The Little Goat Farm at the Lake

Tucked along the shoreline of a private lake in Nokesville, Virginia, The Little Goat Farm at the Lake delivers an experience that feels worlds away from the Washington D.C. suburbs. This family-run operation has built a devoted following for its intimate, hands-on goat yoga sessions and animal encounters, where the setting is as much a draw as the animals themselves. Classes unfold lakeside with water views providing a serene backdrop, though most participants find their attention firmly captured by the friendly goats—and occasionally a baby alpaca—who roam freely among the yoga mats.

Goat yoga sessions feature friendly residents like Elsie and Fudge, with staff on hand to help goats climb onto participants for photos

The yoga sessions prioritize animal interaction over serious practice. Staff actively assist by encouraging goats to climb on participants and positioning them for memorable photographs. Baby goats are distributed at the start, and with personalities already fully formed, they tend to act like competitive, social, and endlessly entertaining "farmhouse teenagers." Visitors should bring their own yoga mat and expect more laughter than meditation. The experience runs in most weather conditions, and overcast days can mean smaller crowds and more intimate sessions.

Beyond yoga, the farm offers baby goat and bunny snuggle sessions, bottle feeding, and guided tours with animals that follow you along the way

Animal encounters here go well beyond the yoga mat. Visitors can walk their own goat, bottle-feed babies, and tour the grounds where adult goats tag along as unofficial escorts. The farm is home to a diverse cast: Marshmellow the llama is a particular favorite, alongside donkeys, alpacas, chickens, bunnies, and occasionally kittens. Bottle feeding is included with admission, and guests can bring their own vegetables like carrots and celery with owner approval. Snuggle sessions sell out rapidly—the farm recommends following their Facebook page for immediate notification when tickets are released.

Owner Susan and her family extend genuine hospitality, from fresh farm gifts to spontaneous acts of generosity

The family's warmth defines the experience. Owner Susan has been known to invite guests to cut flowers from her personal garden for events like weddings, refusing payment. Visitors depart with homemade cheeses, fresh lavender, pumpkin seeds, and cookies—many produced right on the property. The owners remain present throughout visits, sharing knowledge about their animals and ensuring personal attention. This is a working farm, not a polished commercial venue, and that authenticity is precisely what draws multigenerational families back repeatedly.

Private events require careful planning, as cancellation policies are strict and amenities may be limited

While the farm excels at individual and small-group visits, those booking private events should clarify expectations in advance. The venue operates with limited infrastructure for large gatherings—basic necessities like garbage cans may not be readily available. Cancellation policies are firm, with deposits described as non-refundable. For the best experience, the farm shines brightest during its standard goat yoga and animal encounter sessions, where the setting, animals, and hospitality converge beautifully.