Lake Gaston Wildlife Management Area Adventures

The Lake Gaston Wildlife Management Area (WMA) spans over 11,383 acres across Halifax County in North Carolina and Brunswick County in Virginia, surrounding the man-made Lake Gaston formed by the damming of the Roanoke River. This WMA is managed jointly by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. The area features a mixture of forested uplands, hardwood bottomlands, wetlands, and open water, supporting diverse wildlife species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and various fish species. The lake itself is renowned for its excellent fishing, especially for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Visitors to the WMA enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hunting during designated seasons, wildlife viewing year-round, and boating or paddle sports on Lake Gaston’s expansive waters. The WMA's extensive shoreline and internal forest roads provide access for both beginner and experienced hunters and anglers. There are no formal developed campgrounds inside the WMA, but dispersed primitive camping and day-use access points are available. The landscape also supports migratory birds which attract bird watchers during spring and fall migrations. The WMA's history ties closely to regional hydroelectric development and subsequent conservation efforts to balance recreational use and wildlife habitat preservation. This area appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a combination of water-based activities and terrestrial wildlife experiences in a tranquil setting away from heavy urbanization.