Credit: Vern Patterson Fawn at rest

Welcome to Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the nation’s 500th! The Refuge works to preserve the unique wetlands and uplands of this high elevation, moist valley.

You may enjoy the Refuge by participating in wildlife-dependent recreation, including wildlife observation and photography, hunting, fishing, environmental education, and nature programs. The combination of wet soils, forests, shrub lands and open lands throughout the valley provides a diversity of wildlife habitats. In these habitats, some animals, such as deer, raccoon, geese and squirrel are easy to see. Others, such as mink, bobcat and barred owls stay hidden most of the time. Beaver build dams from trees, manipulating water levels to their advantage. Woodcock treat us to their breeding display in spring. Turkey and ruffed grouse provide a challenge for hunters and birders. Over the years, native brook trout in area streams have been joined by other species of trout and bass.

On August 11, 1994, with the purchase of 86 acres the Refuge was established. With the purchase of approximately 12,000 acres in 2002, the Refuge grew to 15,245 acres in size. The Refuge currently is approximately 16,000 acres.