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.
September marks the beginning of many hunting seasons, and officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources are reminding hunters to prepare by scouting, inspecting equipment, and sharpening their skills. “By late August you should be able to gauge fall mast conditions in the areas you hunt,” says Ethan Barton, a wildlife-biologist stationed in Romney. … Read more
The West Virginia Tourism Office has launched its official countdown to Gauley Season. Only 10 days remain until whitewater-rafting enthusiasts from around the world travel to West Virginia to experience some of the best Class V+ rapids along the East Coast. “West Virginia’s whitewater is truly ‘almost heaven,’ and this Gauley Season, I invite everyone … Read more
Applications to participate in controlled deer hunts necessary to manage herds at nine West Virginia state parks are being accepted through Sept. 9. The hunts are scheduled throughout the fall at Pipestem, Stonewall, Beech Fork, North Bend, Twin Falls, Cacapon, Canaan Valley, Lost River, and Watoga, according to West Virginia State Parks Chief Sam England. “Previous controlled … Read more
Start the school-year off by unplugging with the kids on a whitewater rafting trip through the New River Gorge, a chasm deep enough and a journey wet enough to inhibit smart-phone use. The vice-president of River Expeditions, Heather Johnson says last-minute trips through the gorge are popular with families in search of end-of-summer fun, but … Read more
West Virginia’s 2018-2019 hunting season dates and bag limits for sora, woodcock, mourning dove, common snipe, and Virginia rails have been set by the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. These seasons are set within the annual guidelines established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, according to a press release issued by Mike Peters of … Read more
Important changes to West Virginia’s fall hunting seasons are included in the new 2018-2019 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary, which officials at the state Division of Natural Resources are encouraging hunters and trappers to carefully review. Numerous regulation changes will be in place this fall, including those that will affect turkey, bear, boar, raccoon … Read more
In anticipation of fall hunting season, the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources is reminding hunters and trappers to prepare for a safe and enjoyable season and to refresh themselves on hunting ethics. “Hunting ethically and legally preserves our image as sportsmen and women and promotes good stewardship of our natural resources,” said Gary Foster, assistant … Read more
One of the oldest rivers in the world, the New River courses more than 300 miles through North Carolina, Virginia, and, perhaps most famously, West Virginia. Downstream, in West Virginia, the New River Gorge takes its place as the jewel of this ancient river and is the scene of soaring cliffs and pounding waters surging … Read more
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is asking hunters and anglers to enter showcase pieces for its big buck and trophy fish display at the National Hunting and Fishing Day celebration at Stonewall Resort State Park on Sept. 22-23. Mounted trophy white-tailed bucks with a Pope-and-Young or Boone-and-Crockett score of 140 or greater that were … Read more
A whitewater-rafting trip on the New River may be the most exciting adventure many people experience, but one outfitter is ensuring guests have the opportunity to enjoy its lighter aspect. Entry-level float trips can provide beginners and families with children as young as six an ideal introduction to the river — affordable excursions that don’t … Read more
