Top 7 Hunting Places in Houston, Texas

Houston's Premier Hunting Opportunities

Houston, Texas stands as a remarkable destination for hunting enthusiasts. With its diverse game species, vast private ranches, and public hunting lands, Houston offers unmatched access for both novice and seasoned hunters. Whether you're looking to harvest white-tailed deer, feral hogs, dove, or turkey, Houston's hunting scene combines convenience, variety, and southern wilderness charm.

Why Houston is a Top Choice for Texas Hunters

Strategic Location and Biodiversity

Houston sits in proximity to the Gulf Coast Prairies and Marshes, which creates a habitat-rich environment for wildlife. From wetlands teeming with waterfowl to brushland full of deer and hogs, hunters are treated to an ecosystem that’s both rewarding and challenging.

Extended Seasons and Accessible Licensing

Texas Parks and Wildlife offers lengthy hunting seasons, flexible licensing options, and ample draw hunts, particularly in Harris County and nearby regions. Many private ranches in the Houston area also provide year-round hunting for exotics and nuisance species like hogs and coyotes.

Top 7 Hunting Locations Near Houston, Texas

1. Triple JJJ Ranch – Fulshear, TX

Located just 40 minutes west of Houston, Triple JJJ Ranch offers 3,200 acres of prime hunting land in the Post Oak Savannah. Since 2005, they’ve raised top-tier exotic hoofstock and provide guided hunts for whitetail, axis deer, blackbuck, and more—with high-fence or free-range options. Enjoy trophy-quality game, comfortable lodging, and an unforgettable Texas hunting experience.

• Best for: Big game hunting
• Amenities: On-site lodging, rifle and bow hunts, meals included
  

2. Brazos Bend State Park – Fort Bend County

Ideal for public land hunters, Brazos Bend offers draw hunts for white-tailed deer and feral hogs. Located just under 50 miles from central Houston, this is a go-to option for those looking for low-cost, regulated hunts close to the city. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Best for: Budget-friendly public hunting. The permit fee is affordable, especially when compared to similar high-quality hunting opportunities.
• Game: White-tailed deer, feral hogs, small game
  

3. Indianhead Ranch – Del Rio, TX (Weekend Destination)

Though located approximately five hours west of Houston, this destination is popular for long weekend trips. Indianhead Ranch is home to over 30 exotic species, including scimitar-horned oryx, kudu, and aoudad sheep. They are only accepting a limited number of group hunts, with a minimum of four hunters required starting in 2024.

• Best for: Exotic species hunting
  
• Native Game: White-tailed deer, Open Range (MLDP Season); Estate Hunt (MLDP Season)
  

4. Crockett Family Resort – Trinity County

Located just 2 hours from Houston and Dallas, Crockett Family Resort offers hunters the perfect basecamp with exclusive access to prime whitetail deer and wild boar hunting grounds. As the only property with a private boat ramp on Houston County Lake, we provide easy access to trophy-worthy game and unbeatable convenience for hunting excursions.

After a day in the field, unwind at the lakeside retreat—ideal for hunting groups, outdoor enthusiasts, and sportsmen seeking adventure in Texas' rich wildlife territory.

• Best for: Family-friendly hunting trips
  
• Highlights: Lodging, lake access, public land adjacency
  

5. Independence Ranch – Gonzales, TX

Just over an hour from Houston, Independence Ranch is known for all-inclusive hog hunting. With a near-100% success rate, it’s perfect for beginners looking to gain confidence in the field. Generally open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

• Best for: Guaranteed hog hunting experiences
  
• Perks: Lodging, meals, unlimited hogs (in certain packages)
  

6. Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

A few hours from Houston, this WMA near Victoria, TX provides excellent waterfowl hunting opportunities. With expansive marshes and cropland, it’s ideal for ducks, geese, and teal hunting. For hunting, the opening times are specific to the activity and may vary. Contact the area manager for the most accurate and up-to-date hunting schedule

• Best for: Waterfowl hunting
  
• License Required: Public hunting permit through TPWD
  

7. Dos Plumas Hunting Ranch – Centerville, TX

Located in Centerville, Texas, Dos Plumas Hunting Ranch offers premier deer, ram, and hog hunts in the rugged terrain of West Texas' Edwards Plateau. While not near Houston, it's conveniently accessible—just 2.5 hours from Dallas/Fort Worth and under 4 hours from Austin. Dos Plumas specializes in deer, ram, and hog hunts. The terrain is classic East Texas woodland, perfect for traditional hunting vibes and guided packages.

• Best for: Hog, deer, and ram hunting
• Notable: Offers customizable group hunting packages
  

Species Available for Hunting Around Houston

White-tailed deer

The iconic game of Texas, whitetail deer hunting near Houston reaches its peak from November to January. Both private and public lands offer hunting opportunities, with archery and rifle seasons well-defined.

Feral Hogs

Available year-round, feral hogs are abundant and can be hunted without seasonal restrictions on private land. Many ranches near Houston offer thermal night hunts, making this both a challenging and exhilarating experience.

Dove and Waterfowl

With migratory flyways passing through Houston, dove and duck hunting seasons attract hunters from across the state. Day leases, guided hunts, and public draw opportunities make this an accessible pursuit for all experience levels.

Turkey and Exotics

Spring turkey hunting is available on draw permits or private ranches. Exotics like axis deer, fallow deer, and blackbuck are commonly found on high-fence ranches and can be hunted year-round.

Best Hunting Times and Regulations

• Deer: Archery season begins in early October, general season runs through early January
  
• Dove: Split into early September and late December seasons
  
• Hogs: No closed season on private lands
  
• Waterfowl: Typically from late October to January, depending on species and zones
  

Always check current hunting regulations through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for up-to-date dates, bag limits, and public land permits.

Gear Checklist for a Successful Houston Hunt

Before venturing out, ensure you’re fully equipped for success and safety:

• Texas Hunting License + Applicable Stamps
  
• Hunter’s Education Certificate (if born after Sept 2, 1971)
  
• Valid firearm or bow with proper sighting
  
• Camo/Weather-Appropriate Gear
  
• Game Calls and Scents (Deer/Turkey)
  
• Coolers for Transporting Meat
  
• GPS or hunting app (e.g., onX or HuntStand)
• Binoculars, Knife, and Field Dressing Kit

Tips for Booking a Hunting Trip in Houston

• Book in advance – peak seasons fill fast, especially on private ranches.
  
• Consider group rates – many ranches offer discounted packages for group hunts.
  
• Ask about lodging and meals – all-inclusive options simplify logistics.
  
• Confirm weapon policies – some properties are bow-only or restrict certain calibers.
  
• Ask about game guarantees – especially if traveling long distance
  
  

Conclusion: Why Houston is a Hunter’s Dream Destination

From trophy bucks to wild boar and waterfowl, Houston stands out as one of Texas’s most versatile hunting hubs. Whether you prefer public lands or exclusive ranches, the abundance of game, ease of access, and southern hospitality make it a must-visit for hunters across the country.