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Wildlife Management Area · West Virginia

Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area offers diverse outdoor activities in a rich Appalachian forest setting known for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife Management Area2,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area offers diverse outdoor activities in a rich Appalachian forest setting known for hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area encompasses rugged forested terrain typical of the Appalachian region. The area spans a patchwork of uplands and stream valleys dominated by mixed hardwoods, providing habitat for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and various small game species. Historically, this property was acquired to preserve critical wildlife habitat and offer regulated hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities for the public. The WMA features a network of old logging roads and primitive trails, ideal for foot travel, hunting excursions, and wildlife photography. Its proximity to Morgantown makes it a convenient natural escape for locals and visitors seeking woodland solitude combined with rich biodiversity. Anglers can fish in Meador Creek and nearby streams, which support populations of trout and warm water species. Although there are no developed campgrounds within the WMA, dispersed camping is allowed according to West Virginia Division of Natural Resources regulations. Seasonal hunting seasons draw many visitors, particularly during deer and turkey hunts in the fall and spring. This area has limited infrastructure, so visitors should come prepared for self-sufficient outings with an emphasis on low-impact use. Meador Creek WMA appeals to hunters, hikers, and nature enthusiasts eager to experience West Virginia’s woodland ecosystems in a less crowded setting.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Coopers Rock State Forest★ 7.8⌖ 7 miHiking
Coopers Rock State Forest

Discover Coopers Rock State Forest

Explore Coopers Rock State Forest, featuring Coopers Rock Overlook with panoramic views and hiking trails like Ravens Rock Trail. Enjoy biking and rock climbing opportunities. Just 25 minutes from Morgantown, WV, it's ideal for spring and fall visits.

Refreshing Adventures at Valley Falls State Park★ 7.4⌖ 18 miHiking
Valley Falls State Park

Refreshing Adventures at Valley Falls State Park

Explore the natural beauty of Valley Falls State Park near Fairmont, WV. This remarkable location features breathtaking waterfalls and hiking trails. Visit in spring or fall for vibrant foliage. Perfect for hikers and photographers looking to capture nature's serenity.

Nature's Cascade at Swallow Falls★ 8.0⌖ 26 miHiking
Swallow Falls State Park

Nature's Cascade at Swallow Falls

Explore the natural beauty of Swallow Falls State Park near Oakland, Maryland. Featuring the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls, this easy hike offers breathtaking views and is popular for photography and picnicking. Best visited in spring and fall for vibrant foliage.

Waterfall Wonders at Swallow Falls Natural Area★ 8.5⌖ 27 miHiking
Swallow Falls Natural Area

Waterfall Wonders at Swallow Falls Natural Area

Explore the 1.25-mile loop at Swallow Falls Natural Area near Oakland, MD. Featuring the stunning Muddy Creek Falls, it's an easy route perfect for hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching. The area offers lush scenery and historical charm, ideal for a spring or fall visit.

Muddy Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Western Maryland★ 8.2⌖ 27 miHiking
Muddy Creek Falls

Muddy Creek Falls: A Natural Wonder in Western Maryland

Explore Muddy Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland located near Oakland. This scenic destination within Swallow Falls State Park offers hiking, photography, and wildlife observation. Best visited in spring or fall for vibrant foliage views.

Waterfall Wonders: Tolliver Falls★ 7.8⌖ 27 miHiking
Tolliver Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Tolliver Falls

Explore Tolliver Falls in Swallow Falls State Park, located near Oakland, Maryland. This easy waterfall hike offers serene landscapes, perfect for families. Enjoy activities like swimming and picnicking. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls. Best visited in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Meador Creek – a clear coldwater stream supporting trout fishing✦ Diverse Appalachian hardwood forest supporting abundant wildlife✦ Woodland hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, and small game✦ Remote hiking access with low visitor density and natural tranquility
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Meador Creek 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 Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access except for required hunting permits during 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 Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

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

Morgantown
⌖ 3.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morgantown, West Virginia

A lively college town with ample opportunities for outdoor activities amid the scenic Allegheny Mountains.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Westover
⌖ 4.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westover, West Virginia

A peaceful riverside town offering easy access to the Ohio River for paddling and nearby natural areas for hiking and biking.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Albany
⌖ 4.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albany, West Virginia

A quiet rural town offering calm outdoor experiences with close access to state parks and waterways, ideal for travelers seeking fishing, paddling, hiking, and seasonal outdoor activities in southern West Virginia.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Granville
⌖ 5.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Granville, West Virginia

A tranquil Appalachian town offering access to rivers and trails ideal for paddling, hiking, and outdoor relaxation.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Reedsville
⌖ 8.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Reedsville, West Virginia

A quiet rural town offering access to rugged Appalachian landscapes rich with outdoor recreation along the Tygart Valley River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Arthurdale
⌖ 8.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arthurdale, West Virginia

A quiet mountain community offering gentle trails and rich cultural history, perfect for low-key outdoor lovers who appreciate both nature and heritage.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Meador Creek Wildlife Management Area

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

12 bookable experiences

Mountain Music Kids Showcase & Andrew Adkins: Live Appalachian Folk in Arthurdale, WVArthurdale, West Virginia · 8.55 mi away
All Adventures· Arthurdale Heritage, Inc.

Mountain Music Kids Showcase & Andrew Adkins: Live Appalachian Folk in Arthurdale, WV

Spend an evening at Arthurdale’s Center Hall where the Mountain Music Kids showcase their semester’s work before Fayetteville singer-songwriter Andrew Adkins performs songs from Vandalia. Intimate, accessible, and rooted in Appalachian teaching traditions—this is local music worth planning around.

2 hours (7pm–9pm)

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Shakespeare Under the Stars at Arthurdale Heritage: A Midsummer Night's Dream in West VirginiaArthurdale, West Virginia · 8.55 mi away
All Adventures· Arthurdale Heritage, Inc.

Shakespeare Under the Stars at Arthurdale Heritage: A Midsummer Night's Dream in West Virginia

An evening of outdoor theatre and Appalachian air: WV’s only Shakespeare troupe, The Rustic Mechanicals, brings A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Arthurdale Heritage’s woodland amphitheater. Expect fireflies, stone terraces, and a family-friendly 7pm performance on September 11, 2026.

2 hours

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