Brush Fork Wildlife Management Area Adventures
Brush Fork Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats supporting abundant game species and provides excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, and birdwatching in southern West Virginia.
About Brush Fork Wildlife Management Area
Brush Fork Wildlife Management Area is a protected region located in Mercer County, West Virginia. Covering a blend of forested ridges, steep hillsides, and aquatic habitats along Brush Fork Creek, this area provides an important refuge for wildlife and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The terrain is dominated by mixed hardwood forests including oak, hickory, and maple, which support populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and various small game species. The area is well-regarded for hunting, especially during deer and turkey seasons, as well as for fishing in its streams and ponds, which are home to native trout and warmwater species. Birdwatchers visit Brush Fork WMA to observe migratory songbirds and raptors. Though there are no developed campgrounds within the WMA boundaries, visitors may find dispersed primitive camping opportunities nearby on public lands. Hiking and wildlife viewing are popular activities, with unmarked trails and old logging roads providing access. The area’s history reflects West Virginia’s coal and logging past, with remnants of old infrastructure still evident. Its natural resources are managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) to balance recreational use with habitat preservation. Brush Fork WMA appeals to hunters, anglers, and nature observers seeking a quiet, less developed setting with a focus on wildlife and wildland experiences.
Highlights
Brush Fork Creek – A prime trout and warmwater fishing stream
Diverse hardwood forests supporting abundant wildlife
Excellent seasonal hunting for white-tailed deer and wild turkey
Quiet forests with limited development offering solitude for wildlife viewing
Notable Natural Features
Brush Fork Creek
A perennial stream running through the area supporting trout populations and providing critical riparian habitat.
Mixed Hardwood Forest
Mature oak, hickory, and maple forests that sustain a wide range of game and non-game wildlife species.
Old Logging Roads
Historical pathways offering access throughout the WMA, now serving as informal hiking and hunting routes.