Martin Banks 02.07.24
Finding reliable hunting hot spots is crucial to getting your money’s worth from your trip. However, prominent locations may be dependable for many others, too, leading to overcrowding and less availability. Where can you go in the U.S. to beat the crowds and still have a fruitful trip? Here are five lesser-known hunting spots in the country.
Hunting Coverage on AllOutdoor
#1 Hunting Hot Spots – Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge
Louisiana might not be the first state you imagine for hunting, but the southeast region brings excellent opportunities. About 30 miles west of Baton Rouge, you’ll find Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge and 15,000 acres of public hunting land. This area is ideal for late fall and winter hunts because of the mild temperatures throughout the various hunting seasons.
Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge is unique because of its diverse wildlife, including deer, turkey, rabbit, gallinules and woodcocks. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says woodcocks winter in Louisiana more than any southern state, making it an excellent opportunity for hunting. Before heading to Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge, follow all Louisiana hunting regulations. All hunters 16–60 years old must have a Wild Louisiana Stamp or an appropriate license.
#2 Hunting Hot Spots – Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
Like Louisiana, South Carolina doesn’t typically top a hunter’s list for preferred destinations. However, you can use that to your advantage for hunting spots with less foot traffic and more wildlife opportunities. For example, near the Atlantic Coast, you’ll see Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. This recreational area encompasses about 55,000 acres of wetlands and forests for your hunting delight.
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge is new, so visitors have minimal foot and canoe trails. This feature makes it a unique challenge for hunters, as you’ll have to rely on your navigation skills. The lands are prominent for deer and hogs, with the state permitting hog hunting in any deer season. South Carolina also allows night vision technology, so take advantage of the regulations for a fun hunting experience. Hunters should know South Carolina requires non-residents to purchase a hunting permit and a big game permit, which you can obtain from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
#3 Hunting Hot Spots – Elliott Barker Wildlife Area
The eastern half of the United States provides ample forests and hunting lands, but you can trek to the Wild West and find excellent lesser-known spots. New Mexico is one of the underrated destinations because of its diverse terrain and wildlife, such as bull elk and mule deer. Hunters seeking trophy elk should travel to sites like the Elliott Barker Wildlife Area in the north part of the state, just east of Carson National Forest.
It has over 5,000 acres of hunting land with deer, elk, bear, turkey and small game available to hunters. New Mexico initially designated this area in 1966 to protect the deer and elk habitat due to their vulnerability. Now, the remote location is ideal for those wanting to explore without an influx of crowds, or a solid option for bug-out locations and doomsday hideaways. New Mexico is a more complex state for obtaining a hunting license, so non-residents should prepare not to receive a draw license in a given year.
#4 Hunting Hot Spots – Coyote Bluff Estate
Another terrific Western state for hunting is Montana – although The Treasure State is on plenty of radars for excellent hunting spots. The vast landmass and low population density mean the outdoor opportunities are far and wide. How can you beat the crowds, considering many come to Montana to hunt bison, antelope and black bears?
Head to Coyote Bluff Estate on the north end of Flathead Lake. It provides a customizable hunting experience, as you can select guided hunting and fishing tours or view the area up high from a helicopter. After hunting, you get luxury accommodations for your lodging. Non-residents wanting to hunt in Montana must apply for a conservation license, a base hunting license fee and special licenses for the animals they hunt.
#5 Hunting Hot Spots – Harpole’s Heartland Lodge
The Midwest is an underrated hunting spot if you look in the right places. For instance, Illinois is an excellent location for whitetail deer hunting. The abundant deer population makes it a solid destination for taking children on their first hunt, as they may get the first kill they’ve been waiting on. Harpole’s Heartland Lodge is a favorite for those in the Midwest looking for a hunting getaway, as you’ll find plenty of whitetail deer, quail and pheasants around Pike County. Additionally, the lodge has cabins, ATV rentals, guided fishing trips and other fun activities. Out-of-state visitors must obtain a non-resident hunting license from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources before heading into the woods
Finding High-Quality Hunting Grounds
Hunting is a tried and true American pastime, with millions participating annually. Some spots can get too crowded, so check out these five lesser-known destinations and get a worthwhile experience.
