Craig County, Virginia
Craig County sits deep in the Appalachian Mountains of western Virginia. It’s one of those places with a small population and plenty of open space. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for with natural beauty.
The Jefferson National Forest covers a large part of the county, making it a favorite for hikers, campers, and fishermen. Life here moves at a slow, peaceful pace, with plenty of quiet corners to enjoy.
New Castle, the county’s only town, is small but welcoming. Neighbors know each other, and farming remains an important part of local life. Cattle can be seen grazing across the hills, while hunters arrive in large numbers when fall rolls around. Craig County may not be flashy, but it has plenty of character and heart.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Craig County |
| County Seat | New Castle |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | New Castle, Paint Bank, Simmonsville |
| Interstates and Highways | VA-42, VA-311, VA-615 |
| Etymology | Named after Robert Craig, a Virginia congressman |
| FIPS Code | 51-045 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 330 sq mi (Land: 330 sq mi; Water: 0.2 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.5014° N, 80.1105° W |
| Major Landmarks | Jefferson National Forest, Barbours Creek Wilderness, Fenwick Mines Recreation Area |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Alleghany County (North), Botetourt County (East), Roanoke County (Southeast), Montgomery County (South), Giles County (Southwest), Monroe County, West Virginia (West) |
| Population | Approximately 5,000 |