Roberts Field Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Roberts Field Wildlife Management Area spans approximately 1,100 acres in Raleigh County, West Virginia, situated near the community of Sophia. The area is primarily composed of upland fields, mixed hardwood forests, and riparian zones along small streams. This varied landscape supports a range of game species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, small game, and waterfowl, making it a popular destination for hunters during designated seasons. The WMA is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources with a focus on maintaining and enhancing wildlife habitat through active land management practices such as controlled burns and selective timber harvesting. Trails in Roberts Field WMA offer moderate hiking and provide visitors opportunities to observe seasonal migration birds, native plants, and various mammals in a relatively undisturbed setting. The area's history reflects its past agricultural use, with some fields reverting to natural cover, contributing to patchy habitats beneficial for wildlife diversity. Visitors appreciate the solitude of this area compared to larger, more developed public lands, and it is favored by birdwatchers looking for species like eastern meadowlarks, bobwhite quail, and ruffed grouse. Access is relatively straightforward, with parking areas and trailheads easily reachable via local roads. Roberts Field WMA is an inviting destination for naturalists, hunters, photographers, and hikers seeking a quieter, less crowded outdoor experience in southern West Virginia.