McClintic Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · West Virginia

McClintic Wildlife Management Area

McClintic Wildlife Management Area offers abundant opportunities for hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and nature exploration across its diverse wetlands, forests, and lakes in Mason County, West Virginia.

Wildlife Management Area2,8484+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,848

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About McClintic Wildlife Management Area

McClintic Wildlife Management Area offers abundant opportunities for hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and nature exploration across its diverse wetlands, forests, and lakes in Mason County, West Virginia.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

McClintic Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a 2,848-acre protected area located in Mason County, West Virginia. It features a mix of forested uplands, floodplain wetlands, and several man-made lakes, creating a diverse habitat that supports a wide range of wildlife species. The area is managed primarily for wildlife conservation and public hunting, with game species including waterfowl, deer, turkey, and small game. The wetlands and lakes also attract migratory birds and provide rich opportunities for waterfowl viewing and photography. McClintic WMA is known for its accessible fishing in Shawnee Lake and other water bodies, where anglers can catch bass, catfish, and panfish. Hiking and wildlife viewing trails provide easy access to the natural areas, with vantage points ideal for observing seasonal bird migrations and other wildlife activity. The area’s history is tied closely to local conservation efforts to restore wetland habitats along the Ohio River floodplain. Its proximity to the Ohio River adds to the ecological diversity and scenic appeal. Visitors are drawn by quiet, nature-focused recreation and the mix of ecosystems ranging from bottomland hardwoods to open water. The WMA’s flat to gently rolling terrain makes it accessible for visitors of varying skill levels, whether engaging in hunting seasons, casual hiking, or birdwatching. Overall, McClintic WMA offers a valuable refuge for wildlife and a versatile outdoor recreation destination near the Ohio River Valley.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near McClintic Wildlife Management Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Shawnee Lake – a key fishing and waterfowl habitat✦ Varied wetland ecosystems supporting migratory birds✦ Abundant hunting opportunities for waterfowl, deer, and turkey✦ Accessible wildlife viewing trails with scenic overlooks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in McClintic Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in McClintic Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in McClintic 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 McClintic Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no general admission fee; hunting permits required during hunting seasons.

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 McClintic Wildlife Management Area

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

Southside, West Virginia
⌖ 4.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Southside, West Virginia

Southside, West Virginia offers a peaceful rural escape with hiking, paddling, and fishing in scenic forests and rivers. It’s ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor adventures off the beaten path.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Henderson, West Virginia
⌖ 9.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Henderson, West Virginia

Henderson, West Virginia, offers outdoor lovers quiet river paddling, scenic hiking, and ample wildlife watching surrounded by Appalachian forests. Ideal for travelers seeking low-key adventure away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Point Pleasant, West Virginia
⌖ 10.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Point Pleasant, West Virginia

Point Pleasant, WV, offers riverfront hiking, biking, and paddling adventures along the Ohio River. With historic parks, unique landmarks, and peaceful outdoor spaces, it’s a great basecamp for exploring this scenic river town in spring through fall.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Gallipolis, Ohio
⌖ 10.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gallipolis, Ohio

Gallipolis offers a peaceful outdoor escape with excellent paddling on the Ohio River, easy hiking in nearby forests, and plentiful fishing spots. Its small-town charm and river views make it a perfect base for mellow outdoor adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Winfield, West Virginia
⌖ 14.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winfield, West Virginia

Winfield offers serene riverside paddling and fishing on the Kanawha River, with nearby hiking and bird watching opportunities. This peaceful West Virginia town is a great low-key basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy water and nature adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hurricane, West Virginia
⌖ 19.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hurricane, West Virginia

Hurricane, WV, is a small town perfect for outdoor fans seeking hiking, paddling, biking, and fishing near scenic rivers and state parks. It offers a peaceful basecamp with access to river trails and forest adventures without the crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in McClintic Wildlife Management Area

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

Come Pour a Pride Candle or Tart Melt!
ADVEXPEDITION
Huntington, West Virginia
WorkshopADV Bookable

Come Pour a Pride Candle or Tart Melt!

A hands-on workshop in Huntington to create a scented candle or tart while directing 20% of ticket sales to Huntington Pride — this guide explains options, timing, and what to expect.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Headfirst Over Fern Island: A 75+ Foot Rappel in Rockbridge, Ohio
ADVEXPEDITION
Rockbridge, Ohio
ClimbingADV Bookable

Headfirst Over Fern Island: A 75+ Foot Rappel in Rockbridge, Ohio

Three distinct rappels — a 40 ft flat wall, Ohio’s only 60 ft canyon rappel (accessed by two sky bridges), and a 75+ ft descent off Fern Island — led by High Rock Adventures on private cliffs; this guide distills what to expect and how to prepare.

ClimbingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip