West Virginia Gun Laws: How Do State Laws Apply in Tourist Areas?

In West Virginia, there are many parks and forests that attract tourists to the area on a regular basis. Laws allowing the carrying of a firearm in these areas are limited to valid concealed handgun license or permit holders only.

Where the West Virginia Concealed Handgun license is recognized statewide, out-of-state permit holders need to be familiar whether or not their state has reciprocity with West Virginia, in which there is a mutual recognition between the two states to recognize each other’s permits. Currently, West Virginia reciprocates with 35 other states.

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While traveling in a motor vehicle, a person without a valid permit recognized in West Virginia must have the handgun in plain view and unloaded. The term “unloaded” in West Virginia includes having a loaded magazine not in or attached to the firearm.

Visitors should be mindful that if they are carrying an unconcealed handgun and are stopped by a law enforcement officer, the presence of the handgun may attract attention. A visitor may choose to comply with the Federal law of having the unloaded firearm in a locked container not readily accessible by any of the occupants (excluding the glove box or console) such as the trunk, completely separated from ammunition.

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In West Virginia, parks and forests are regulated by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. A person who possesses a valid concealed handgun license or permit may carry a concealed handgun while hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, or in a motor vehicle for self-defense only.

If you enter a property in which the owner, or person who is in legal control of the premises or property, asks you to leave the premises, you must leave. Failure to do so may result in trespassing charges.

It is unlawful, however, for any person to bring a firearm upon the state capitol complex, including inside the building and the grounds.

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