.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Amherst County |
| County Seat | Amherst |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Amherst, Madison Heights, Clifford, Monroe, Sweet Briar |
| Interstates and Highways | US-29, US-60, VA-130, VA-151 |
| Etymology | Named after Jeffrey Amherst |
| FIPS Code | 51-009 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 479 sq mi (Land: 474 sq mi; Water: 5 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.5854° N, 79.0512° W |
| Major Landmarks | Sweet Briar College, Blue Ridge Parkway, Amherst County Museum and Historical Society |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Rockbridge County (Northwest), Nelson County (Northeast), Appomattox County (Southeast), Campbell County (South), Lynchburg City (South), Bedford County (Southwest) |
| Population | Approximately 31,000 |