Washington County, Virginia
Washington County is located in the southwestern corner of Virginia along the Tennessee border, offering a mix of Appalachian history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. The Appalachian Trail passes through the area, attracting hikers and nature lovers from across the country.
The county offers impressive views of Mount Rogers, Virginia’s highest peak, located just east of the county. Abingdon, the county seat, is a charming community known for its historic character and thriving arts scene.
One of the area’s most famous attractions is the Barter Theatre, Virginia’s State Theatre, which opened during the Great Depression. In its early days, visitors could exchange food and goods for admission. Washington County also has a strong musical heritage, with the Carter Family’s legacy closely connected to the region.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Washington County |
| County Seat | Abingdon |
| Population | Approximately 55,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Abingdon, Glade Spring, Damascus, Meadowview, Emory |
| Interstates and Highways | I-81, US-11, US-58, VA-75 |
| FIPS Code | 51-191 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 566 sq mi (Land: 561 sq mi; Water: 5 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Smyth County (Northeast), Grayson County (Southeast), Johnson County, Tennessee (South), Sullivan County, Tennessee (Southwest), Bristol City (Southwest), Scott County (West), Russell County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 36.7674° N, 81.9535° W |
| Etymology | Named after George Washington, the first President of the United States |
| Major Landmarks | Barter Theatre, Virginia Creeper Trail, Abingdon Vineyards |