Hangin’ with the Herd

Elk Management Tours are back at Chief Logan State Park for 2026. 

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This story was originally published in the August / September 2026 issue of Wonderful West Virginia.
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Photographed by Mark Bias

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Tomblin Wildlife Management Area has been the home of West Virginia’s elk population since the 2016 Elk Restoration Project began. Over the past 10 years, the herd has grown, thrived, and multiplied, to the immense pride of WVDNR biologists. While you may catch the elk wandering around outside Tomblin, your best chance to see them is still on the WMA.

Starting and ending at the Chief Logan State Park lodge, the WVDNR’s Elk Management Tours—usually taking place in the early morning or late evening—take visitors on a 2-to-3-mile walk through the area with a park naturalist as their guide in hopes of seeing or hearing members of the herd. Even if the elk don’t make an appearance, seeing the habitat that is housing these majestic animals is an experience all its own.

2026 Elk Tour Dates

Spots for the Elk Management Tours fill up fast, so book your spot while you still can! More information can be found at WVstateparks.com/elk-management-tours-at-chief-logan-state-park.