About This Park
A peaceful 250-acre park with a 500-acre wildlife management area, Moncove Lake State Park is a favorite setting for outdoor gatherings, camping and water recreation. The park has excellent fishing opportunities and offers seasonal rowboat, kayak and paddleboat rentals. Its proximity to Peter’s Mountain and the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains make Moncove Lake a birding hot spot — more than 160 species can be seen in the area.
Note: Beginning on August 11, 2024, the swimming pool will be open only on weekends for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Contact
- Phone: 304-772-3450
- Email: moncovelakesp@wv.gov
- Address: 695 Moncove Lake Access Rd, Gap Mills, WV 24941
History
The Moncove Lake area was established in 1960, following the damming of Devil Creek in eastern Monroe County. The lake was built as part of the Moncove Lake Hunting and Fishing Area. In 1991, 250 acres were set aside as a state park. The remainder of the land continues to be managed as a wildlife management area.
Additional Information
Picnicking
Moncove Lake State Park is a great spot for a picnic! Three picnic shelters take reservations which can be made by calling the park office. There are also picnic areas for groups of varying sizes with grills and tables at each area and restroom facilities, water nearby and two playground areas in the picnic area.
Bird Watching
More than 160 species of birds have been seen around Moncove Lake. The area is a birding hot spot due to nearby Peter’s Mountain and the ridge-and-valley section of the Appalachian Mountains. These ridges act as funnels for birds migrating in the fall and present excellent chances to glimpse birds that are considered rare or unusual for this region. On Peter’s Mountain during peak days in September, Broad Winged hawks are counted by the hundreds, and migrating hawks of nearly every eastern species and numerous songbirds can be seen throughout the month of September and into October. Witness the annual migration of birds of prey as they travel the eastern flyway passing through Monroe County, WV. Migration typically begins in early September through October, however, late September usually brings the most sightings.
Trails
Download Park Trail MapDevil's Creek Trail
Diamond Hollow Trail
Roxalia Springs Trail
Grouse Knoll Trail
Nearby Attractions
ALLEGHENY TRAIL (ALT)
The Allegheny Trail is a 311-mile north-south trail with its northern terminus on the Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania-West Virginia border near Bruceton Mills. It wends its way south until it meets the Appalachian Trail on Peters Mountain at the Virginia-West Virginia border. Founded in 1972 by the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association, this trail is also known as the ALT. To learn more about the ALT, click here.
Greenbrier State Forest
Located in the southeastern corner of the state near the border of Virginia, Greenbrier State Forest provides over 5,100 acres of heavily forested, mountainous terrain for outdoor recreation, including cabins, campsites, a shooting range and trails.
Greenbrier River Trail
The Greenbrier River Trail is a 78-mile long trail popular for hiking, bicycling, backpacking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. It closely mirrors its namesake, the Greenbrier River. These views can’t be missed!
Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory
High atop Peter’s Mountain in Monroe County is Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory. It was originally an old fire tower, built in 1956, but now is one of the best spots to view migrating birds of prey.
Historic Lewisburg
History buffs will enjoy seeing this national historic district with buildings and landmarks that date back more than 200 years! Great local shops and dining spot make this a must-see town.
Lost World Caverns
Lost World Caverns, an underground wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites and other underground formations, is sure to evoke your sense of wonder and amazement.
Organ Cave
Organ Cave, a national historic and national landmark, is a privately-operated attraction that offers underground views of fascinating rock formations and prehistoric fossils.
Old Rehoboth Church and Museum
This historic log cabin-style church in the countryside of Monroe County dates back to 1785. It’s claim to fame is the oldest existing church building in West Virginia!
The Greenbrier
“America’s Resort” has been a cherished getaway since 1778. A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier is famous for its mineral springs, championship golf, boutiques, fine dining, and recreational activities.