Green Bank Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · West Virginia

Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Green Bank Wildlife Management Area is a protected habitat in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, known for its diverse wildlife, serene forested landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts focused on hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Management Area7,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

7,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Green Bank Wildlife Management Area is a protected habitat in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, known for its diverse wildlife, serene forested landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts focused on hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Green Bank Wildlife Management Area (WMA) covers a sizable portion of forested land in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. The area primarily consists of Appalachian hardwood forests, mixed with pockets of conifer stands and wetlands that provide critical habitat for a variety of wildlife species. The WMA is well-known for its healthy populations of white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and numerous small game species. Water bodies and streams within the area offer fishing opportunities, supporting species such as trout and bass. The region's topography features gentle ridges and valleys common to the Allegheny Mountains, providing scenic vistas and accessible terrain for hiking and wildlife watching. Historically, the land was managed both for timber and conservation purposes, with the wildlife area established to protect habitat and promote sustainable hunting and recreation. Visitors to Green Bank WMA enjoy quiet, less crowded settings ideal for upland game bird hunting, bow hunting, and nature photography. Trails and forest roads afford access to remote sections of the area, while designated parking areas support day use. The area appeals to those seeking wildlife encounters, outdoor skills practice, and natural solitude amidst the Appalachian forest ecosystem. Nearby towns and communities provide basic visitor services and the region is characterized by its peaceful environment and high-quality wildlife habitats.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Prime white-tailed deer and wild turkey habitat✦ Brook trout fishing streams located within the area✦ Quiet forest roads and trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking✦ Remote wetlands providing important habitat for migratory birds
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees; valid West Virginia hunting or fishing license required for applicable activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Green Bank, West Virginia
⌖ 1.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Bank, West Virginia

Green Bank, West Virginia, offers peaceful mountain hiking, exceptional stargazing, and abundant wildlife watching in the National Radio Quiet Zone. Surrounded by protected forests, it’s a secluded spot for nature and astronomy lovers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Monterey, West Virginia
⌖ 6.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Monterey, West Virginia

Monterey, WV is a peaceful mountain town perfect for hiking, paddling, and snowshoeing in the George Washington National Forest. Its quiet trails and rivers offer a true Appalachian outdoor experience away from crowded parks.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Durbin, West Virginia
⌖ 7.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Durbin, West Virginia

Durbin is a peaceful mountain town offering rugged hiking, thrilling whitewater kayaking, and scenic train rides. Surrounded by Monongahela National Forest, it’s a great base for exploring Appalachian wilderness and seasonal snow sports.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bartow, West Virginia
⌖ 7.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartow, West Virginia

Bartow offers access to pristine mountain forests, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful river corridors. Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and backpacking, it’s a quiet hub for exploring West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Snowshoe, West Virginia
⌖ 8.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Snowshoe, West Virginia

Snowshoe, WV offers thrilling outdoor adventures with world-class skiing, diverse mountain biking, and scenic hiking. Perfect for enthusiasts ready to explore the Allegheny Mountains.

Monterey, Virginia
⌖ 14.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Monterey, Virginia

Monterey, Virginia is a quiet mountain town offering outdoor lovers peaceful hiking, paddling, and backcountry adventures in the scenic Allegheny Mountains. It’s an ideal basecamp for exploring forests, rivers, and wildlife in all seasons.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Green Bank Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Paddle the Quiet Shoreline: A Day at Lake Moomaw
ADVEXPEDITION
Covington, Virginia
KayakADV Bookable

Paddle the Quiet Shoreline: A Day at Lake Moomaw

Operated by Alleghany Outdoors, this all-day rental offers kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and a 10 x 10 floating dock on Lake Moomaw; this guide explains pickup, delivery and multi-day options.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip