West Virginia Explorer West Virginia Explorer News
Browse

Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

See our Attractions Travel Guide

Wildlife refuges and management areas in West Virginia protect the state’s diverse habitats and offer visitors incredible opportunities to experience native wildlife up close. From the serene wetlands of Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge to the rich forests and streams of Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge, these protected areas provide safe havens for rare plants, migratory birds, and countless animal species. West Virginia’s numerous wildlife management areas, such as Coopers Rock and Plum Orchard Lake, welcome hunters, anglers, hikers, and nature photographers to enjoy well-maintained trails, fishing spots, and serene observation areas. Whether you’re birdwatching, hiking, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of nature, the state’s wildlife refuges and management areas highlight West Virginia’s commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation.

Bear Lake is one of several small fishing lakes at Bear Rock Lakes Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County, West Virginia. Fishing access is temporarily closing while the state modifies two dams at the property. (Photo by Brian M. Powell/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

Fishing closes at Bear Rock Lakes WMA as $1.5 million dam project begins

by Will Reedy

VALLEY GROVE, W.Va. — Fishing access at Bear Rock Lakes Wildlife Management Area near Wheeling will temporarily close as the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources begins modifications to two dams at the popular Ohio County fishing area. The work aims to bring the dams into full compliance with the West Virginia Dam Control and Safety Act, according … Read more

West Virginia waterfowl hunt
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

West Virginia waterfowl hunt applications open at McClintic, home of Mothman legend

by Will Reedy

POINT PLEASANT, W.Va. — The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources is accepting applications for a controlled waterfowl hunt scheduled for Oct. 3-11 at McClintic Wildlife Management Area near Point Pleasant in Mason County. Waterfowl hunters who wish to participate must submit their application by 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 14 at WVHunt.com, according to Brett McMillion, director of … Read more

Fishing opportunities at Green Bottom include access to the Ohio River, wetlands, and the public boat ramp.
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

Green Bottom boat ramp on Ohio River near Huntington reopens

by Clyde Craig

GREEN BOTTOM, W.Va. —  Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources have announced that the public boat ramp at Green Bottom Wildlife Management Area has reopened after a short closure. According to Brett McMillion, the agency’s director, officials are evaluating plans for future upgrades to the facility to better serve West Virginia’s boating and … Read more

Canaan Valley Wetlands in West Virginia
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

Purchase preserves increased habitat in the Canaan Valley in West Virginia

by Amanda Larch Hinchman

DAVIS, W.Va. — An almost 2,000-acre property purchased by The Nature Conservancy in West Virginia is preserving habitat adjoining the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and will ensure access to outdoor recreation in the Canaan Valley. Thomas Minney, director of the conservancy in West Virginia, says the ‘Big Cove’ tract in the northern end of … Read more

Dents Run Wildlife Management Area in West Virginia
Wildlife Refuges, Management Areas

Mannington, state expand outdoor recreation at Dents Run

by Will Reedy

MANNINGTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has entered into a long-term agreement with Mannington, West Virginia, to allow public hunting, fishing, and trapping on nearly 114 acres in Marion County. The property has been incorporated into the existing 1,259-acre Dents Run Wildlife Management Area. The 10-acre Mannington Lake is also included … Read more