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Recreation

See our Recreation Travel Guide

West Virginia offers a diverse array of outdoor recreation opportunities that make it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From world-class whitewater rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers to scenic hiking and rock climbing in the iconic New River Gorge National Park, the Mountain State delivers thrilling experiences year-round. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, camping, mountain biking, and winter sports in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. With its lush forests, winding rivers, and rich heritage, West Virginia offers a perfect setting for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore breathtaking natural landscapes. Be sure to visit our guide for information about indoor and outdoor recreation in West Virginia.

An angler casts into a river in the Monongahela National Forest.
Recreation

2022 W.Va. fishing regulations now available online

by Will Reedy

The 2022 West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary is now available online through the state Division of Natural Resources. Printed copies will also be available at license agents and division district offices in early January. Anglers are encouraged to review the new regulations to familiarize themselves with changes and should contact division offices for clarification if … Read more

Hunting is permitted in parts of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. (Photo courtesy Julian Hanslmaier)
Recreation

New River Gorge National Park implements new hunting regulations

by Will Reedy

Beginning January 1, 2022, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve will implement changes authorized by the recent legislation that expanded the park and will affect hunting therein, according to park officials. Additionally, the park has redesignated the use of an access road in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. The changes will be reflected … Read more

A hunter and his hound venture out on a misty morning hunt.
Recreation

W.Va. reminds hunters and trappers of 2021 furbearer regulations

by Will Reedy

Furbearer hunting seasons are underway in West Virginia, with raccoon hunting continuing through Feb. 28, 2022, and the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources again is offering a $20 gift card for usable otter carcasses. Spotty but locally abundant mast and last year’s mild winter weather should have resulted in good reproduction and survival—leading to increased … Read more

A white-tailed buck peers out from behind a woodpile.
Recreation

W.Va. releases 2021 mast survey and hunting outlook

by David Sibray

Hunters getting ready for the fall hunting seasons can now review the 2021 Mast Survey and Hunting Outlook publication available on the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website at WVdnr.gov. “Beech, walnut, hickory and black cherry production was up dramatically above last year and the long-term average,” said Chris Ryan, supervisor of WVDNR’s Game Management Services. … Read more

A hunter addresses his dogs during an autumn hunt. (Photo courtesy Seth Schulte)
Recreation

Seasons set for dove, snipe, sora, woodcock, Virginia rails

by David Sibray

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced 2021-’22 hunting season dates and bag limits for mourning dove, snipe, sora, woodcock, and Virginia rails. The seasons are set within the annual guidelines established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The dove season is split into three segments with this first segment running from Sept. … Read more