Top Hunting Places in Garland, Texas

April 28, 2025

Nestled in the heart of North Texas, Garland, Texas, is more than just a suburb of Dallas—it’s a gateway to some of the best hunting opportunities in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or a beginner looking to experience your first hunt, the areas around Garland offer a diverse range of game, terrains, and hunting styles to suit all preferences. Below, we explore the top hunting spots near Garland, offering detailed insights for a successful expedition.

Lake Ray Hubbard – Waterfowl Hunting Haven

Located just east of Garland, Lake Ray Hubbard is a prime destination for waterfowl hunters. This large reservoir boasts thousands of acres of public hunting opportunities, especially during the duck and goose migration seasons.

Target Species: Mallards, Teal, Widgeon, Gadwall, Canada Geese
Best Season: November through January
Hunting Style: Boat hunting, shoreline blinds
Access Tips: Launch from Dalrock Road or Interstate 30 for the best access points to secluded coves

The lake’s shallow waters and flooded timber make it a perfect habitat for waterfowl, drawing flocks throughout the winter months.

North Texas Outfitters – Trophy Deer and Hog Hunts

For those seeking a guided hunting experience, North Texas Outfitters, just a short drive from Garland, offers private ranch hunts specializing in whitetail deer, feral hogs, and even exotic species.

Target Species: Whitetail Deer, Feral Hogs, Axis Deer, Blackbuck Antelope
Best Season: October through March
Hunting Style: Ground blinds, elevated stands, thermal night hunting (for hogs)
Amenities: Lodging, meals, on-site guides, meat processing

This is a go-to for serious hunters seeking a controlled, high-success environment.

Caddo National Grasslands – Public Land Paradise

Located approximately 90 minutes northeast of Garland, the Caddo National Grasslands offer public hunting lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It’s a prime spot for DIY hunters.

Target Species: Whitetail Deer, Feral Hogs, Turkey, Squirrel
Best Season: Fall (Deer), Spring (Turkey)
Hunting Style: Spot and stalk, tree stand, still hunting
Permit: TPWD Annual Public Hunting Permit is required

The diversity of habitats, including hardwood bottoms and open fields, supports a wide range of game. Scouting is key here due to the large, sprawling terrain.

Garland Duck Club – Private Membership Hunting

If you prefer an exclusive and members-only experience, the Garland Duck Club provides premium hunts for dedicated waterfowlers.

Target Species: Pintails, Gadwalls, Redheads, Teal
Best Season: Early teal (September), regular duck season (November–January)
Hunting Style: Managed blinds, decoy spreads
Club Perks: Guest passes, habitat management, pre-scouted areas

Membership offers guaranteed access to well-maintained wetlands that are heavily managed for duck migration and productivity.

Lavon Lake – Walk-In Hunting Spots

Lavon Lake, located just 35 minutes from Garland, provides walk-in public access for hunting via the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Target Species: Doves, Waterfowl, Feral Hogs
Best Season: Dove season (September); hog hunting year-round
Access Tips: East Fork, Lavonia Park, and Brockdale Park entrances
Permit: Texas Public Hunting Permit required

This is a cost-effective and convenient option for hunters based in Garland who don’t want to travel far.

Blackland Prairie Habitat – Prime for Upland Game

The areas surrounding Garland lie within the Blackland Prairie ecoregion, historically known for its abundant upland game birds.

Target Species: Bobwhite Quail, Mourning Dove, Rabbit
Best Season: Dove (early fall), Quail (late fall)
Hunting Style: Walk-up shooting with dogs
Best Access: Private leases or guided upland bird hunts near Rockwall and Terrell

Although wild populations have declined, leased lands and conservation tracts are restoring habitat and offering solid opportunities.

Feral Hog Hunting – Year-Round Action

Texas is known for its feral hog problem—and Garland is no exception. Several outfitters in the region specialize in hog eradication hunts, offering exciting action-packed experiences.

Target Species: Feral Hogs
Best Season: Year-round
Hunting Style: Night vision thermal hunting, dogs and knife, baited blinds
Top Outfitters: Texas Hog Hunters near Greenville, Lone Star Hog Hunts in Kaufman

Hog hunting not only provides a thrilling experience, and it helps landowners manage property damage caused by these invasive animals.

East Fork Trinity River – Bowhunting Hotspot

For archers, the East Fork of the Trinity River provides bowhunting-only zones that are rich in deer and hog activity.

Target Species: Whitetail Deer, Feral Hogs
Season: September to January (Deer), Year-round (Hogs)
Access: Limited walk-in spots near Wylie and Lavon
Regulations: Archery-only; follow TPWD guidelines

This area requires stealth and patience, but offers a rewarding challenge for traditional hunters.

TPWD Draw Hunts – Garland Residents Can Apply

Residents of Garland can also take advantage of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Draw Hunt System, which opens the doors to exclusive hunting opportunities across the state.

Target Species: All major game (Deer, Turkey, Dove, Waterfowl, Exotics)
Application Deadline: Varies per species
How It Works: Low-entry lottery system; some hunts are youth or mobility-accessible

Draw hunts offer access to high-quality public lands normally closed to hunting, making them ideal for trophy seekers.

Essential Gear and Licenses

Before you head out on any hunt near Garland, make sure to have the following:

Texas Hunting License (and any applicable endorsements)
Annual Public Hunting Permit (for public lands)
Blaze Orange Clothing (if rifle hunting)
Valid Hunter Education Certificate
Waders, camo, decoys, thermals – depending on the game and location

Also, be sure to check TPWD rules and bag limits before each trip.

Final Thoughts

Garland, Texas, serves as an underrated base for accessing some of the richest hunting grounds in North Texas. From public lands and sprawling lakes to guided ranches and private clubs, there’s a hunting experience for everyone—whether you seek the solitude of bowhunting or the excitement of a thermal hog hunt. The diversity in species, terrain, and style makes Garland a top destination for hunters in Texas looking to stay close to home while exploring wild terrain.

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