Blackcrest Retreat
Some places you visit. Blackcrest Retreat is one you plan your year around.
Modern. Moody. Mountain. Memorable. Jump to what you need — WiFi, the Arcade, house rules, where the locals eat, and more.
Check-In
4:00 PM
Check-Out
10:00 AM
WiFi Network
BlackcrestRetreat
WiFi Password
BCR2026!
Sleeps
18 max
Parking
6–7 cars
Your entry code comes in your welcome message from New School Hosting before your stay.
🏰 The House
5 kings. One double queen. A slide bunk room kids will claim instantly. Sleeps 18 max.
Sleeping at a glance
Additional inflatable lounge/sleeping options are available in the simulator space.
5 full bathrooms
A few more things we think you'll love
👶 Traveling with little ones?
Crib · Pack 'n Play · High chair · Baby monitor · Sound machine · Baby gates
And because somebody always forgets something, there's a Forgot Something Station stocked with toiletries and essentials.
📺 TVs & WiFi
Fast WiFi throughout the house and decks. Smart TVs in the bedrooms, living room, rec room and deck with all the main streaming services. We do not subscribe to cable.
🏊 Community Pool
Guests can enjoy community pool access in the summer season for a small per-person fee. Linens and towels are provided.
🎆 Happening in Massanutten
Fall Festival — Saturday, October 10 at the resort
Featured Event
Saturday, October 10, 11:30 AM–6 PM
📍 4616 Massanutten Dr, McGaheysville, VA 22840
The resort's annual fall kickoff. Live music from three bands (Spilling Dew, The Judy Chops, The Six Piece Suits), food from Base Camp/K's Grill/Bayou Kitchen plus dessert vendors, local artisan booths, yard games, and CaveSim — a mobile artificial-cave exploration for kids. Chairs (under 9") and blankets welcome; no outside food/drinks, pets, umbrellas, or tents. Alcohol 21+ with valid ID.
Pricing
$11.79 advance (through Oct 9) · $20 at the gate · 6 & under free · Scenic chairlift rides $22 (limited)
Parking
Free in the ski area lots — arrive early, they fill fast. ADA parking at the Learning Center lot. No roadside parking.
All Summer Long
Spartan Race
October 24–25 — Virginia Spartan Race Weekend at the resort, Sprint/Super/Kids courses. Expect extra traffic/parking activity on the mountain that weekend.
Woodstone Nature Trail
Recently re-routed, ~1.5 mi out-and-back, mostly flat with mountain views. Trailhead at 639 Redstone Dr (parking at 406 Redstone Dr or 525 Gemstone Dr). Little tree cover — bring water and sunscreen.
Handmade Market — Family Entertainment Center
Local artisans + Friends of Hopkins Park Foundation goods, generally open noon–4 PM near the pool. Cash or check only.
Java & Jams
Acoustic music + coffee at the General Store — Saturdays, 9 AM–12 PM.
McGaheysville Farmers Market
Local produce, baked goods, and crafts — Saturdays in season.
Family Adventure Park
Mountain coaster, mega zip, ropes course, mini golf — check current fall hours, may be reduced from summer schedule.
Outdoor Movie Night
Tuesdays at dusk · on the slopes near Base Camp
A family movie on the mountain, free to everyone. Bring a blanket and camp chairs — there's no seating. Grab dinner at Base Camp first and walk over.
Full calendar: massresort.com/calendar
📜 House Rules
Quiet Hours
10:00 PM – 7:00 AM. Keep noise indoors during these hours. No excessive noise at any time, as judged by MPOA or its assigned agents.
Parking
The driveway holds about 6–7 cars. Keep all tires off the road. Don't block fire hydrants or park in front of another property without written approval from your host. Park only in designated areas or the overflow lot (4007 Peak Dr., Massanutten, VA 22840). No buses, campers, or RVs at homes or on roads — the overflow lot is available with written approval from your host.
Fires
High wildfire risk area! No open fires. No unattended fires. No firepit use during quiet hours (10:00 PM – 7:00 AM). Firepits and grills may be restricted during local emergency conditions — check MassanuttenVillage.com or the electronic sign at the entrance for updates.
