West Virginia State Wildlife Center

The West Virginia State Wildlife Center is a 338-acre facility set in hardwood forest with a 1.25-mile trail displaying 29 native animal species. The enclosures let animals behave naturally while visitors walk an accessible path to observe them.

The site began in 1923 as a breeding facility called French Creek Game Farm for native wildlife. It became the West Virginia State Wildlife Center in 1986 and has focused on wildlife care and education since then.

French Creek Freddie, the groundhog living here since 1978, holds a special place in the state's tradition by helping predict weather each February. Visitors can observe this local celebrity and understand how wildlife becomes woven into regional customs.

Plan to arrive early and allow time to walk the entire path at a comfortable pace through forest and open areas. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you will spend most of your visit outdoors.

The enclosure design lets visitors watch animals behave naturally without causing stress or interference. This is especially striking when observing predators, where visitors can see hunters and prey coexisting in the same landscape.