Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide

Wildlife Management Area · WV

Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area offers a serene escape into nature with its scenic lake, abundant wildlife, and varied recreational opportunities.

Wildlife Management Area8964+ Trails

1974WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

896

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area offers a serene escape into nature with its scenic lake, abundant wildlife, and varied recreational opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area is located in Monroe County, West Virginia, and spans approximately 896 acres. The area centers around Moncove Lake, a 144-acre body of water that provides a focal point for outdoor activities such as fishing and paddling. The region is characterized by picturesque rolling hills, diverse woodlands, and grasslands that provide habitats for a rich variety of flora and fauna. Birdwatchers flock to this area, especially during migratory seasons, as it is known for excellent birdwatching opportunities. Moncove Lake also has historical significance as it is nestled within a region rich in Civil War history. The area offers visitors numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping facilities, making it an appealing destination for families and nature lovers. Its remote yet accessible location provides a perfect blend of wilderness and convenience, appealing to both adventure seekers and those seeking tranquility in nature.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Moncove Lake itself, a serene setting ideal for water activities.✦ The rich diversity of bird species, making it a renowned birdwatching site.✦ Remote hiking trails leading through diverse terrains.✦ Picnic areas with scenic views, suitable for family outings.

Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Moncove Lake 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 Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, but fishing requires a valid West Virginia fishing license.

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).

Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Moncove Lake Campground

Located near the lake, offering easy access to water activities and trails.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Union, West Virginia

⌖ 8.12 miles

Gateway Basecamp

Union, West Virginia

Union, WV is a peaceful retreat for outdoor lovers, offering hikes, biking, and wildlife watching in the Appalachian countryside. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and nature's beauty.

Spring and Fall

Back Creek, Virginia

⌖ 12.75 miles

Gateway Basecamp

Back Creek, Virginia

Back Creek, Virginia, offers a peaceful outdoor escape featuring paddling, fishing, and hiking in a quiet rural setting. Perfect for travelers seeking calm waters, wildlife viewing, and rustic camping near the Shenandoah Valley.

Spring through Fall

Ronceverte, West Virginia

⌖ 16.21 miles

Gateway Basecamp

Ronceverte, West Virginia

Ronceverte is a peaceful Appalachian river town perfect for hiking, paddling, and fishing along the scenic Greenbrier River. Its easy trails and natural charm make it a great basecamp for outdoor lovers seeking quiet and community.

Spring through Fall

New Castle, Virginia

⌖ 17.69 miles

Gateway Basecamp

New Castle, Virginia

New Castle, Virginia is a peaceful mountain town ideal for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, and winter sports in the Allegheny Highlands. Its access to national forest trails and natural landmarks offers year-round adventure away from busy hubs.

Spring through Fall for hiking, paddling, and biking; Winter for snow sports

Alderson, West Virginia

⌖ 18.50 miles

Gateway Basecamp

Alderson, West Virginia

Alderson, West Virginia, is a peaceful town where paddling, fly fishing, and hiking weave into a charming riverside adventure. With scenic river trails and rich history, it’s perfect for laid-back escapes and nature lovers.

Spring through Fall

Blacksburg, Virginia

⌖ 19.66 miles

Gateway Basecamp

Blacksburg, Virginia

Blacksburg is a lively college town with prime access to outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking amidst the natural beauty of the Appalachian region.

Spring and Fall

Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Moncove Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Verified Outdoor Outfitters

Lower New River • Full Day — Big Water, Quiet Pools, and a Bridge-Side Finale

ADVEXPEDITION

Lansing, West Virginia

RaftingADV Bookable

Lower New River • Full Day — Big Water, Quiet Pools, and a Bridge-Side Finale

A full-day rafting trip on the Lower New River that runs the river's biggest rapids, punctuated by calm stretches, ghost towns and a deli-style lunch—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Run the Upper James: A 10.5‑Mile Paddle Through Mountain Water and Class I–II Rapids

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Run the Upper James: A 10.5‑Mile Paddle Through Mountain Water and Class I–II Rapids