Alcohol
No open containers on roads or in common areas.
Pets
Pet friendly! Up to 4 pets with a $100 pet fee (total, not per pet or per night). Leash always required when outside. Clean up after your pets.
Trash
Do not place garbage or trash outside, including screened-in porches, decks, or carports. Trash attracts wildlife, which could endanger you and damage the property. Dumpsters are at 4003 Peak Dr., Massanutten, VA 22840.
Max Occupancy
Sleeps 18 max.
🔥 Deck & Firepits
Upper deck: covered outdoor dining for 18+ beneath the pergola, a large outdoor sectional, outdoor TV and the deck firepit. Mid-level deck: hot tub, sauna and a pub table. Covered lower deck: golf hitting net, your own mini-golf course, a golf-ball painting station, two hanging chairs and another outdoor TV. Out back: a second firepit — and yes, we provide the s'mores.
◆ High wildfire risk area — no open fires.
◆ No firepit use during quiet hours (10:00 PM – 7:00 AM).
◆ Never leave a fire unattended.
♨️ Hot Tub & Sauna
🍽️ Local Caterers
Whether you're hosting a family reunion, planning a celebration, or just want a beautifully stocked welcome spread — these are who we recommend. Reach out 7–10 days in advance for best results.
No. 01
Full meals · BBQ spreads · drop-off catering
The local heavy-hitter just minutes from the property. Beloved for smoked brisket, pulled pork, shrimp & grits, and Brunswick stew. Full catering arm handles everything from casual family dinners to large gatherings — and it's also a sit-down restaurant if you want to dine out.
No. 02
Breakfast delivery · brunch · fresh pastries
A boutique kitchen specializing in made-to-order breakfast and brunch. Excellent for slow mornings at the retreat — breakfast sandwiches, chicken & waffles, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks. Plenty of healthy and vegetarian options.
No. 03
Charcuterie · grazing tables · arrival spreads
Stunning charcuterie and grazing boards that arrive ready to serve — perfect for the first night, a bridal shower, or any occasion where you want a beautiful spread without the fuss of a hot meal. Endlessly photogenic and consistently five-star reviewed.
No. 04
Large gatherings · reunions · plated dinners
Full-service caterer with tastings, on-site staff, and wedding-grade execution. Ideal for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, and family reunions of twenty or more at the property. Menus range from elevated comfort food to plated entrées.
Confirm your guest count, dietary restrictions, and delivery window directly with each caterer. Need a recommendation tailored to your occasion? Message your host.
🍴 Dining Out & Pickup
Some of our favorite spots within fifteen minutes — from a pizzeria that always feels like a celebration to the breakfast cafe locals will tell you about within five seconds of meeting you. Save these to your phone before you arrive.
🛵 Don't feel like leaving?
Most local spots are also on DoorDash — delivery direct to the cabin.
No. 01
Italian · pizza · subs · family-friendly
The go-to for "we don’t feel like cooking." Generous portions, warm staff, and a menu deep enough for picky eaters and Italian purists alike. Pizza for the kids, fried ravioli to start, chicken alfredo to share. Closed Sundays — plan your pickup nights accordingly.
No. 02
BBQ · burgers · bar · sit-down dinner
Yes, they cater — but Hank's is also one of the best sit-down dinners in the area. Smoked brisket, shrimp & grits, Brunswick stew, a full bar with bourbon spritzes. Save room for the bread pudding. Excellent for a relaxed dinner out after a day at the resort.
No. 03
Breakfast · brunch · cozy diner vibes
A local breakfast institution. Cinnamon whip waffles, the famous "Andre the Great," Reuben breakfasts, fried green tomatoes, and an unexpectedly excellent espresso martini list. Expect a small wait on weekends — it’s worth it. Ask for Cheyenne or Kevin if either is on shift.
No. 04
Espresso · pastries · quiche · lattes
A tiny, beloved coffee shop with a 4.9-star reputation guests guard like a secret. Quad lattes, blueberry cinnamon rolls, and a quiche people travel for. Opens at 6:30am most weekdays — perfect for the early hiker or simulator session. Closed Sundays.
