Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · WV

Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area is a serene natural haven in West Virginia, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation, and outdoor recreation.

Wildlife Management Area2,9851+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,985

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area is a serene natural haven in West Virginia, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation, and outdoor recreation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area, located in Lewis and Upshur counties of West Virginia, encompasses a tranquil expanse around Stonecoal Lake. This 550-acre reservoir was constructed in the late 1970s for flood control and recreational use. The area is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and the scenic Stonecoal Lake, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking bass, crappie, and catfish. The region supports diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, and a variety of waterfowl, making it an appealing location for wildlife viewing and hunting. Stonecoal Lake WMA is predominantly forested, offering peaceful settings for hiking and birdwatching. Although the area is primarily geared toward fishing and hunting, its natural beauty and quietude attract visitors looking for a tranquil outdoor escape.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

Scenic Stonecoal LakeDiverse wildlife, including waterfowl and game speciesExcellent fishing opportunities for bass and crappieSerene, forested landscapes perfect for birdwatching
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Stonecoal 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 Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees, but fishing and hunting licenses are required.

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 Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Primitive Camping Area

Accessible along the lake, offering basic camping experience with no facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Roanoke, West Virginia
6.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roanoke, West Virginia

Roanoke, WV offers a peaceful escape with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking on picturesque lakes. Ideal for reconnecting with nature in a serene setting.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Buckhannon, West Virginia
8.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Buckhannon, West Virginia

Buckhannon, WV offers tranquil rivers for fishing and kayaking, scenic trails for hiking, and serene woods for camping. Explore this charming town and its outdoor beauty in the Alleghenies.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Weston, West Virginia
8.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weston, West Virginia

Weston is a peaceful West Virginia town offering access to Stonecoal Lake and surrounding forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, paddling, and fishing in a quiet natural setting, making it ideal for travelers seeking low-key outdoor adventure.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Jane Lew, West Virginia
11.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jane Lew, West Virginia

Jane Lew is a small town in West Virginia offering easy access to hiking, paddling, and wildlife spotting in nearby forests and rivers. It’s a peaceful spot for outdoor lovers looking to explore nature at a relaxed pace.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Burnsville, West Virginia
16.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burnsville, West Virginia

Burnsville, WV offers a tranquil outdoor experience with hiking, paddling, and fishing around its serene lake and lush forests. Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful nature adventures off the main tourist routes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hacker Valley, West Virginia
19.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hacker Valley, West Virginia

Hacker Valley is a peaceful West Virginia mountain town ideal for hikers, paddlers, and backpackers seeking quiet trails and rivers surrounded by forest and wilderness.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area

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

Boardwalk Wakeups and Waterpark Evenings: A Five‑Day Myrtle Beach Stay
ADVEXPEDITION
Myrtle Beach, SC
LodgingADV Bookable

Boardwalk Wakeups and Waterpark Evenings: A Five‑Day Myrtle Beach Stay

A five-day oceanfront lodging package on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk that includes round‑trip coach transportation, beachfront rooms, an on‑site water park and daily hot breakfasts—this guide explains what’s included and how to plan.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip