WVDNR Completes Over $1.2 Million in Upgrades at Plum Orchard Lake WMA

Significant infrastructure investments improve public access and lake facilities in Fayette County

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced

the completion of more than $1.2 million in infrastructure upgrades at the Plum Orchard Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA). The project represents a major step in the agency’s multi-year effort to modernize facility standards and address longstanding community concerns regarding the lake’s accessibility and amenities.

The centerpiece of the improvements is a new $1.16 million WMA headquarters, designed to serve as a central hub for management operations and public assistance. To improve the experience for boaters and anglers, the agency also invested approximately $24,000 in the installation of new courtesy docks at the primary launch, the dam and the lake’s upper end, a project that was announced and completed in 2024.

In addition to the new headquarters and docks, crews resurfaced the accessible fishing pier near the dam, cleared overgrown brush and added riprap to mitigate shoreline erosion. Further enhancements include updated parking lot lighting for safety, improved road drainage and new signage throughout the management area.

“These upgrades are a reflection of our commitment to being good stewards of West Virginia’s natural resources while ensuring that our facilities meet the expectations of our hunters and anglers,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Plum Orchard Lake is a vital asset for Fayette County and by investing in this infrastructure, we are ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy this area for years to come.”

Plum Orchard Lake offers a premier outdoor escape for sports enthusiasts. Anglers can target trophy-sized largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish, while the surrounding WMA provides hunting opportunities for deer, bear, turkey, waterfowl and squirrels.

Located off I-77 near Pax, W.Va., Plum Orchard Lake WMA is a 20-minute drive from Beckley. While the WMA offers primitive on-site camping, additional cabins and campsites are available at the nearby Babcock State Park.

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