No. 05
Burgers · wings · cocktails · tiny & fun
A pocket-sized burger joint with a cult following. The Southwest Burger gets all the love, but the Impossible burger is a solid pick for the vegetarian in your group. Seating is limited (five bar seats and a couple of tables), so go early — or order takeout. Closed Tuesdays.
No. 06
Authentic Italian · wine bar · worth the drive
A destination dinner — about twenty minutes east in Shenandoah, but worth it. Family-run, full wine bar, made-in-house desserts. The chicken cacciatore and garlic knots are the standouts. A great anniversary or "we want a real night out" pick. Closed Mondays.
No. 07
American · resort bar & grill · on-mountain
The slope-side scenic bar and grill at Massanutten Resort. Burgers, wings, salads, full bar, and a panoramic mountain view from the deck. Ideal for a casual lunch after a hike or a sunset cocktail night. Hours shift seasonally — call ahead off-season.
No. 08
American · rustic buffet · family-friendly
A rustic, lodge-style restaurant inside Massanutten Resort with a buffet-forward menu — comfort food, hearty portions, and a kid-friendly vibe. Closed Mon & Tue; weekend brunch on Sat & Sun mornings. Good move when you don't feel like leaving the resort.
No. 09
Mexican · margaritas · the closest Mexican spot
The closest Mexican to the resort — same building as Thunderbird Cafe, different door. Generous portions, frozen margaritas that pack a real punch, friendly service. A go-to for an easy casual dinner that everyone in the group will eat.
Hours shift seasonally — call ahead, especially on Sundays and Mondays when several spots close. Reservations appreciated for groups of six or more.
🛒 Provisions & Quick Stops
Whether you're planning a full week of family dinners or just need coffee filters and a bottle of wine — here's where to go. Closest stop is five minutes; full-size grocery is fifteen.
Full Grocery · 15 min
Full-size supermarket with fresh produce, butcher, deli, beer & wine, and a 2lb+ rotisserie chicken that has earned its own loyal following. Open 7am–11pm every day. Best for the big arrival-day grocery run.
14811 Spotswood Trail, ElktonClosest Stop · 5 min
Family-owned country market just off Route 33. Friendly staff, cheap gas (typically $0.10 below town), and the staples you'll inevitably forget. Open daily, 6am–9pm (8am–8pm Sundays). Perfect for the midnight ice cream run.
10775 McGaheysville Rd, McGaheysville
On the Resort
A small grocery and gift shop inside the resort. Wine, snacks, local Virginia products, and souvenirs. Open daily — great for picking up a hostess gift, last-minute essentials, or a bottle of local wine to bring home.
1850 Meadow Vista Ln, MassanuttenHelpful tip: if you're arriving late on a Friday, Food Lion stays open until 11pm — many guests find it easier to grocery shop right after check-in than first thing the next morning.
🍷 Wineries
The Shenandoah Valley is home to dozens of vineyards. Here are our three favorites — closest, fanciest, and quietest. All within a 25-minute drive.
Mountain views · live music · estate wines
The closest winery to the property — just 5 minutes away on a working family farm. Mountain views, an inviting tasting room, live music on weekends, and a kitchen with shareable plates. Excellent for an afternoon flight or a sunset cheese board.
Premier estate winery · events · weddings
Virginia's premier family-owned estate winery, 20 minutes from the property. Bocce courts, vineyard tours, full restaurant, and one of the most beautiful tasting rooms in the Shenandoah Valley. Worth dressing up for — open daily 11am–7pm.
Cozy tasting room · family-friendly · approachable wines
A welcoming, family-run vineyard about 25 minutes away in Bridgewater. Approachable wines, well-priced flights, and a warm tasting room — great for guests new to wine country. Often quieter than the bigger spots if you want a relaxed afternoon.
🎢 Things to Do
Everything from waterparks and ski slopes to gem mining and a petting farm. Massanutten Resort is loaded — and Luray Caverns is 45 minutes east.
Indoor + outdoor · year-round
The biggest indoor waterpark in Virginia — slides, lazy river, FlowRider, kiddie pool. Day passes available. Open year-round.
