Kimball Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Kimball Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located in McDowell County in southern West Virginia. Encompassing a rugged landscape of hills and forested valleys, this area covers approximately 1,021 acres primarily managed for wildlife conservation and public hunting. The terrain consists of mixed hardwood forests, brush fields, and small openings that serve as prime habitat for deer, wild turkey, grouse, and small game species. Kimball WMA plays a crucial role in regional wildlife management by providing habitat diversity in an area historically impacted by coal mining activity. Visitors can explore several unmarked trails and roads that offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and birdwatching. The area is particularly popular during hunting seasons in the fall and winter, with managed hunts for deer, turkey, and small game. While there are no developed campgrounds within Kimball WMA, surrounding communities offer lodging and camping options. The area's remote setting and rugged landscape appeal to outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience quiet backcountry recreation. Access is generally via secondary roads off state highways, and visitors should prepare for primitive conditions in this undeveloped public land. The WMA is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, which provides regulations and updates on hunting seasons and wildlife populations. Overall, Kimball Wildlife Management Area provides an important green space in Appalachia that supports wildlife conservation goals and offers outdoor recreation opportunities in a less trafficked, natural setting.