Top Hunting Places in Easton, Pennsylvania

June 9, 2025

Located at the junction of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers, Easton, Pennsylvania, is more than just a historic city with charming colonial streets—it is a strategic gateway to some of the best hunting lands in eastern Pennsylvania. Whether you're hunting whitetail deer in thick woodlots, calling gobblers in the early morning mist, or scouting for black bear in the Pocono foothills, Easton provides direct access to rich game populations and a variety of hunting terrains.

Why Easton is a Strategic Hunting Hub

Easton’s geographic location near the Appalachian Mountain foothills, combined with its proximity to Lehigh Valley greenbelts, farmlands, and public game lands, makes it a powerhouse for hunters looking to blend accessibility with opportunity. Within a 30- to 60-minute radius, hunters can reach thousands of acres of state game lands, forests, and private lands enrolled in access programs.

Its central location in Northampton County also places it close to Wildlife Management Units (WMU) 3D, 4C, and 5C, offering flexible options based on the season and species you're targeting.

Top Public Hunting Area Near Easton: State Game Lands Number 168

Overview

Located just north of Easton, State Game Lands Number 168 (SGL 168) is a top hunting destination for residents and visitors alike. Spanning over 2,500 acres, it’s characterized by a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, meadows, and ridgelines—ideal for spotting game throughout the year.

Primary Game Species

Whitetail Deer: Thrive in the broken forests and field edges.
Wild Turkey: Common in spring and fall in mature hardwoods.
Eastern Cottontail Rabbits: Found in thick brush and field borders.
Squirrels: Especially prevalent in oak groves during fall.
Coyotes and Red Fox: Present year-round and targeted by predator hunters.
Woodcock and Grouse: In designated thicket zones during migratory season.

Accessibility

Access is available via Kesslersville Road and surrounding backroads. Parking areas are well-marked, and a network of old logging trails provides walk-in access for scouting and stand placement.

Other Great Hunting Spots Near Easton

Jacobsburg State Park

While primarily used for recreation, Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center offers limited hunting access on over 1,100 acres. This park is great for bowhunters and those seeking close-to-town opportunities with minimal travel.

State Game Lands Number 168 Adjacent Tracts

The surrounding private lands, some enrolled in Pennsylvania’s Hunter Access Program, expand hunting opportunities for those willing to secure permissions. These areas are rich in cornfields, hardwood draws, and small creeks—perfect for deer and turkey activity.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Roughly 40 minutes north of Easton lies the Delaware Water Gap, offering tens of thousands of acres open to regulated hunting. With its steep ridges, hemlock forests, and remote valleys, this area is especially attractive to black bear and serious big game hunters.

Game Seasons in the Easton Area

Species	Typical Season Dates
Whitetail Deer	Archery (Sept–Nov), Firearms (Nov–Dec)
Black Bear	Archery (Oct), Rifle (Nov)
Wild Turkey	Spring (April–May), Fall (Oct–Nov)
Small Game	Oct–Feb (species-dependent)
Migratory Birds	Sept–Jan (check zone-specific regulations)
Coyotes & Foxes	Year-round; night hunting allowed in season

Always refer to Pennsylvania Game Commission’s official regulations and local WMU guidelines before heading out. Easton typically falls into WMU 5C or 3D, depending on your direction of travel.

Local Gear Shops and Outfitters in Easton

Before heading out into the field, gear up at some of Easton’s well-regarded outdoor suppliers:

Cabela’s – Hamburg, PA: A full-service outdoor megastore about an hour away.
Easton Outdoor Company: Great for clothing, optics, and local maps.
Forks Outfitters: A local favorite for ammo, hunting gear, and licenses.
Tactical Soft Rifle Cases and other specialized gear available through local and online retailers.

Many stores also serve as official license issuing agents, allowing hunters to purchase tags, stamps, and permits directly on-site.

Hunting Tips for Success in the Easton Region

Scout Early and Often

With mixed-use lands and varying terrain, effective scouting is key. Use topographical apps like HuntStand, OnX, or PA Game Commission’s map viewer to mark trails, bedding areas, and food sources. Look for transition zones between forest and agriculture for deer.

Understand Pressure Zones

Easton is close to urban centers, meaning public lands may see more hunting pressure on opening days. Consider hunting midweek or exploring more remote sections of game lands for better odds.

Use Local Knowledge

Speak with local hunters or stop into area shops. Many residents are happy to share recent movement patterns or local hotspots—especially for turkey or small game.

Where to Stay and Refuel After the Hunt

Easton offers a variety of accommodations for out-of-town hunters:

Historic Downtown Inns: Ideal for hunters traveling with families or looking to mix leisure with adventure.
Budget Motels and Chain Hotels: Convenient access to Route 33 and I-78.
Camping Near the Water Gap: Perfect for DIY hunters seeking immersion in the wild.

Great local eats include:

Two Rivers Brewing Company: Known for hearty meals and craft beers.
The Bayou: Southern-style comfort food ideal for post-hunt refueling.

Final Thoughts: Easton – A Hunter’s Gateway to the Lehigh Valley Wilds

Easton may be best known for its historic downtown and riverfront, but hunters know the real treasures lie just beyond the city limits. With access to expansive public lands, abundant game populations, and a deep-rooted outdoor culture, Easton stands as one of the top hunting access points in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Whether you're chasing deer through ridgelines, scouting silent woods for spring gobblers, or watching the skies for migrating doves, the Easton region has everything a serious hunter needs—within a short drive of home.