Top Hunting Places in Evanston, Illinois

June 17, 2025

Despite its vibrant city charm and lakeside lifestyle, Evanston, Illinois is more than a cultural hub near Chicago—it’s a surprisingly effective base camp for hunters in the northern suburbs. While Evanston itself is more residential and academic in nature, its prime location provides quick access to some of the best hunting spots in the Chicagoland area., especially for those willing to drive 30 to 90 minutes for a successful day in the wild.

If you’re looking to pursue whitetail deer, wild turkey, pheasants, or migratory waterfowl, Evanston serves as a launch point for premier hunting experiences across northeastern Illinois and nearby counties.

Top Public Hunting Areas Near Evanston, Illinois

1. Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area

Just over an hour southwest of Evanston, the Des Plaines SFWA is a favorite among hunters for its vast landscapes and well-regulated game populations.

Acreage: Over 5,000 acres of forest, grassland, and wetlands
Popular Game: Deer (archery & firearm), pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, waterfowl
Special Permits: Site-specific permits required
Bonus: Designated hunting zones to ensure safety and higher harvest success

2. Moraine Hills State Park

Situated near McHenry, Moraine Hills offers an excellent backdrop for upland game and waterfowl hunting, especially with its surrounding wetland ecosystem.

Best For: Duck and goose hunting
Tips: Bring chest waders, decoys, and consider early morning blinds
Season: Mid-October to early January

3. Chain O’Lakes State Park

One of Illinois' most well-known recreation areas, Chain O’Lakes provides hunters with diverse terrain—perfect for deer and turkey hunting.

Proximity: Approx. 60 minutes from Evanston
Type of Hunting: Archery zones, shotgun, and muzzleloader options during appropriate seasons
Bonus: Canoe access to hard-to-reach duck habitats

Private Hunting Preserves & Clubs Close to Evanston

While public lands offer great opportunities, private hunting clubs elevate the experience with exclusive access, expert guides, and better wildlife management.

1. Rooster Heaven Hunt Club – Forrest, IL

Though a bit of a drive, this club offers high-quality pheasant and quail hunting with dog rentals, field guides, and a lodge-like atmosphere.

Game Species: Pheasant, chukar, quail
Ideal For: Beginners and family outings
Perk: Bird cleaning services and heated clubhouse

2. Bull Valley Hunt Club – Woodstock, IL

Less than 90 minutes from Evanston, Bull Valley provides a scenic and structured environment for upland game hunters. You can also train dogs and hone your shooting skills in their controlled fields..

Membership Required: Yes
Facilities: Guided hunts, sporting clays, dog kennels
Season: October–March

What You Can Hunt Near Evanston

Whitetail Deer

Season: Archery begins in early October, firearm in late November
Weapons: Bow, shotgun, muzzleloader (no rifle hunting in Illinois)
Recommended Areas: Chain O’Lakes, Des Plaines SFWA
Pro Tip: Scout food sources (acorns, cornfields) and bedding areas in advance

Wild Turkey

Season: Spring and Fall
Call Tools: Slate, diaphragm, or box call
Hunting Zones: Must apply for specific site permits through IDNR

Waterfowl (Duck & Goose)

Peak Season: October to January
Gear Essentials: Floating decoys, layout blinds, waders
Hotspots: Moraine Hills, private blinds on Fox River

Pheasant & Upland Birds

Season: Late October to mid-January
Strategy: Walk-in hunting with dogs highly recommended
Public Release Sites: Des Plaines SFWA and Chain O’Lakes receive seasonal bird stocking.

Illinois Hunting Regulations: Licenses, Permits & Safety Rules

To legally hunt near Evanston, every hunter needs the following:

Illinois Hunting License (resident or non-resident)
Habitat Stamp (for most game types)
Species-specific permits (e.g., archery deer, turkey, waterfowl)
Hunter Safety Course Certificate (if born after Jan 1, 1980)

Stay up to date with regulations and hunting season calendars through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Where to Buy Hunting Gear in Evanston

1. Cabela’s – Hoffman Estates

Only 45 minutes away, Cabela’s offers a massive selection of outdoor gear, including optics, camouflage clothing, scent blockers, tactical soft rifle cases, ammo, and more.

2. Bass Pro Shops – Gurnee

Great for firearms, archery gear, and hunting apparel—especially helpful when prepping for a long trip or multi-day hunt.

3. DICK’S Sporting Goods – Skokie

Perfect for last-minute needs like base layers, gloves, duck calls, and field knives.

Pro Hunting Tips Near Evanston: Wind, Maps & Ethics

Check Wind Direction: Especially for deer and turkey; scent matters.
Use Mapping Apps: OnX Hunt and HuntStand help track movement and property lines.
Hunt Weekdays: Fewer crowds at public lands, improving your odds.
Practice Ethical Shots: Clean kills reduce suffering and maintain respect for the game.

Why Evanston Is the Perfect Hunting Launchpad

Evanston may be urban and intellectual, but its location on the North Shore gives residents quick access to some of the Midwest’s top hunting grounds. With state parks, private preserves, and wildlife areas all within a 1 to 2-hour radius, it’s easy to blend city life with outdoor adventure.

Whether you're a weekend bowhunter or a passionate waterfowler, living in Evanston means your next trophy or bag limit is never far away.