Top Hunting Places in Arlington Heights, Illinois

June 17, 2025

When it comes to outdoor adventures, Arlington Heights, Illinois, is more than a scenic suburb—it’s a gateway to some of the finest hunting grounds in Northern Illinois. Nestled in Cook County, this vibrant village offers proximity to rich wildlife habitats, well-managed game preserves, and public hunting lands that cater to both seasoned hunters and beginners alike.

Whether you're hunting whitetail deer, pheasant, wild turkey, or waterfowl, Arlington Heights gives you access to an array of nearby spots that are ideal for your next hunting trip.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Arlington Heights

1. Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area

Located about an hour southwest of Arlington Heights, Des Plaines SFWA offers over 5,000 acres of huntable land. It’s a haven for archery deer hunting, upland game, and waterfowl. The area features managed food plots and wetlands, boosting your chances of a successful harvest.

Game Available: Deer, pheasant, squirrel, duck, and geese
Hunting Seasons: Follows Illinois DNR schedule
Permit Required: Yes (Site-specific and hunting license)

2. Kankakee River State Park

A slightly longer drive, but absolutely worth the trip for the dense hardwood forests and river bottomlands. Hunters frequent this location for white-tailed deer, especially during archery season. Upland game hunting is also popular here.

Game Available: Deer, turkey, rabbit, raccoon
Hunting Type: Walk-in only, no hunting stands allowed
Unique Feature: Access to river habitats for waterfowl

3. Chain O’Lakes State Park

This massive park in nearby Lake and McHenry counties is known for its diverse terrain, ranging from wetlands to woodlands. The hunting zones are clearly marked and managed, offering excellent opportunities during peak seasons.

Game Available: Deer, turkey, pheasant
Archery Only Areas: For safety and population control
Bonus: Great spot for combining hunting and fishing trips

Private Hunting Clubs & Preserves Near Arlington Heights

For hunters who prefer more controlled environments and guided services, private hunting clubs offer a premium experience.

1. Northbrook Sports Club

Just north of Arlington Heights, Northbrook Sports Club is a premier destination for trap shooting, skeet, and hunting training. While not a full hunting preserve, it is a vital part of preparing for the season.

Facilities Include: Multiple trap fields, 5-stand, and rifle ranges
Membership: Required; excellent for skill improvement

2. Bull Valley Hunt Club

Located about 45 minutes northwest, Bull Valley Hunt Club offers pheasant hunting, dog training, and guided hunts across manicured fields. It's perfect for those looking to train retrievers or enjoy an easy-access upland game hunt.

Game Available: Pheasant, chukar, quail
Open Season: October through March
Add-ons: Private guide, field lunch, dog rentals

What to Hunt: Seasonal Breakdown for Arlington Heights Hunters

Whitetail Deer

Deer hunting remains one of the most popular pursuits in Illinois. The archery season typically runs from October to mid-January, while firearm seasons are more limited and competitive.

Best Weapon: Compound bow or crossbow for archery zones
Hot Tip: Scout early in Cook County Forest Preserves and adjacent rural zones for activity patterns

Pheasant and Upland Birds

Northern Illinois stocks pheasants in designated public areas, making it ideal for beginners and family outings.

Hunting Timeframe: Late October through December
Tactic: Use trained dogs to flush out birds in tall grass and food plots

Waterfowl (Ducks & Geese)

Thanks to nearby wetland preserves and river corridors, waterfowl hunting is robust in the Arlington Heights region.

Season: Mid-October through early January
Required Gear: Decoys, duck calls, chest waders, and a valid Federal Duck Stamp

Licensing and Regulations for Illinois Hunters

To hunt legally in and around Arlington Heights, hunters must:

Obtain an Illinois hunting license
Complete a hunter safety course if born after Jan 1, 1980
Purchase additional permits for specific species (e.g., deer, turkey, waterfowl)
Follow the seasonal limits and legal weapon restrictions

Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website for the most current licensing and season information.

Top Hunting Gear Shops in Arlington Heights

Before hitting the field, gear up locally at some of the best outdoor and sporting goods stores in the area:

1. Bass Pro Shops – Gurnee

While not in Arlington Heights proper, this location is within a short drive and offers everything from ammunition to hunting apparel and treestand setups.

2. Cabela’s – Hoffman Estates

A must-visit for all types of hunters, Cabela’s offers firearms, bows, game calls, optics, and knowledgeable staff with local insight.

3. DICK’S Sporting Goods – Mount Prospect

Convenient and reliable, DICK’S carries basic gear and seasonal hunting equipment, great for last-minute purchases.

Tips for a Successful Hunt Around Arlington Heights

Scout early: Use apps like OnX Hunt to scout public land access
Watch the wind: Especially important for deer and turkey
Stay stealthy: Practice ethical hunting and minimize noise and scent
Layer up: Illinois fall weather can be cold—dress in moisture-wicking and insulated gear
Pattern Your Weapon: Whether bow, shotgun, or rifle (carried securely in Tactical Soft Rifle Cases), sight-in at the range ahead of time.

Why Arlington Heights is a Hunter's Launchpad

With easy access to multiple forest preserves, game-rich public lands, and well-stocked private clubs, Arlington Heights is strategically located for anyone looking to maximize their hunting season. The blend of urban amenities with close proximity to wild terrain makes it ideal for balancing weekend hunts with everyday life.

Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced sportsman, the opportunities for deer, pheasant, and waterfowl hunting around Arlington Heights are as good as anywhere in the Midwest.