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.
As the summer boating season approaches, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is reminding members of the public to wear life jackets while boating or swimming in lakes, rivers, and streams. Most water-related deaths, injuries, and incidents in West Virginia happen because someone was not wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device, according … Read more
It’s finally stopped snowing in the Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia—in time for officials at Snowshoe Mountain Resort to unveil a modified schedule of events for summer and fall 2020. Including its Snowshoe Bike Park, the highland resort perhaps best-known for its ski areas will operate Thursdays through Sundays beginning July 2, according to resort president … Read more
State-managed parks and forests in West Virginia are offering state residents discounts of 30 percent on overnight stays in cabins, campgrounds, and lodge rooms between June 1 through August 31, 2020. Governor Jim Justice announces the historic discount on lodging to show his appreciation for the resiliency and support of West Virginians during the COVID-19 … Read more
Overnight facilities in West Virginia’s state parks and forests closed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus will start reopening to state residents on May 21. Campgrounds are scheduled to open May 21, while cabins and lodges will open on May 26, according to park system officials. To follow the guidelines of Governor Jim … Read more
A West Virginia University researcher says exercising on local rail trails has doubled during the pandemic and is safe as long as people use best practices to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. According to the Mon River Trails Conservancy trail counter data, trail use at the trail’s Van Voorhis trailhead is up 101 percent, and … Read more
Turkey hunters in West Virginia can anticipate increased harvest opportunities during the 2020 spring gobbler season, which is scheduled to open Monday, April 20, according to the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. Predictions are based on brood reports from two years earlier, as the average harvested gobbler is a two-year-old bird, and in 2018, brood … Read more
With a stay-at-home order in place across West Virginia, it’s a critical time to add exercise to your daily routine, says a physical activity expert at West Virginia University. In addition to outdoor activities such as biking and walking, there are plenty of ways to increase physical activity at home, according to Eloise Elliott, Ware … Read more
Bigfoot and the Flatwoods Monster aren’t the only bizarre creatures being reported at the center of West Virginia in Braxton County. Apparently, the fishing is hard to believe, too. Trophies of legendary size are being taken in its lakes and rivers, and fishing in the area appears to be on the increase as the coronavirus … Read more
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice is directing private campgrounds to prohibit new out-of-state campers to limit the rate of spread of COVID-19 in the Mountain State. The governor made the announcement on March 31 at the state capitol in Charleston, West Virginia, while also issuing an executive order to suspend all scheduled elective medical procedures. … Read more
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has announced that to encourage solitary outdoor activity during the coronavirus outbreak, state residents can enjoy a month of free fishing. Through Friday, April 24, the requirement to possess a fishing license to fish in state-regulated waters has been waived for state residents, though anglers must practice safe social distancing. … Read more
