Top Hunting Places Near Johns Creek, Georgia

Johns Creek, Georgia, located just northeast of Atlanta, is surrounded by a blend of suburban charm and access to exceptional hunting grounds. While Johns Creek is primarily residential, it serves as an ideal home base for hunters looking to explore North Georgia’s rich hunting terrain. From whitetail deer and wild turkey to feral hogs and upland birds, the area around Johns Creek offers exciting opportunities for hunters of all experience levels.

1. Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located about an hour north of Johns Creek, Dawson Forest WMA covers more than 25,000 acres of diverse forest and creek bottoms. It's one of the most accessible public hunting lands in North Georgia.

Species to Hunt:

• Whitetail Deer (archery and firearm seasons)
  
• Wild Turkey
  
• Small Game (squirrel, rabbit)
  
• Feral Hogs (seasonal)
  

What Makes It Unique:

• Expansive, undisturbed forest areas
  
• Designated archery-only zones for added safety
  
• Well-maintained trails for scouting
  

2. Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center (Clybel WMA)

Located 90 minutes south of Johns Creek, this WMA offers a controlled and educational hunting experience. With over 6,400 acres of land, Charlie Elliott WMA is a hidden gem.

Key Features:

• Regular quota and youth hunting opportunities
  
• Excellent for family hunting trips
  
• Great for deer, turkey, and dove hunting
  

Extras:

• Educational center with shooting ranges
  
• Lodging and campgrounds available for overnight trips
  

3. McGraw Ford Wildlife Management Area

Just 45 minutes northwest of Johns Creek, McGraw Ford WMA offers 2,000+ acres of mostly hardwood forest along the Etowah River.

Ideal For:

• Archery deer hunting
  
• Turkey hunting in spring
  
• Small game in the winter months
  

Access Notes:

• Day-use only
  
• Waterproof boots recommended for muddy terrain
  

4. Private Hunting Clubs in Forsyth and Cherokee Counties

Several exclusive hunting leases operate and clubs just 30–60 minutes from Johns Creek. These private properties offer controlled access and often manage game populations for more consistent hunting.

Benefits:

• Year-round scouting and game management
  
• Fewer hunters = less pressure on wildlife
  
• Ideal for establishing hunting traditions
  

Where to Look:

• Georgia Outdoor News (GON) classifieds
  
• BaseCamp Leasing
  
• Facebook hunting lease groups
  

5. Garland Mountain Sporting Clays – Upland Bird Hunting

If upland bird hunting is more your style, Garland Mountain in Waleska offers guided quail, pheasant, and chukar hunts on scenic, private land. Located just over an hour from Johns Creek, it’s a perfect weekend hunting destination.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Fully guided hunts with trained bird dogs
  
• Great for beginners and seasoned shooters
  
• On-site shotgun range and pro shop
  

6. Chattahoochee National Forest

While a bit farther out, the Chattahoochee National Forest (2+ hours away) is one of Georgia’s largest and most prized public hunting regions. It covers over 750,000 acres across North Georgia.

What to Expect:

• Wild boar, deer, bear, turkey, and small game
  
• Remote, mountainous terrain perfect for spot-and-stalk hunting
  
• Primitive camping and incredible scenic views
  

Hunting Tips:

• Come prepared for elevation changes
  
• Limited cell service - download offline maps
  

7. Lake Lanier Tributaries (Feral Hog Hotspots)

Though hunting on Lake Lanier itself is restricted, some private lands and tributaries near the lake—just 30–45 minutes from Johns Creek—offer solid feral hog hunting opportunities with landowner permission.

Pro Tip:

Join local landowner networks or forums to discover short-term hog hunting leases, often available year-round.

Gear Up at Local Shops Near Johns Creek

Before heading out, stop by these trusted gear suppliers:

• Adventure Outdoors (Smyrna) – Firearms, ammo, hunting licenses
  
• Bass Pro Shops (Lawrenceville) – Apparel, archery, optics
  
• SST Firearms (Cumming) – Specializes in tactical and hunting gear
  
• Practice scent control—Humidity in this region holds scent longer—use scent-free soaps, sprays, and Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for gear protection.
  

Licensing and Legal Requirements

Georgia hunting requirements include:

• A valid Georgia Hunting License
  
• A WMA Permit for state wildlife areas
  
• Harvest record (required for deer and turkey)
  
• Hunter education certificate (if born after Jan 1, 1961)
  

You can purchase or renew licenses at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com.

Johns Creek Hunting Seasons

• Deer: October–January (peak rut in November)
  
• Turkey: March–May
  
• Small Game: August–February
  
• Dove: September and December
  
• Feral Hogs: Year-round on private land; seasonal on public land
  

Conclusion: Where the Suburbs Meet the Wild

While Johns Creek is a suburban sanctuary, it provides quick access to some of Georgia’s most rewarding hunting grounds. From public WMAs like Dawson Forest to upland clubs and hog-rich tributaries, the options are vast and varied. Make sure to plan ahead, respect the land, and uphold ethical hunting practices for a successful and sustainable experience.