Breath of Dawn is a working homestead in the mountains of Southwest Virginia, offering farmstays, open-air gatherings, and hands-on learning experiences rooted in nature-based living.
Our property includes:
• Farmstays and cabin rentals
• Seasonal classes, tours, and private gatherings
• Sustainable land practices
• Compassionate animal care
• Outdoor education experiences
We believe that time outdoors, meaningful work, and quiet mountain spaces create connection and resilience. Everything we host and steward reflects that belief.
Mission Statement
At Breath of Dawn, we cultivate connection, healing, and resilience through nature-based living. Nestled in the mountains of Southwest Virginia, our homestead grows thriving gardens, nurtures the land, and invites others to learn alongside us. Through sustainable practices, outdoor education, and compassionate animal care, we offer a space where people reconnect with the rhythms of nature and find purpose through mindful, hands-on experiences.
“Jessica is a wonderful host and always offering to help if needed. Her place is a gem. I agree with a previous guest whose response is on here….”just book it.”
— Colleen, Middleton, Wisconsin
Our Commitment
Our work is guided by stewardship, responsibility, and long-term care for what has been entrusted to us.
We are committed to:
• Practicing no-dig and permaculture-based gardening that builds soil health and protects shared natural resources
• Using water, land, and materials thoughtfully and without waste
• Caring for animals with rescue-informed, compassionate standards
• Teaching practical skills that empower others to steward their own land responsibly
• Growing intentionally — at a pace that honors both the property and the people who gather here
Breath of Dawn is built on consistency, not shortcuts — cultivating systems that are regenerative, not extractive.
Explore Our Opportunities
Breath of Dawn grows through shared effort, responsible stewardship, and meaningful participation.
If our approach resonates with you, explore the ways you can engage:
• Hiring Opportunities – Contract and seasonal roles supporting cabin turnovers, property maintenance, and internships.
• WWOOF Stays – Hands-on learning experiences for those interested in nature-based living and working alongside the land.
• Farmstays – Rest, reset, and experience the mountain through intentional cabin stays.
• Events – Join us for classes, tours, and open-air gatherings rooted in practical skill and connection.
Reviews
Cabin Guest – Terese, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
“This host provides stellar communication and the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen. The experience made me stop and think about our earth in a different light. The cabin and bathroom were so immaculate it did not feel like camping at all except that it was! Is it made of cedar? How did it smell so fresh all the time? Wonderful. The shared space for cooking and relaxing also added a layer of adventure. I loved this experience immensely. Thank you for your hospitality :)”
Grassland Camping – Hailey
“My family and I stayed at Jessica’s grassland tent campsite and we had such a great time! The views were beautiful, her farm fresh eggs were delicious, and she was a wonderful host. Bonus: the out house that was available to us was extremely clean and there were lots of great hikes around the area.
I would definitely recommend this site if you’re looking for a spacious, peaceful place in the mountains to set up camp.”
Catherine, Warm Springs, Virginia
“Just book it. Don’t second guess, just book. You won’t regret your decision for one minute. This was the most beautiful spot. Peaceful and relaxing down to each and every detail to keep things simple yet memorable. Waking up with the side wall open is something you can’t find just anywhere. We fell asleep to the crickets, an owl, and the rain hitting the roof of the open side wall. A couple roosters on the farm and nearby were our morning alarm at 5:30(ish) so keep things closed up if you’re not a morning person. We were up and moving to hit the trails close by, but if you’re staying on the property there are some trails on the farm. Plan ahead and bring food to cook in the pavilion space. The host provides a lot of your basics, but ask questions if you’re unsure. She is very quick to respond and will help you be prepared! Very comfortable bedding/pillows for a good night’s sleep. We will be back!”
Wwoofer – Pratima, Georgia
“Jessica is a dynamo and is ever active in trying to make improvements on her property. She’s very warm and engaging and is more than happy to share her experiences in all aspects of how she developed (and continues to do so) her educational homestead with farmstay opportunities. She’s a very compassionate individual and her efforts in animal rescue are amazing. With a strong entrepreneurial background and passionate love of the outdoors, she’s a great role model for anyone who is interested in using eco-friendly principles to found a site of their own, however large or small. She’s very lively and personable and is very attentive to the needs of all who are around her. All of this, combined with the great accommodations and food and the breathtaking surroundings motivate me to rate her extremely highly as a WWOOF host and human being. I truly look forward to making it out again in the not too distant future.”
Cabin Guest – Morgan, Baltimore, Maryland
“Wonderful stay! Super quiet, beautiful drive in. Most restful nights of sleep I’ve ever had! Jessica has AC/heating units so it’s the perfect temperature regardless of the season! Sitting out on the porch in the morning reading with a view or enjoying the stars at night is a thousand percent worthwhile at Breath of Dawn! Thank you Jessica! Hope to visit again soon.”
Breath of Dawn 