Islands. When you hear the word, what locations around the world spring to mind? While we're sure the answers will vary, we feel pretty safe in saying there's one place that won't be on the list: West Virginia. But maybe it should; would you believe that one of West Virginia's many excellent wildlife refuges is comprised of 22 islands? Because it's absolutely true, and these beautiful, remote Ohio River islands are just begging to be explored on your next outdoor adventure.

Start your exploration of this unique area at the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center located at 3982 Waverly Road in Williamstown, West Virginia.

Featuring informative exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and a huge aquarium of native fish, the visitor center is a fun stop for the whole family.

At the center, you'll learn that the refuge stretches along 362 miles of the Ohio River, encompassing 22 islands from three states (18 of the islands are in West Virginia).

You'll also hear about the mission of the refuge, to preserve and protect the unique Ohio River floodplain habitat and all who live there, especially migratory birds...

...and freshwater mussels.

You'll get more information on all the activities available on refuge lands, including hiking, boating, hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, and environmental education.

If you're interested, you can also learn some history of the area. Historically, many of these Ohio River islands were sites for oil wells. Some of them were also farmed.

At the time this photo was taken, before roller dams were put into the river to keep it accessible to barges year round, the Ohio would become so shallow during the summer in places that it could be forded easily by wagon - no bridge required.

Another historic use of these river lands was for harvesting mussels to make buttons for the St. Mary's Button Factory. Here, workers stand in front of a pile of discarded mussel shells.

Today, one of the best ways to explore the entirety of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge is by kayak.

Particularly popular is kayaking to one of the many amazing, secluded beaches that several of the islands feature. Who knew that you could have a remote beach vacation right here in the Mountain State?!

Even without a kayak, you can experience a portion of this wildlife refuge with a drive to one of the bridge-accessible islands: Middle Island near St. Marys, West Virginia, where you can enjoy a handful of excellent birding and hiking trails.

Have you taken the opportunity to visit all or part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge? Learn more and plan your visit by heading over to their website. You can also follow the refuge on Facebook, and you'll want to if you love pictures of native West Virginia wildlife!

Did you know that there are even more islands in West Virginia than this group of islands in the Ohio River? And you can even spend the night on one.