The best camping near Bluestone Wildlife Management Area

Bluestone Wildlife Management Area is the antidote for summer blues. Get out of that cubicle and hit up these 17,632 acres of land and lake. Boat, fish or canoe until you’re as wrinkled as a prune, and then head into the great green wilderness for some hiking or horseback riding. A visit to Bluestone WMA is practically a destination wedding between water and woods—you’ll quickly fall in love with this easygoing swath of wilderness. Trout fishing doesn’t get much better than the stocked Indian Creek, and Bluestone’s WMA status allows hunting in the area if that’s your cup of iced tea. You’ll only find one body of water bigger than Bluestone Lake in all of West Virginia, so take advantage of this ocean of freshwater with a long day in the boat. When the sun has set and so must you, head to one of 330 campsites for a night in the quiet woods. In a place this big, the only friends you make might be trout!

The ideal time to visit Bluestone Wildlife Management Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth and a full bloom of flora, but also the busiest season. Winters can be harsh, with some areas less accessible, making it less ideal for a visit.

• Check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions when planning your visit.
• Be aware of local wildlife and follow guidelines to ensure your safety and their protection.
• Some areas may have limited accessibility, so verify the open trails and facilities before you go.
• Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
• For any inquiries or assistance, visitor centers are typically open from 8:30am to 5pm.