Winter only · ~3 min from property
14 trails, 6 lifts, beginner-friendly slopes, night skiing. Lessons + rentals on-site. Season runs December through mid-March.
Year-round · marquee thrill
Massanutten's mountain coaster — 3,380 ft of track with two 360° spirals. You control your own speed (up to 25 mph) on a ~6-minute ride down the mountain.
Winter favorite · all ages
Massive lit tubing hill with magic carpet lift — no walking back up. Reservations recommended on weekends. Open select winter dates.
Summer · no snow required
Snowless summer tubing — two 600-ft lanes with a 120-ft drop and a conveyor lift back to the top. A warm-weather take on the winter favorite.
Outdoor rink · holiday season
Seasonal outdoor ice rink at the resort. Rentals available. Perfect winter-evening activity for kids and date nights.
Summer & shoulder season
Outdoor go-kart track at the Family Adventure Park. Single and double karts, height requirements vary. Open seasonally.
All ages · ~5 min from property
18-hole mini golf course at the Family Adventure Park. Great rainy-day or evening activity. Combo passes with other attractions.
Kid favorite · indoor/outdoor
Sluice and sift through real gem and fossil bags — kids keep what they find. Reliable hit with the under-12 crowd.
Woodstone Meadows · families with kids
Sheep, bunnies, goats, donkeys, ducks, pot-belly pig, turkey. Feed cups $5. Pony rides for kids 2+.
Off-road adventure
Guided dirt-bike and ATV tours through the Massanutten mountains. Lessons available for beginners. Helmets and gear provided.
Concerts · festivals · seasonal
Check the resort calendar for live music, wine festivals, holiday markets, fireworks, and themed weekends. Schedule varies by season.
~45 min drive · National Landmark
One of the largest cave systems on the East Coast. Stalactite Pipe Organ, Dream Lake, guided 1-hour tour. Garden Maze and Toy Museum on-site too. Worth the drive.
🌸 Flower Delivery
Local florist offering delivery to Blackcrest Retreat. Perfect for special occasions, anniversaries, and celebrations.
👶🐾 Babysitters & Pet Care
All providers personally vetted. Text to inquire about availability.
Elizabeth C.
JMU Honors Student · All ages & pets welcome
Elizabeth (Lizzy) H.
Age 17 · Ski instructor for children
Olivia Brown
JMU Senior · Pet Care Specialist · 7+ yrs experience · Medication administration trained
Taylor-Monet Pennix
JMU Student · Elementary Education · YMCA teacher & camp counselor
Olivia Wagner
JMU Student
💆 In-Room Massage
Mobile massage therapy, delivered right to the house. Call ahead to book.
Eminence Mobile Massage Therapy & Spa Service
Mobile massage — comes to you, 60-120 min sessions, 7 days a week 9am-10pm. Call ahead to confirm they'll travel to Massanutten.
Light of Lotus Massage
Mobile massage therapist — makes house calls to the property. Book online or call ahead. Closed Mondays.
🎒 What to Pack
We stock towels, linens, toiletries, coffee, hair dryers — here's what to bring.
Year-round
Swimsuit (hot tub + waterpark) · Light layers · Phone charger
Winter (Dec–Mar)
Warm coat · Snow boots · Gloves · Hand warmers if hitting the slopes
Spring + Fall
Hiking shoes · Light jacket · Sunglasses · Camera for the views
Summer
Sunscreen · Bug spray for evening firepits · Pool/water park stuff
📋 Check-Out
Check-out is by 10:00 AM. Following this list helps us turn the home over for the next guests.
🗑️ Trash Disposal
Take all bagged trash to the MPOA Community Dumpsters:
4003 Peak Dr., Massanutten, VA 22840 →🚨 Emergency & Important Contacts
Guest Support (New School Hosting)
(434) 285-9666Hosts — Reba & John Coleman
(757) 810-7252Emergency
911Police (Non-Emergency)
(540) 434-4436Sentara RMH Medical Center
2010 Health Campus Dr, Harrisonburg, VATrash — Community Dumpsters
4003 Peak Dr., Massanutten, VA 22840