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.
THURMOND, W.Va. — One of the richest aspects of history in southern West Virginia involves coal mining. Following the Civil War, coal production in much of the region boomed. Railroads were soon built along the New, Coal, and Guyandotte rivers to transport the coal out to mills in the Ohio Valley. Coalfields were plentiful throughout … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Wild turkey hunting will return to West Virginia when the fall season’s first segment opens in all 55 counties on October 11, according to officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. Brett McMillion, director of the division, says he hopes more wild turkeys appear on dining room tables throughout West Virginia … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Several migratory bird hunting seasons will open in West Virginia in October, a rite of autumn for many hunters. From October 4-12, hunters may pursue ducks, coots, gallinules, and mergansers, though hunters should note that scaup are included in the daily bag limit for ducks, says Brett McMillions, director of the W.Va. … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — Officials at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced today that hunters preparing for fall seasons may now consult the 2025 West Virginia Hunting Outlook and Mast Survey. The report and survey detail the abundance of wild fruits and nuts produced by 18 species of trees and shrubs that support wildlife … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources today announced that the next segment of the state’s black bear firearms season will be open in select counties September 20-26. Additional bear firearms season segments are scheduled for Oct. 4-10, Oct. 23-26, Nov. 24-Dec. 7, and Dec. 8-31, 2025. Archery and crossbow seasons … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources announced today that archery and crossbow seasons for white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild boar will open on Sept. 27. WVDNR Director Brett McMillion is reminding hunters to purchase licenses early, follow new regulations, and to electronically check all harvests. “The start of West … Read more
CANAAN VALLEY, W.Va. – During a time of year when snuggling under a blanket seems more reasonable than going outside, West Virginia offers a range of winter activities that promise to turn the cold into memorable experiences. From winter sports to charming towns to scenic train rides, there are at least five good reasons for … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Trail advocates and trail-building organizations from across West Virginia are being asked to voice their opinions on building and maintaining the Mountain State’s recreational trails this fall in a series of statewide meetings. Sam England, executive director of West Virginia Trail, says the meetings will bring together stakeholders from across the region … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Officials at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources have announced that future meetings of the state’s natural resources commission will begin at 6 p.m. to make it easier for the public to participate. The decision follows the success of the July 24 commission meeting, which was the first to be held … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia officials are reminding hunters with disabilities that special access roads in national forests and state-owned wildlife management areas are open specifically to them. Brett McMillion, director of the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources, said that designating hunting areas for disabled hunters is a program that encourages everyone to hunt. “Hunting … Read more
