Recreation on White Horse Mountain
Itching to explore a new wilderness within a short driving distance? Then look no further. White Horse Mountain is the newest destination for recreation in the state of West Virginia.
Potomac Conservancy and our local movement saved the mountain from developed and returned this beautiful wilderness to the people as a new public park. Learn more >
Located in Hampshire County along the South Branch of the Potomac River, outdoor enthusiasts can take in all the wild splendors of this 1,700-acre forest. Driving directions. Map >
**IMPORTANT NOTICE: Before planning your excursion on the mountain, please take a moment to review the updated hunting season dates/times here. During active hunting seasons, we advise that you wear blaze orange apparel. For more safety information, contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
Scroll down to discover what activities you can, and can't, do on White Horse Mountain.
Fall 2018:
Update from West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
White Horse Wildlife Management Area was opened for hunting on Sept 1, 2018. As of September 5, 2018, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is waiting for signs to be delivered. The main road going straight up the mountain will remain closed due to heavy wash out. The road to the right after you go through entrance pillars is open for the hunting season.
6 recreation activities you can enjoy on White Horse Mountain
Bird-watching
Bird enthusiasts will fall in love with White Horse, as miles of woods provide plenty of opportunities to spot owls, hawks, warblers, and various other songbirds.
Fishing
Anglers will find that the Potomac River and nearby streams are abundant in smallmouth bass, trout, and catfish.
Check out this handy guide on the best locations to find your favorite fish.
Hiking
Strap on your hiking boots and get ready to explore. With over 1,700 acres of land, White Horse Mountain is the ideal location for day hikers to explore various trails.
Please remember that as you explore the forests, hunters may also be enjoying the same space. Take caution by wearing brightly-colored clothing and checking hunting season information prior to heading into the woods.
Horse-back riding (roads only)
Horse-back riding is a great way for both you and your horse to spend the day outdoors. Riders will be permitted on the main roads throughout White Horse Mountain.
Riding off roads or on trails is prohibited.
Hunting
White Horse Mountain was opened for hunting on September 1, 2018. Hunters can access the mountain via the main road or a side road located directly past the entrance pillars to the right.
Before heading out to White Horse, please review all current hunting regulations and season dates/times on the West Virginia DNR website. We advise that visitors wear blaze orange apparel during active hunting seasons.
Mountain-biking (roads only)
Non-motorized bikes are allowed on White Horse Mountain. Grab your bike and take in the breath-taking sights of White Horse as you ride along the main roads throughout the mountain.
Bicyclists are not permitted off roads or on the trails of White Horse Mountain.
Activities that are NOT permitted at White Horse Mountain
Camping
If you're looking to spend a night under starry skies, this is not the place to go. Camping is strictly prohibited at White Horse Mountain.
No need to fret, however. There are dozens of amazing campsites across the state of West Virginia. Find the location that's right for you here.
Motorized Recreation
White Horse Mountain is a conservation easement dedicated to protecting land, trails, and waters for wildlife habitat. Therefore, motorized vehicles are not permitted on any of the trails throughout White Horse Mountain. This includes ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes.
Just when you thought White Horse Mountain couldn't get any better . . . Learn about Rock Dome Preserve, home to habitat and wildflowers that rarely found anywhere else in the world!