Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area

Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, covers over 23,000 acres of rugged hills, mature hardwood forests, and mixed conifer stands. The area is characterized by two man-made reservoirs—Sleepy Creek Lake and Franklin Pond—that provide critical aquatic habitats and popular fishing locations. The landscape supports a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and diverse songbird populations. Originally managed primarily for hunting and trapping, the WMA has evolved into a multifaceted outdoor recreation destination with multiple trail systems for hiking and mountain biking, primitive camping areas, and abundant wildlife watching opportunities. The topography offers scenic vistas atop ridges and overlooks that stretch over the valleys below, attracting both casual visitors and avid outdoors enthusiasts. In addition to the water bodies, Sleepy Creek offers access to remote, quieter areas that are ideal for solitude and nature photography. Visitors also enjoy seasonal activities such as trout fishing in stocked waters and bow hunting for deer and small game. Preservation of habitat and sustainable management practices ensure Sleepy Creek remains a vital corridor for native wildlife and an important green space for public enjoyment within Berkeley and Morgan counties. The area’s combination of forest, wetland, and aquatic environments supports biodiversity and provides outdoor experiences year-round.