Best Time to See Squirrels in West Virginia
April, May and June is the best time to see squirrels in West Virginia. Based on 3,015 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when squirrels are most active across the year in West Virginia.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
3,015 verified observations of squirrels in West Virginia, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.
When squirrels are recorded in West Virginia
Peak month
April
526 records (17.4% of the year)
| Month | Observations | Share |
|---|---|---|
| January | 103 | 3.4% |
| February | 149 | 4.9% |
| March | 342 | 11.3% |
| Aprilpeak | 526 | 17.4% |
| Maypeak | 372 | 12.3% |
| Junepeak | 367 | 12.2% |
| July | 179 | 5.9% |
| August | 185 | 6.1% |
| September | 258 | 8.6% |
| October | 295 | 9.8% |
| November | 156 | 5.2% |
| December | 83 | 2.8% |
Squirrels you are most likely to see
| Species | Verified observations |
|---|---|
| Eastern Gray Squirrel | 1,109 |
| Groundhog | 675 |
| Eastern Chipmunk | 595 |
| Eastern Fox Squirrel | 310 |
| American Red Squirrel | 194 |
| Southern Flying Squirrel | 61 |
| Northern Flying Squirrel | 2 |
Sightings of squirrels in West Virginia peak in April, when 526 of the year's 3,015 verified observations are logged — about 17.4% of the annual total. Activity stays high through April, May and June.
The quietest stretch is December and January, when squirrels are hardest to find — December sees just 83 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.
The squirrels you are most likely to encounter in West Virginia are Eastern Gray Squirrel, Groundhog and Eastern Chipmunk — the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.
Where to go
Best places to see squirrels in West Virginia
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail — National Scenic Trail
- Bluestone National Scenic River — National Scenic River
- Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park — National Historical Park
- Chesapeake Bay
- Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail — National Historic Trail
- New River Gorge National Park & Preserve — National Park & Preserve
Plan your squirrel trip in West Virginia
Start with live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail, then compare a nearby stay and a broader wildlife backup before you lock in the trip.
GetYourGuide
Live tours nearbySee live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Use the live GetYourGuide widget to compare local departures and activity styles close to the main squirrel viewing area.
Booking.com
Stay nearbyStay near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Compare hotels, cabins and lodges close to the best squirrel viewing area in West Virginia.
Viator
Broader backupBook a squirrel tour in West Virginia
Compare guided wildlife tours, boat trips and nature experiences if you want a second travel network beyond the live widget.
Gear to see them
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to see squirrels in West Virginia?+
April is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through April, May and June, based on 3,015 verified iNaturalist observations.
When are squirrels hardest to see in West Virginia?+
December is the quietest month for squirrels in West Virginia, with only 83 verified records.
Are squirrels active year-round in West Virginia?+
Squirrels are recorded in 12 of 12 months in West Virginia, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in April.