Top Hunting Places in Bolingbrook, Illinois

June 19, 2025

Located in Will County, just 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Bolingbrook, Illinois may seem like a suburban enclave at first glance—but it’s within striking distance of some of the best hunting grounds in Northern Illinois. From whitetail-rich woodlands to well-stocked upland game preserves, Bolingbrook offers the perfect jumping-off point for hunters seeking action, variety, and accessibility.

Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or a beginner looking to get started in the sport, this guide covers the top hunting areas near Bolingbrook, what game to pursue, licensing requirements, and gear you’ll need for a successful hunt.

Top Public Hunting Lands Near Bolingbrook

1. Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area – A Multi-Species Haven

Located less than an hour from Bolingbrook, the Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area in Wilmington is one of Illinois’ premier public hunting destinations. With more than 5,000 acres of forests, grasslands, and wetlands, it offers:

Archery and firearm deer hunting
Excellent dove, rabbit, and squirrel hunting
Waterfowl blinds for ducks and geese
Seasonal turkey opportunities

All hunters must check in and out, and permits are required through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

2. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie – Unique Terrain and Controlled Hunts

Just 30 minutes south of Bolingbrook, Midewin offers a unique blend of prairie restoration and public access. Hunting is allowed in designated zones during specific seasons for:

Whitetail deer (archery only)
Wild turkey
Small game in upland habitats

This site is ideal for hunters seeking a quiet, low-pressure environment to hone their skills amid natural beauty—including roaming bison herds.

3. Kankakee River State Park – A Rugged Whitetail Challenge

Located about 75 minutes from Bolingbrook, Kankakee River State Park offers excellent terrain diversity—from riverbanks and hardwoods to scrub and fields. Popular for:

Bowhunting mature whitetail bucks
Pursuing squirrels and raccoons
Spring turkey season action

This site is best suited for experienced hunters looking for low-pressure but high-reward hunting grounds.

Private Hunting Clubs Near Bolingbrook

1. Rooster Heaven Hunt Club – Upland Bird Hunting Excellence

For a reliable, guided experience, Rooster Heaven near Forreston, IL, offers:

Private pheasant and quail hunts
Dog and guide services
Hunting packages with no license required (on private lands)

Perfect for families, beginners, and corporate groups looking for a fun, fast-paced hunt without the wait and crowd of public sites.

2. Oak Hill Hunting Preserve – Customized Hunts Close to Home

Oak Hill provides a private preserve experience within 90 minutes of Bolingbrook. It offers:

Guided whitetail deer and turkey hunts
Upland bird hunts (pheasant, quail, chukar)
Lodge accommodations and meal packages

This is ideal for special occasion hunts or anyone wanting a more curated and controlled environment.

Popular Game Near Bolingbrook

Whitetail Deer

Illinois is known for its record-book bucks, and the woodlots around Will, Grundy, and Kankakee Counties are no exception. Mature bucks often score 140 inches or higher on the Boone & Crockett scale, especially during the rut in November.

Upland Game (Pheasant, Quail, Dove)

Many public and private grounds support stocked pheasant hunts, while doves are abundant during the early season in areas like Des Plaines and local grain fields.

Wild Turkey

Illinois boasts a robust turkey population, with gobblers active in spring and a shorter fall season. Target creek beds and hardwood ridges near tallgrass prairies.

Waterfowl

With multiple lakes and rivers nearby, Canada geese and mallards are frequent visitors to the region’s flyways. Hunting blinds are often available by lottery or advance reservation at public sites.

Small Game

Squirrels, rabbits, and even raccoons offer plentiful opportunities in woodlots and conservation areas. These are ideal game for youth hunters or quick morning outings.

Hunting Laws and License Requirements

All hunters near Bolingbrook must be in compliance with IDNR regulations, including:

Valid Illinois Hunting License
Habitat Stamp (required for most game)
Deer or turkey tags as applicable
HIP registration for waterfowl
Safety course certification (mandatory for hunters born on or after January 1, 1980)

Licenses can be purchased online at IDNR or at authorized vendors throughout the Bolingbrook area.

Essential Gear for Northern Illinois Hunts

To prepare for the varying conditions of Northern Illinois, make sure your hunting pack includes:

Layered camouflage clothing suited for cold, wet, and windy environments
Insulated and waterproof boots
Climbing harness and portable stand (for deer hunters)
Game calls (turkey, duck, and deer)
Navigation tools (onX Hunt app or handheld GPS)
Rangefinder, binoculars, and blaze orange gear
Field dressing kit and scent control spray

Pro tip: Always pack a small first aid kit, extra batteries, and snacks, especially for day-long hunts or colder months.

Tips for a Successful Hunt Around Bolingbrook

Scout your location in advance, using trail cameras or digital mapping.
Time your hunt based on wind direction to stay hidden from deer and turkey.
Plan mid-week hunts to avoid weekend crowds on public land.
Use decoys and blinds to improve chances during the waterfowl and turkey seasons.
Arrive before sunrise and stay until dusk—prime movement times for deer.
Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for secure firearm transport

Why Bolingbrook is an Ideal Base for Illinois Hunters

Bolingbrook combines urban convenience with outdoor proximity. In under an hour, hunters can reach some of the most productive hunting zones in the state. It’s a rare blend of accessibility and opportunity—whether you’re chasing a trophy buck, enjoying a father-son squirrel hunt, or planning a guided upland trip.

And with local sporting goods shops, shooting ranges, and seasonal events, Bolingbrook supports a thriving community of passionate hunters.