Panther State Forest: Vital Outdoor Resource for McDowell County Health

Panther State Forest and the attached Panther Wildlife Management Area form a major public natural asset for McDowell County, offering thousands of acres of woods, trails, picnic areas, a small campground and a 60-person group camp. Co-managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (Wildlife Resources) and Parks and Recreation, the area serves multiple roles: outdoor recreation, habitat conservation and a community gathering place for residents who hunt, fish, hike and camp.

The forest’s trails and day-use facilities provide low-cost opportunities for exercise and outdoor time, which are linked to reduced chronic disease risk and improved mental health. Hunting and fishing allowed in the wildlife management area also remain important cultural practices in rural counties, supporting food access for families who rely on wild game and local catch. The 60-person group camp offers space for community events, school outings and organized programs that can bolster social connections and resilience.

Public health benefits are not automatic. Access matters. Transportation to rural recreation areas, trail and facility maintenance, clear signage and inclusive amenities determine who can use Panther’s resources. For many residents, particularly those without reliable transportation or with limited mobility, proximity alone does not translate to equitable access. Ensuring ADA-accessible trails, safe parking, and outreach about permits and programs would help more households take advantage of the forest’s health-promoting features.

From an environmental health perspective, Panther State Forest contributes to regional biodiversity and watershed protection, which in turn supports community well-being. Co-management by state wildlife and parks agencies creates an opportunity to align conservation goals with public health initiatives—such as outdoor prescription programs, youth outreach, and community-based stewardship—that increase use while protecting habitat.

Sustaining Panther’s role in McDowell County will require attention from policymakers and local partners. Continued funding for maintenance, coordinated transportation or shuttle options, and partnerships between health providers, schools and recreation managers can expand equitable access. Community leaders and state agencies can also use the group camp and day-use facilities for health-oriented programming that addresses isolation, physical inactivity and youth engagement.

Panther State Forest is more than a scenic landmark; it is an active health and social resource for McDowell County. Preserving and improving access to this public land should be considered part of local health and equity strategies, ensuring that the benefits of outdoor recreation and healthy ecosystems are available to all residents.