As a state dominated by rural, mountainous terrain, it should come as no surprise that West Virginia boasts more than her fair share of beautiful state forests and wildlife management areas. As avid nature lovers, we’re thankful for them, and for the work that various state departments put into maintaining these beautiful areas of Appalachia, preserving them for our enjoyment and hopefully for the enjoyment of many generations to come! And one of the lesser known gems among these stunning state land tracts is Panther Wildlife Management Area in McDowell County.

Once upon a time, fierce wildcats roamed the wilds of West Virginia. Cougars, bobcats, and even the ancient saber-toothed cat, if fossil evidence be believed. Now, though, it's exceedingly uncommon to encounter a wild cat in the forest. Pretty much all that remains of their legacy in West Virginia are a few names hearkening back to old times, including Panther, the creek; Panther, the town; and Panther, the state forest.
National Park Service/Wikipedia
Tucked away in the southernmost regions of West Virginia, in McDowell County, is a quiet forest that provides the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
WV State Parks
Welcome to Panther Wildlife Management Area, otherwise known as Panther State Forest.
Panther State Forest/Google Maps

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The beautiful Panther Creek runs through the forest, offering calming sights and sounds year round and a few good swimming holes in the summer months.
Panther State Forest/Google Maps
(It is said that Panther Creek got its name because an early pioneer killed a panther along its banks. The names of Panther-the-town and Panther-the-forest followed.)
And with plenty of picnic areas, hiking trails, bathrooms, and even a playground, Panther State Forest is a great spot for the whole family to spend a day reveling in nature.
Panther State Forest/Google Maps
Have you visited Panther Wildlife Management Area before (a.k.a. Panther State Forest)? What do you love most about the time you spent there?
Google Maps/Panther State Forest

Panther Wildlife Management Area is located at 239 Ostenaco Road in Panther, West Virginia. You can learn more about the activities available at this state forest by visiting the West Virginia State Parks website here.

Those ancient West Virginian saber-toothed tigers we mentioned earlier? You can learn more about them here.

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Panther State Forest, West Virginia 24872, USA