West Virginia Explorer

Hardy County, West Virginia

Old Fields, in Hardy County, was so named for old fields found by settlers of European descent who entered the valley of the South Branch of the Potomac.

Old Fields was named for fields found by settlers in the valley of the South Branch of the Potomac. (Photo courtesy Mark Wilt).


Hardy County, in eastern West Virginia (WV), was created in 1786 and named for Virginia statesman Samuel Hardy. Its county seat is at Moorefield. Hardy County is renowned for its scenic beauty and productive farmland, much of which is situated within the broad valley of the South Branch of the Potomac River.

The valley is a center of fruit and poultry production. The Lost River, which sinks beneath a ridge and reemerges as the Cacapon River, is among its natural wonders. A significant portion of the eastern county is located within a national forest. As of the 2010 census, the population of Hardy County was 14,025.

Hardy County Court House, Moorefield, WV, Potomac Branches Region

Hardy County Courthouse

Cities & Towns in Hardy County

Baker, West Virginia
Fisher, West Virginia
Lost City, West Virginia
Lost River, West Virginia
Mathias, West Virginia
Milam, West Virginia
Moorefield, West Virginia
Old Fields, West Virginia
Wardensville, West Virginia

Parks & Public Recreation Facilities

Lost River State Park
Nathaniel Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Short Mountain Wildlife Management Area
South Branch Wildlife Management Area
Wardensville Wildlife Management Area
Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Hardy County Historic Landmarks

Light Horse Harry Lee Cabin (Mathias, WV)
Lost River General Store (Lost River, WV)

Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area

The county is part of the Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area, a forested region spanning over 500 square miles in central Appalachia, where tourism and forestry are key industries.

Regional Information for Hardy County, West Virginia

For further information on lodging, dining, and recreation in Hardy County, please refer to our guide to travel in the Potomac Branches Region of eastern West Virginia, where Hardy County is located.


Old Fields, in Hardy County, was so named for old fields found by settlers of European descent who entered the valley of the South Branch of the Potomac.

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