Public Hunting Land in Michigan

Michigan is a public land powerhouse, offering over 7.4 million acres of land open to hunters across state, federal, and private-access programs. From the Upper Peninsula to southern agricultural zones, hunters can pursue deer, bear, waterfowl, turkey, upland birds, and more throughout Michigan’s rich natural habitats.

Types of Public Land Available in Michigan:

• State Game Areas (SGAs): Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for hunting, wildlife viewing, and conservation.

• State Forests & Parks: Most are open to hunting with general rules and season restrictions.

• Commercial Forest Lands (CFL): Privately owned but open to public hunting under state oversight.

• Federal Lands: Includes National Forests (Hiawatha, Huron-Manistee, Ottawa) and various Corps of Engineers properties near rivers and lakes.

Seasons & Access Info

Michigan hunting is organized by zones and species, with specific regulations for weapon type, antler point restrictions, and permit draws for species like elk and bear.

Key Resources:

• Season Dates & Hunting Digest

• License Sales & Permits

• Draw Info for Bear, Elk, & Limited Hunts

Pro Tip: Southern Michigan offers excellent access to small SGAs near urban areas, while the UP and northern counties offer vast wilderness hunts.

Explore Michigan’s Hunting Lands

Michigan DNR offers detailed mapping tools for all types of public land access:

• Mi-HUNT Interactive Public Land Map

• Public Land Maps

• Commercial Forest Lands Search Tool

Whether you're glassing hardwood ridges for deer or walking swamps for grouse, Michigan’s extensive public lands give hunters room to roam and game to chase.