Public Hunting Land in West Virginia
West Virginia is known for its rugged mountains and deep hunting heritage. With over 1.4 million acres of public land available, the Mountain State offers strong opportunities to pursue whitetail deer, black bear, turkey, wild boar, and small game across state forests, WMAs, and national lands.
Types of Public Land Available in West Virginia:
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR), open to regulated public hunting with proper licensing.
State Forests & Parks: Many allow hunting in designated zones and during open seasons.
Monongahela National Forest: The largest national forest in the state, offering vast big game access and scenic terrain.
Private Lands Open to Public: WVDNR’s Cooperative and Controlled Hunting Access programs allow limited hunting on enrolled private properties.
Seasons & Access Info
West Virginia hunting regulations are zone-based, and some species (like bear or wild boar) may require additional permits or follow special regulations. Controlled hunts exist for limited-entry areas.
Key Resources:
Pro Tip: Southern West Virginia offers public land wild boar hunting, a rare and unique challenge found in only a few counties.
Explore West Virginia’s Public Hunting Access
Use these tools to scout hunting zones, WMAs, and public land areas across the state:
Whether you're still-hunting hardwood ridges or running ridgelines for bear, West Virginia’s public lands offer wild terrain and classic Appalachian hunting experiences.