A full‑day James River kayak or canoe run from Buchanan to Alpine that pairs scenic mountain river corridors with sustained Class I and II whitewater—useful for planners who need logistics, gear, and group requirements.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Half-day Rafting on the Upper New River: A Short, Family-Friendly Rush

ADVEXPEDITION

Russellville, West Virginia

RaftingADV Bookable

Half-day Rafting on the Upper New River: A Short, Family-Friendly Rush

A compact 1–3 hour express trip that delivers mild whitewater and scenic gorge views—this guide explains who it’s best for, what to bring, and how the run unfolds.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Two Days on the Upper Gauley: Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle and the 14‑foot Sweet’s Falls

ADVEXPEDITION

Russellville, West Virginia

RaftingADV Bookable

Two Days on the Upper Gauley: Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle and the 14‑foot Sweet’s Falls

A two-day Upper Gauley whitewater rafting trip running legendary Class V rapids — this guide explains what to expect, where to meet, and how the days unfold.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run

A 2-day, 16.5-mile wilderness canoe-camping run from Buchanan that lays out the route, logistics, and the skills you’ll need to handle rapids, a strong current, and an overnight backcountry camp.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Nine Miles of James River: Mountain Scenery, Class I–II Rapids, and a Self‑Guided Half‑Day Paddle

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Nine Miles of James River: Mountain Scenery, Class I–II Rapids, and a Self‑Guided Half‑Day Paddle

A self-guided, half‑day paddle run by Twin Rivers Outfitters from Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan covering roughly nine river miles; this guide lays out logistics, safety requirements, and what to expect on the water.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Five Days of Upper James Wilderness: Glen Wilton to Snowden by Paddle

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Five Days of Upper James Wilderness: Glen Wilton to Snowden by Paddle

A 5-day, 4-night, 63-mile expedition on the Upper James River Water Trail that pairs sustained whitewater and wilderness campsites with resupply options in Buchanan and Glasgow.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Six Miles of Currents and Rock: The James River Run from Buchanan to Arcadia

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Six Miles of Currents and Rock: The James River Run from Buchanan to Arcadia

A focused 6-mile paddle down a lively stretch of the James River — Class I & II rapids, safety orientation, and provided equipment make this a compact, active river outing.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Overnight on the James: A Short, Wild Paddle from Buchanan to Alpine

ADVEXPEDITION

Buchanan, Virginia

KayakADV Bookable

Overnight on the James: A Short, Wild Paddle from Buchanan to Alpine

A compact 2-day, 1-night river trip covering 10.5 miles that pairs family-friendly paddling with excellent smallmouth bass fishing.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Hunting Musky on the James and New: Roanoke’s High‑Intensity Fly‑Fishing Charters

ADVEXPEDITION

Roanoke, Virginia

FishingADV Bookable

Hunting Musky on the James and New: Roanoke’s High‑Intensity Fly‑Fishing Charters

Half‑ and full‑day guided charters from Roanoke on the James and New Rivers that pair expert instruction with best‑in‑class flies and tackle for anglers chasing Virginia’s hard‑fighting Musky.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Single-Pitch Mastery: Hands-On SPI Skills and Staff Training in Roanoke

ADVEXPEDITION

Roanoke, Virginia

ClimbingADV Bookable

Single-Pitch Mastery: Hands-On SPI Skills and Staff Training in Roanoke

A focused, up-to-7-hour course teaching single-pitch techniques — belay, rappel, site setup and rescue — for recreational climbers and camp staff.

ClimbingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip

Riverbank Music Chronicles — a four‑hour river ride from Alleghany Outdoors to the brewhouse at Cliffview

ADVEXPEDITION

Covington, Virginia

FishingADV Bookable

Riverbank Music Chronicles — a four‑hour river ride from Alleghany Outdoors to the brewhouse at Cliffview

A 4‑hour route in Covington that follows the river from Alleghany Outdoors (MM 0) to Smith Bridge (MM 7.25) with a riverside finish at Cliffview Brewhouse; this guide compiles the route, stops, and practical details.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter

Bookable OnlineBook Trip