Top Hunting Places in Chicago, Illinois

June 11, 2025

Chicago, Illinois might be famous for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and vibrant culture—but it’s also a strategic base for some of the best hunting grounds in the Midwest. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice exploring the outdoors for the first time, the areas surrounding Chicago offer exceptional opportunities for deer hunting, waterfowl hunting, and even upland game pursuits.

In this guide, we break down the top-rated, most accessible, and richly diverse hunting areas within driving distance from the city. From managed public lands to less-traveled preserves, each location delivers something unique.

Best Public Hunting Lands Near Chicago

Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area

Just over an hour southwest of downtown Chicago lies the Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area, a 5,000+ acre paradise for hunters. Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), it’s a hotspot for pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, and deer hunting.

Key features: Special controlled pheasant hunting zone (permit required)
Game available: Whitetail deer, pheasant, rabbit, dove, squirrel
Season access: September through January (check IDNR website for exact dates)
Bonus: Archery-only deer zones for safer, quieter hunts

Kankakee River State Park

Just 90 minutes from the city, Kankakee River State Park offers dense woods and a river system perfect for tracking white-tailed deer or setting up for waterfowl.

Key features: Over 4,000 acres of mixed terrain
Popular for: Deer, turkey, waterfowl, and furbearers like raccoon and coyote
Permit type: Site-specific permits required;lottery system for some species
Accessibility: Excellent trails and designated hunting blinds

Private Hunting Preserves Worth the Drive

Hunt Club of Illinois (Bristol, IL)

Only 65 miles from Chicago, this private preserve is ideal for those who value a curated hunting experience with guaranteed game presence.

Specialties: Pheasant, quail, and chukar hunts
Extras: On-site guides and well-trained hunting dogs available
Advantages: Great for corporate outings or beginner hunters
Memberships: Day passes and seasonal memberships offered

Crane Lake Shooting Preserve (Beecher, IL)

Located just an hour south of the city, Crane Lake offers a highly rated upland game bird experience.

Game available: Pheasant, quail, chukar
Terrain: Managed grasslands and small wooded areas
Ideal for: Small group hunts, families, and new hunters
Perks: Clean clubhouse, warm-up clay shooting available

Top Deer Hunting Locations Near Chicago

Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area

Shabbona Lake, a 1,550-acre area just 90 minutes west of the city, offers a peaceful yet productive location for archery deer hunters.

Key highlights: Archery-only deer zones with low pressure
Season: Fall through early winter (specifics vary yearly)
Tips: Scout early and consider weekday hunts to avoid crowds

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, is just outside Joliet and offers bow-only deer hunting on over 20,000 acres.

Unique feature: Only tallgrass prairie in the state open to hunting
Access: Permit required through an annual lottery
Best for: Experienced bow hunters seeking solitude and challenge
Bonus: Opportunity to spot rare bird species and bison herd

Waterfowl Hunting Near Lake Michigan

Chain O’ Lakes State Park

Situated in northeastern Illinois, Chain O’ Lakes is a magnet for duck and goose hunters.

Best time to hunt: October through early December
Habitat: Marshes, lakes, and shallow wetlands
Regulations: Blind sites available via seasonal drawing
Pro tip: Bring a canoe or layout boat for access to hidden hot spots

Lake Calumet (Permit-Only Access)

While technically within Chicago’s city limits, Lake Calumet is part of a state-regulated program that allows for managed waterfowl hunting.

Entry type: Application-based seasonal permit
Game available: Mallards, teal, gadwall, and geese
Appeal: Rare urban hunting opportunity with exceptional bird numbers
Caution: Strict rules—be prepared with all documentation and safety gear

Small Game & Upland Hunting Opportunities

Green River State Wildlife Area

Located 2.5 hours west of Chicago, Green River is renowned for its thriving populations of rabbit, pheasant, and squirrels.

Total area: Over 2,500 acres
Game variety: Upland birds, rabbits, raccoons, and squirrels
Pro tip: Mid-season weekday hunts yield the best results
Hunter amenities: Parking, restrooms, and bird-cleaning stations

Licensing, Permits, and Safety Reminders

Before you head out, make sure you’re legally equipped:

License: All hunters must carry a valid Illinois Hunting License
Stamps & Permits: Depending on the game, you may need additional tags or stamps (e.g., Habitat Stamp, Deer Permit, Upland Game Stamp)
Hunter Safety Card: Mandatory for hunters born after January 1, 1980
Reporting: Successful deer and turkey harvests must be reported to IDNR within 24 hours

Always refer to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website for the most up-to-date regulations, closures, and hunting seasons: https://dnr.illinois.gov/

Tips for a Successful Hunt Near Chicago

Scout in advance: Public lands near the city can become crowded. Knowing where to go helps you avoid overhunted zones.
Be weather-ready: Illinois hunting seasons often occur in unpredictable weather. Dress in moisture-wicking, insulated layers.
Use scent control: Especially important for deer hunters in heavily-trafficked areas.
Practice ethical hunting: Respect property lines, bag limits, and safe shooting zones. A good hunt is a responsible one.
Pattern Your Weapon: Whether bow, shotgun, or rifle (carried securely in Tactical Soft Rifle Cases), sight-in at the range ahead of time.

Conclusion: Why Chicago is a Strategic Base for Hunters

With a combination of public land, private preserves, and diverse ecosystems, Chicago offers more than just urban convenience—it’s a gateway to some of the best Midwest hunting experiences. Whether your target is whitetail deer, upland game, or migratory waterfowl, there’s a location near Chicago that matches your skill and passion.

From the tallgrass prairies of Midewin to the controlled hunts of Des Plaines, opportunity abounds just beyond the skyline.