Public Turkey Hunting Opportunities by State
Find the best public land turkey hunting across the U.S. Use this state-by-state guide to explore access, habitat, and seasonal highlights.
Missouri is often considered the heart of turkey country. Its conservation areas and state forests provide excellent public access and healthy Eastern turkey populations.
Known for abundant Rio Grande and hybrid turkeys, Kansas offers public hunting on WIHA (walk-in hunting access) and state-managed areas.
Georgia has one of the longest spring seasons in the Southeast. WMAs throughout the state offer prime Eastern turkey hunting.
Tennessee’s public lands host strong Eastern turkey numbers. Some areas use quota systems for access during early spring hunts.
Alabama is a top destination for hard-gobbling Eastern turkeys. The state offers generous public access through WMAs and national forests.
Florida is the only state with Osceola turkeys — highly sought-after for Grand Slam hunters. Public land tags are limited and require planning.
Texas is home to Rio Grande turkeys and offers public access through its APH permit program. Focus on the western half of the state for best results.
With millions of public acres and strong gobbler numbers, Pennsylvania is a staple state for spring turkey hunters across the Northeast.
Oklahoma offers a mix of Eastern, Rio Grande, and hybrid birds. WMAs and walk-in access programs provide public hunting options statewide.
One of the few states with all three major turkey subspecies. Public access is solid via WMAs, NGPC-managed lands, and Open Fields and Waters programs.