Top Hunting Places in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, located in the heart of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, is more than just a historic steel town—it's a gateway to some of Eastern Pennsylvania’s top hunting grounds. Surrounded by lush forests, state game lands, and rural countryside, Bethlehem offers convenient access to white-tailed deer, turkey, pheasant, waterfowl, and small game. With a strong hunting culture and Wildlife Management Unit 5C offering extended seasons and generous antlerless deer quotas, Bethlehem is a prime location for both seasoned and novice hunters.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Bethlehem

1. State Game Lands Number 205

Just north of Bethlehem, SGL 205 covers over 1,100 acres and is one of the most accessible and productive hunting areas in Northampton and Lehigh counties. The mix of open fields, forested ridges, and brushy cover makes it ideal for a range of game species.

Key Features:

• Pheasant stocking during fall upland season
  
• Productive deer and small game habitat
  
• Easy access from Bethlehem via PA Route 191
  

2. State Game Lands Number 168

Located in nearby Monroe County, SGL 168 is a quieter, often-overlooked spot offering thick cover and mature hardwoods. It’s particularly favored by archery deer hunters and spring turkey callers.

Key Features:

• Less foot traffic compared to closer SGLs
  
• Ample roosting areas for turkeys
  
• Mixed terrain for strategic stand placement
  

3. Jacobsburg State Park (Hunting Zones Only)

Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center allows regulated hunting in designated areas. The park spans nearly 1,200 acres and is located just a short drive north of Bethlehem.

Key Features:

• Ideal for archery hunting in wooded corridors
  
• Good squirrel and rabbit activity
  
• Scenic and quiet, especially mid-week
  

Top Private Hunting Preserves Near Bethlehem

4. Lehigh Valley Preserve

This private preserve offers guided pheasant, quail, and chukar hunts just outside Bethlehem. It's a fantastic choice for upland bird hunters looking for guaranteed opportunities and a well-maintained habitat.

Key Features:

• Experienced dog handlers and guides available
  
• No state license required for preserve hunts
  
• Perfect for group outings and bird dog training
  

5. Martz’s Game Farm (Lenhartsville)

Located under an hour from Bethlehem, Martz’s is known for its upland game bird hunts and friendly staff. Hunters can enjoy half-day or full-day packages chasing pheasants, chukar, and quail.

Key Features:

• Great for first-time hunters and families
  
• Professional bird dog service
  
• Consistent success rates and well-stocked grounds
  

Game Species Common in the Bethlehem Area

White-tailed Deer

Bethlehem lies within WMU 5C, known for extended antlerless seasons, especially in suburban and urban fringe zones. SGL 205 and Jacobsburg State Park are prime spots for both archery and rifle seasons.

Wild Turkey

Spring gobbler season attracts many local hunters to SGL 168 and the wooded ridges above the Lehigh Valley. Fall turkey hunting is also strong in the area, with good populations and favorable terrain.

Pheasant & Upland Birds

The Pennsylvania Game Commission stocks pheasants in several nearby game lands. Private preserves offer an even more consistent experience for hunters looking to pursue upland birds with or without dogs.

Waterfowl

While Bethlehem isn’t known for vast wetlands, nearby ponds, rivers, and fields provide decent shooting opportunities during migration. Delaware River corridors and retention ponds can produce solid hunts during cold fronts.

Small Game

Bethlehem’s outskirts support strong populations of squirrel, rabbit, and groundhog, offering excellent opportunities for youth hunters or early-season outings.

Licensing and Regulations in Bethlehem, PA

All hunters must obtain appropriate licenses through the Pennsylvania Game Commission:

• General Hunting License (resident or non-resident)
  
• Archery and Muzzleloader Permits (as needed)
  
• Antlerless Deer Tags for WMU 5C
  
• Hunting Education Certificate for first-time license holders
  

Licenses are available online or at local retailers like Cabela’s in nearby Hamburg.

Hunting Seasons and Best Times Near Bethlehem

 

Expert Tips for Hunting in the Bethlehem Area

• Scout Early: Public lands near Bethlehem see pressure, so get out ahead of the season to locate bedding areas, food sources, and funnels.
  
• Hunt Weekdays: SGL 205 and Jacobsburg are busiest on weekends. Plan morning hunts mid-week for less competition.
  
• Use Digital Maps: Apps like onX Hunt or HuntStand help pinpoint land boundaries, trails, and stand locations.
  
• Watch Weather Fronts: Deer move before cold snaps, and ducks arrive fast with the right wind conditions.
  
• Respect Access Rules: Many preserves and parks have limited hunting zones—read regulations and maps carefully before setting out.
  

Must-Have Gear for Bethlehem Hunting

• Valid hunting license and WMU 5C tags
  
• Blaze orange (vest and hat) as required
  
• Compound bow, crossbow, shotgun, or rifle (depending on season)
  
• Tree stand or portable blind
  
• Binoculars and scent control gear
  
• Rangefinder and topo map
  
• Field dressing tools and game bags
  
• Waders and decoys for waterfowl (if applicable)
  
• Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for secure firearm transport
  

Conclusion: Bethlehem Is a Hunter’s Launchpad

Whether you're bowhunting bucks at dawn, flushing pheasants with a bird dog, or calling in a longbeard during spring, Bethlehem offers some of the best hunting access in the Lehigh Valley. With nearby state game lands, well-managed private preserves, and a generous WMU structure, this region blends opportunity with convenience. Make the most of your season with a well-planned trip to one of Bethlehem’s premier hunting destinations.