Top Hunting Places in Joliet, Illinois

June 12, 2025

Joliet, Illinois, may be known for its racetracks and historic downtown, but for hunters in Will County and beyond, it’s also a gateway to some of northern Illinois’ finest hunting grounds. Surrounded by diverse landscapes—from wetlands and woodlands to open fields and restored prairie—Joliet offers easy access to deer hunting, waterfowl, and upland game opportunities that rival even more remote parts of the Midwest.

This detailed guide highlights the top hunting locations around Joliet, helping both seasoned hunters and new enthusiasts plan their next outdoor adventure.

Top Public Hunting Areas Near Joliet

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

Just minutes from downtown Joliet, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is one of the most unique and expansive public hunting areas in the region. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, it spans over 20,000 acres and is dedicated to prairie restoration, making it ideal for archery-only deer hunting.

Hunting type: Archery only (no firearms allowed)
Game available: White-tailed deer, coyote, small game
Permit: Required through a lottery system
Perks: Quiet hunting experience with low competition
Highlight: Expansive prairie vistas and bison herd sightings

Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area

Located just 20 minutes from Joliet, this site is a local favorite with over 5,000 acres of land open to the public. The Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area offers some of the most diverse hunting in the state.

Game available: Pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, dove, deer
Features: Special controlled pheasant hunting (reservations required)
Seasons: Deer (archery and firearm), upland birds, and small game
Additional benefits: Dog training areas and boat access for waterfowl hunting

Private Preserves and Clubs Near Joliet

Will County Sportsman’s Club (Peotone, IL)

About 30 minutes south of Joliet, this members-only club offers a structured and well-maintained space for a variety of hunting and shooting sports.

Activities: Trap, skeet, and hunting events
Hunting: Seasonal deer and small game opportunities
Bonus: Year-round member access and shooting competitions

Brittany Shooting Park (Bunker Hill, IL)

While a bit farther—about 90 minutes from Joliet—Brittany Shooting Park offers guided upland game hunting and clay shooting ranges.

Game available: Pheasant, chukar, quail
Extra amenities: Dog handlers, on-site lodging, bird cleaning
Why go: Great for family hunts or corporate events

Waterfowl Hunting Hotspots Around Joliet

Mazonia-Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area

Just 25 minutes south of Joliet, Mazonia-Braidwood is part of the IDNR’s managed hunting areas and includes over 1,000 acres of wetlands and lakes, ideal for duck and goose hunting.

Game available: Mallards, teal, Canada geese
Permit system: Daily drawings and seasonal allocations
Facilities: Boat launches, blinds, and walk-in areas
Best time: Mid-October through December for peak migration

Lake Renwick Preserve

While Lake Renwick is primarily a bird sanctuary, portions of the preserve system near Joliet support limited hunting for small game and waterfowl, managed by the Forest Preserve District of Will County.

Permit: Required through county program
Best for: Youth hunts, small-scale waterfowl hunts
Note: Check annual public access updates before planning your trip

Upland Game & Small Game Hunting Options

Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area

About 30 minutes southwest of Joliet, Goose Lake Prairie is one of Illinois’ largest remaining prairie remnants and offers regulated upland game hunting.

Game available: Rabbit, squirrel, dove
Access: Archery deer hunting permitted in designated zones
Tips: Early morning hunts produce better results due to limited pressure

Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve

For those seeking a quick hunt close to home, Romeoville Prairie offers some small game and archery deer opportunities through Will County’s forest preserve programs.

Game available: Archery-only deer, small game
Application process: Through Forest Preserve District lottery
Highlight: Serene location with easy access from downtown Joliet

Hunting Permits, Regulations, and Licensing in Will County

If you’re planning to hunt near Joliet, ensure compliance with Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regulations:

Required licenses: Illinois Hunting License and Habitat Stamp
Special permits: Deer, turkey, and waterfowl require species-specific tags
Hunter safety: Mandatory for hunters born after Jan 1, 1980
Reporting: Successful harvests of deer and turkey must be reported within 24 hours
Local rules: Will County preserves may require additional seasonal or site-specific permits

For full regulatory details and current season dates, visit the IDNR website.

Pro Hunting Tips for Joliet Area

Scout early: Use digital tools like HuntStand or OnX to map terrain and plan blinds
Weather matters: Joliet’s conditions can swing quickly—pack waterproof gear
Midweek hunts: Avoid crowds by targeting weekdays, especially in popular public lands
Stay ethical: Respect posted boundaries, follow bag limits, and leave no trace
Pattern Your Weapon: Whether bow, shotgun, or rifle (carried securely in Tactical Soft Rifle Cases), sight-in at the range ahead of time.

Conclusion: Why Joliet Is a Prime Hunting Hub

With access to national prairies, state-managed wildlife areas, and local forest preserves, Joliet, Illinois is more than just a city—it’s a central point for hunters looking to enjoy diverse and rewarding outdoor experiences. Whether you’re into big game, migratory birds, or upland hunting, Joliet’s surrounding natural spaces deliver it all—without needing to drive hours into remote areas.

From the iconic grasslands of Midewin to the duck-filled waters of Mazonia-Braidwood, every trip out of Joliet promises an opportunity to reconnect with nature and make lasting memories.