Berwind Lake is a small, scenic mountain lake in the far southern coalfields of West Virginia – the centerpiece of the Berwind Lake Wildlife Management Area in McDowell County, near the Virginia border. Quiet and out of the way, this little 20-acre lake is a peaceful spot for bass and bluegill fishing, picnicking and a swim, tucked into some of the most remote and rugged country in the state.
This guide covers Berwind Lake: the fishing, the WMA, and access. It’s part of our growing West Virginia Lakes Database.
Berwind Lake at a glance
- Surface area: ~20 acres in the Berwind Lake Wildlife Management Area
- Location: McDowell County, far southern West Virginia (near War, by the Virginia line)
- Top fish: largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish
Fishing Berwind Lake
Berwind is a pleasant small-lake fishery for largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish. A West Virginia fishing license is required. The small size and easy bank access make it a relaxed, family-friendly place to fish, and the quiet setting means you’ll rarely be crowded.
The WMA and recreation
The surrounding Berwind Lake Wildlife Management Area offers a swimming area, picnic shelters, hiking and hunting in the steep, forested McDowell County hills. It’s a green oasis in the heart of the southern coalfields, a long-standing local recreation spot for fishing, swimming and family outings far from the bustle.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Berwind Lake is near War in McDowell County, far southern West Virginia, close to the Virginia line. This is remote coalfields country; Welch and the Hatfield-McCoy Trails are the nearest regional draws, so come prepared with supplies.
Know before you go
- Fishing license: a West Virginia license is required.
- Remote: deep in the southern coalfields – limited services, come self-sufficient.
- Best seasons: spring through fall for bass and panfish; summer for swimming and picnicking.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Berwind Lake?
Largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish.
Where is Berwind Lake?
Near War in McDowell County, far southern West Virginia, close to the Virginia border.
Related: explore the small lakes of West Virginia, or head back to the West Virginia Lakes Database.
