Homesteaders of Warren County Propose “Farmstand Hub” as New County Park to Support Local Agriculture

A new effort to reconnect the community with its agricultural roots is taking shape in Warren County, thanks to a proposal by the Homesteaders of Warren County for a unique and collaborative project: the Farm Stand Hub. This innovative market space is designed to support local farmers, homesteaders, and makers by offering a centralized location for selling goods—without the need to staff individual booths.

What makes this project especially notable is that the Farm Stand Hub is set to become a county park managed and maintained by Warren County Parks and Recreation.

Amber Martin and Sarah Kerns, co-leaders of the Homesteaders of Warren County, introduced the idea to the Board of Supervisors earlier this spring. The proposed location is the McKay Springs property, one of the few remaining undeveloped commercial parcels in the county. The vision is to create a rustic yet functional park where producers can stock shared, unmanned stands with everything from fresh eggs and herbs to handmade goods and natural remedies—offering the public a charming, convenient, and family-friendly way to shop local.

Farm Stand Hub concepts.

“This is a community-first idea,” said Kerns. “And while it’s being led by homesteaders, the Farm Stand Hub will be fully operated by Warren County as a public park. That means this isn’t just our project—it’s something that will belong to the people of Warren County.”

The Homesteaders, a recently formed grassroots group, say the project is inspired by a desire to preserve the area’s rural heritage and create opportunities for families and small-scale producers to share what they grow and make. The idea was also influenced by the success of similar homesteading and local farm initiatives in neighboring counties and the growing popularity of the annual Homesteaders of America conference held in Front Royal.

Martin, who raises livestock and sells eggs, and Kerns, who runs a local hemp and herb farm, both recognize how difficult it can be for small producers—especially those with young families or full-time jobs—to attend weekly farmers markets or staff booths at events. The Farm Stand Hub offers an alternative: a safe, self-serve shopping area open six days a week (closed Sundays) and aligned with county park hours.

“Farmers and makers can drop off their goods, stock their stand, and not worry about being there all day,” said Martin. “And shoppers can enjoy a slower, more personal experience that’s different from the grocery store.”

Because Warren County Parks and Recreation will operate the hub as a public park, it also opens the door to future community programming—like gardening classes, canning demonstrations, or educational farm visits—designed to promote sustainability and self-reliance.

“This is about more than buying and selling,” added Kerns. “It’s about teaching kids where their food comes from, giving neighbors a way to support each other, and preserving the agricultural spirit that’s always been part of Warren County’s identity.”

The group reports strong interest from local producers, volunteers, and residents eager to see the hub take shape. While there’s still planning and coordination ahead, the project has gained traction quickly, and the partnership with Parks and Rec ensures it will be rooted in the community for the long term.

“This isn’t our private enterprise—it’s a park,” said Martin. “We just helped plant the seed. The county is stepping in to grow it.”

For updates and ways to get involved, residents can join the group on Facebook at Homesteaders of Warren County.