Oklahoma is a state that is well-known for its diverse hunting opportunities. From the rolling hills of the eastern region to the expansive prairies in the west, Oklahoma has a variety of habitats that attract a wide range of game animals. With an abundance of public lands, Oklahoma is an excellent place to hunt, whether you are a novice or an experienced hunter. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best places to hunt in Oklahoma.
- Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Located in southwestern Oklahoma, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a vast area of over 59,000 acres that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The refuge is home to several species of big game animals, including bison, elk, and white-tailed deer. There are also ample opportunities to hunt smaller game like turkey, quail, and rabbits. The refuge offers both archery and rifle hunting opportunities, but the number of permits available is limited, so it’s essential to plan well in advance.
- Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area
Honobia Creek Wildlife Management Area is located in southeastern Oklahoma, near the Arkansas border. The area covers over 120,000 acres and is home to a wide range of game animals, including deer, turkey, and wild hogs. The area is known for its dense forests, which provide ample cover for game animals, making it an excellent place for bow hunting. The area also has a limited number of rifle hunting opportunities.
- Osage Wildlife Management Area
Located in northeastern Oklahoma, the Osage Wildlife Management Area covers over 31,000 acres and is home to several species of big game animals, including elk, white-tailed deer, and black bears. The area also has ample opportunities to hunt smaller game like turkey, quail, and rabbits. The area is known for its rolling hills and dense forests, which provide excellent cover for game animals. The area is open for both archery and rifle hunting.
- Ouachita National Forest
The Ouachita National Forest is located in southeastern Oklahoma, near the Arkansas border. The forest covers over 1.8 million acres and is home to several species of game animals, including deer, turkey, and black bears. The area also has ample opportunities to hunt smaller game like squirrels and rabbits. The forest provides ample cover for game animals, making it an excellent place for bow hunting. The area is open for both archery and rifle hunting.
- Optima National Wildlife Refuge
Located in the western panhandle of Oklahoma, the Optima National Wildlife Refuge covers over 13,000 acres and is home to several species of game animals, including white-tailed deer, wild hogs, and pronghorns. The area is known for its expansive prairies and rolling hills, making it an excellent place for rifle hunting. The area also has limited opportunities for archery hunting.
Oklahoma is a state that offers a wide range of hunting opportunities. With its vast public lands and diverse habitats, Oklahoma is an excellent place to hunt, whether you are a novice or an experienced hunter. From the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in the southwest to the Optima National Wildlife Refuge in the western panhandle, there are plenty of places to explore and hunt in Oklahoma.
