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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 30 miles.

Authentic Flavors at Rio Bravo 2 in Point Pleasant⌖ 10 miDining
Rio Bravo 2

Authentic Flavors at Rio Bravo 2 in Point Pleasant

Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at Rio Bravo 2, a local gem in Point Pleasant, WV. Perfect for family dining with convenient parking and outdoor seating. Explore nearby attractions like the Mothman Museum and Tu-Endie-Wei State Park for a full cultural experience.

Red House Rocks - A Hidden Gem in West Virginia★ 6.5⌖ 14 miRock Climbing
Red House Rocks

Red House Rocks - A Hidden Gem in West Virginia

Explore Red House Rocks in West Virginia for rock climbing and hiking. With moderate difficulty, enjoy beautiful views and diverse flora. Ideal for spring and fall visits, adventure seekers will find tranquility in this scenic spot.

Rock ClimbingView Details→
Discovering Rio Bravo: A Hidden Gem in Mason, WV★ 7.5⌖ 22 miHiking
Rio Bravo

Discovering Rio Bravo: A Hidden Gem in Mason, WV

Explore Rio Bravo, located near Mason, WV. This serene area is ideal for hiking and bird watching, offering quiet forests and open fields. Best visited in spring, it's perfect for adventure seekers interested in local wildlife and tranquility.

Nature's Retreat: Huntington Museum of Art Nature Trail★ 5.0⌖ 30 miHiking
Huntington Museum of Art Nature Trail

Nature's Retreat: Huntington Museum of Art Nature Trail

Explore the Huntington Museum of Art Nature Trail in Huntington, WV. This easy trail features diverse flora and fauna across a scenic woodland path, perfect for hiking and bird watching. Enjoy vivid foliage in fall and spring's wildflowers. Family-friendly and educational.

Wildlife Wonders: Saving WV Wildlife in Gandeeville★ 7.8⌖ 30 miWildlife Observation
Saving WV Wildlife (SWVWL)

Wildlife Wonders: Saving WV Wildlife in Gandeeville

Explore Saving WV Wildlife near Gandeeville, WV, a family-friendly spot for wildlife observation. Best visited in spring and summer, enjoy guided tours and photography opportunities to learn about native species and conservation efforts.

Wildlife ObservationView Details→
Camping at Beech Fork: A Natural Escape★ 7.2⌖ 32 miCamping
Beech Fork Campgrounds

Camping at Beech Fork: A Natural Escape

Explore Beech Fork Campgrounds in Barboursville, WV for a serene camping experience. Suitable for tents and RVs, with hiking and kayaking activities available. Best visited in spring and fall, this family-friendly spot offers beautiful views and trails.

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
⌖ 4.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Southside, West Virginia

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to West Virginia’s rolling hills, forests, and waterways perfect for low-key outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Henderson
⌖ 9.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Henderson, West Virginia

A quiet small town offering access to rugged Appalachian forests, ideal for visitors seeking peaceful hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Point Pleasant
⌖ 10.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Point Pleasant, West Virginia

A riverfront town offering scenic paddling, hiking, and biking with historical landmarks along the Ohio River, blending outdoor recreation with rich cultural heritage.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Gallipolis
⌖ 10.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gallipolis, Ohio

A historic riverside town offering relaxed outdoor activities along the Ohio River and nearby natural areas, ideal for paddlers, anglers, and casual hikers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Winfield
⌖ 14.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winfield, West Virginia

A quiet riverside town with easy access to water adventures and nearby natural areas, offering a peaceful base for paddling, hiking, and cycling enthusiasts.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Hurricane
⌖ 19.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hurricane, West Virginia

A friendly gateway town offering access to scenic river adventures, nearby forest trails, and laid-back Appalachian outdoor experiences.

Spring through FallExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Conquer Wilder's Zip-n-Climb: An Appalachian Aerial Adventure in Huntington, WVHuntington, West Virginia · 29.40 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Heritage Farm Museum & Village

Conquer Wilder's Zip-n-Climb: An Appalachian Aerial Adventure in Huntington, WV

Wilder's Zip-n-Climb in Huntington, WV offers a thrilling aerial course with rope bridges, cargo nets, and a zipline—perfect for all ages seeking a true Appalachian outdoor challenge. Discover why this engaging course is a standout family-friendly adventure in the heart of West Virginia.

1–1.5 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.