Public Hunting Land in Ohio

Ohio may be known for agriculture and big bucks on private land, but it also offers over 700,000 acres of public land open to hunting. With whitetail deer, turkey, small game, and even waterfowl accessible across state forests, wildlife areas, and lake shorelines, Ohio provides solid access for both local and traveling hunters.

Types of Public Land Available in Ohio:

• Wildlife Areas: Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), these are open for regulated hunting across various habitats.

• State Forests & Parks: Most allow public hunting in designated zones during open seasons.

• Public Access Hunting Areas (PAHAs): Privately owned lands enrolled in public hunting programs, often adjacent to agricultural tracts.

• Federal Lands: Includes areas managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Wayne National Forest.

Seasons & Access Info

Ohio hunting seasons vary by species, method, and zone. Special permits may be required for controlled hunts or waterfowl areas.

Key Resources:

• Season Dates & Regulations

• License Sales & Permits

• Controlled Hunts & Lottery Info

Pro Tip: Ohio offers late muzzleloader seasons and high-density antlerless harvest zones on public land, which are great for filling the freezer post-rut.

Explore Hunting Access in Ohio

ODNR provides detailed maps and interactive tools to help hunters locate and explore public access areas:

• Interactive Public Hunting Map

• Wildlife Area PDFs & Regulations

• OLHAP & Controlled Hunt Area Tools

Whether you're stalking ridgelines in southeastern Ohio or walking corn stubble for pheasants, the state’s public lands offer convenient, well-managed access for hunters of all styles.