Bedford County, Virginia
The Blue Ridge Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to Bedford County in central Virginia. The county is home to Smith Mountain Lake, known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains,” attracting visitors for hiking, boating, and fishing.
Bedford County has a strong connection to D-Day. The National D-Day Memorial in Bedford honors the soldiers who served. Bedford, the county seat, also retains its rich agricultural heritage.
The county blends peaceful rural landscapes with growing communities. Apple orchards dot the countryside, while the Peaks of Otter offer scenic mountain views and popular hiking trails. It’s a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Bedford County |
| County Seat | Bedford |
| Population | Approximately 82,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Bedford, Forest, Big Island, Goode, Moneta, Montvale |
| Interstates and Highways | US-221, US-460, VA-43, VA-122 |
| FIPS Code | 51-019 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 769 sq mi (Land: 754 sq mi; Water: 15 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Rockbridge County (North), Amherst County (Northeast), Lynchburg City (East), Campbell County (Southeast), Pittsylvania County (South), Franklin County (Southwest), Roanoke County (West), Botetourt County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.3213° N, 79.5240° W |
| Etymology | Named after John Russell, the 4th Duke of Bedford |
| Major Landmarks | Smith Mountain Lake, National D-Day Memorial, Peaks of Otter, Poplar Forest |