Top Hunting Places in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Nestled at the base of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a top-tier destination for hunters seeking a wide range of game, diverse landscapes, and access to both public and private land. With its strategic location near forested hills, plains, and water sources, this city is a gateway to some of the most productive hunting grounds in Colorado. In this guide, we highlight the top hunting places in Colorado Springs, Colorado, complete with detailed game species, access rules, and pro tips for success.

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Fort Carson Hunting Area – Military Access with Big Game Potential

Located southwest of the city, Fort Carson offers exceptional access to deer, elk, and small game—but only for military personnel and their guests. It is managed as a conservation-focused zone and has high success rates due to limited pressure.

• Species: Elk, mule deer, turkey, coyote
  
• Access: Active duty, retired military, DoD civilians with valid hunting permits
  
• Permit: Fort Carson iSportsman registration required
  
• Tip: Schedule early; spots fill fast during peak big game seasons
  

Pikes Peak National Forest – Rugged Wilderness, Abundant Game

Just minutes from downtown, the Pikes Peak region is a hunter’s dream, offering over 1 million acres of wilderness. This forested region has long been known for mature bull elk, mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion.

• Game Management Units (GMUs): 59, 511, 512
  
• Species: Elk, mule deer, bear, lion, turkey
  
• Season: September (Archery) through November (Rifle)
  
• Tip: Focus on transition zones between dark timber and open meadows—prime areas for elk movement at dawn and dusk
  

Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area – Quiet, Productive Terrain

A short drive from Colorado Springs, Beaver Creek SWA is one of the area’s most underrated spots. The relatively low traffic makes it ideal for those pursuing small game, turkey, and mule deer in solitude.

• Species: Mule deer, turkey, rabbit
  
• Weapons Allowed: Shotgun, archery, muzzleloader, and rifle (season-specific)
  
• Rules: Colorado Parks & Wildlife regulations apply
  
• Tip: Scout the lower elevations for early-season turkey, particularly near creeks and open groves
  

Turkey Creek Ranch – Guided and DIY Hunts on Army Land

Operated in coordination with Fort Carson, Turkey Creek Ranch offers fee-based access to hunting and fishing on over 6,000 acres. This area is ideal for newer hunters or those looking for a managed but still wild experience.

• Species: Dove, coyote, waterfowl, deer
  
• Access: Public, with paid permit; reservations required
  
• Bonus: Family-friendly facilities, shooting range, and youth programs
  
• Tip: Great option for introducing kids or beginners to the sport under safe, supervised conditions
  

Aiken Canyon Preserve – Controlled, Conservation-Minded Hunts

Aiken Canyon, managed by The Nature Conservancy, periodically opens for controlled deer hunts to support habitat restoration efforts. These opportunities are draw-based but provide low-pressure, high-success hunting in a stunning setting.

• Species: Mule deer
  
• Access: Limited draw only
  
• Permit: CPW application + Preserve approval
  
• Tip: Exceptional terrain visibility; use quality optics for glassing during evening hours
  

Big Johnson Reservoir – Hidden Gem for Waterfowl

Though less talked about, Big Johnson Reservoir, southeast of the city, provides reliable hunting during waterfowl migration periods. The surrounding grasslands and wetlands attract ducks, geese, and doves.

• Species: Duck, goose, dove
  
• Type: Public access during open season
  
• Regulations: CPW small game license and habitat stamp required
  
• Tip: Hunt near the north shore in the early morning or post-storm for the best waterfowl flight paths
  

Brush Hollow SWA – Multi-Species Public Access

Approximately 40 minutes from Colorado Springs, Brush Hollow State Wildlife Area offers solid action for upland game, waterfowl, and big game archery hunts. It’s a well-rounded destination for mixed bag hunts and weekend outings.

• Species: Dove, quail, mule deer, duck
  
• Seasons: September through January depending on species
  
• Access: No fee; first-come, first-serve
  
• Tip: Bring both shotgun and bow if overlapping seasons allow—you may get lucky doubling up on your quarry
  

Hunting Gear Checklist for Colorado Springs Terrain

Before heading into the field, ensure your gear is suited for the varied terrain of the region, which can range from flat prairie to rugged mountains in a single hunt.

Recommended Gear

• Waterproof boots with ankle support (vital for steep terrain)
  
• Layered clothing for rapid temperature swings
  
• High-quality binoculars (10x42 minimum for big game)
  
• Blaze orange for rifle season
  
• Elk bugle and deer calls for October hunts
  
• Lightweight, high-lumen headlamp for early-morning setups
  
• Autrey’s Armory (Fayetteville) – Firearms, scopes, tactical soft rifle cases, and gear.

Hunting Licenses & Local Rules

All hunters in Colorado Springs must comply with Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) regulations.

Requirements

• Big Game License: Species-specific, often requires draw
  
• Small Game License: Available over the counter
  
• Habitat Stamp: Mandatory for all hunters
  
• Hunter Education Card: Required if born after 1949
  

Note: Always double-check unit boundaries and fire restrictions before entering national forests or wildlife areas.

Best Hunting Times by Game Species

Responsible Hunting and Conservation in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a hub of ecological diversity, and the responsible management of its game species is key to long-term sustainability. Always practice ethical shot placement, avoid overharvesting, and pack out all waste. Many local organizations—such as Colorado Wildlife Federation and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation—offer opportunities to get involved in habitat restoration and education.