Top Hunting Places in Killeen, Texas

May 1, 2025

Located in the heart of Central Texas, Killeen offers a rich blend of diverse wildlife habitats, public hunting lands, and nearby private ranches, making it a prime hunting destination for both seasoned and novice hunters. With its proximity to Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) and expansive rural landscapes, Killeen attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top hunting spots in Killeen, Texas, and the surrounding areas, along with the best game, local hunting regulations, and tips for a successful trip.

Best Game to Hunt Near Killeen

Central Texas is a haven for a wide range of game species. In and around Killeen, hunters can expect:

White-tailed Deer – Plentiful during deer season, especially in forested areas and managed ranches.
Feral Hogs — Huntable year-round without a bag limit on private land.
Rio Grande Turkey — Spring and fall seasons bring great opportunities.
Dove and Quail — Popular during early fall with strong populations.
Predators – Coyote and bobcat hunting is permitted and helps manage the ecosystem.
Waterfowl – Ducks and geese in wetland areas near Lampasas River.

Top Public Hunting Areas Around Killeen

1. Fort Cavazos (Fort Hood) Military Reservation

Fort Cavazos offers one of the largest public hunting areas in Central Texas. Managed in coordination with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and military officials, it provides diverse game opportunities. The hunting zones are rotated seasonally to allow game populations to thrive.

Location: Adjacent to Killeen
Game: Deer, feral hogs, turkey, dove
Access: Requires special permits and safety briefings

Note: All hunters must undergo a background check and adhere to base regulations.

2. Stillhouse Hollow Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this area offers great waterfowl and upland bird hunting near Stillhouse Hollow Lake. Permit holders must access designated hunting zones. The area is also known for its stunning sunrise waterfowl hunts during the winter.

Location: Just south of Killeen
Game: Dove, duck, small game
Habitat: Wetlands, open fields, and forested tracts

3. Chalk Ridge Falls Park Area (Hunting Nearby)

While Chalk Ridge Falls itself is a hiking and nature area, many adjacent private lands and ranches open for fee-based hunting. These ranches typically offer guided hunts or day leases, with high success rates for deer and hog hunting.

Private Ranch Hunts Near Killeen

4. Double J Whitetails Ranch

This high-fence ranch provides an opportunity to hunt trophy-class whitetail and exotic game like axis deer and blackbuck antelope. With experienced guides and lodging options, Double J is a premium choice for hunters looking for an all-inclusive experience.

Location: Kempner, TX – 25 minutes from Killeen
Specialty: Trophy whitetail deer, exotics
Hunting Style: Guided rifle and bow hunting

5. Renegade Ranch

For affordable hog hunts just minutes from Killeen, Renegade Ranch offers night vision and thermal equipment rentals, making it ideal for hunters seeking action-packed nocturnal hunts.

Location: Copperas Cove, TX
Game: Hogs, turkey, and varmint
Packages: Day leases and night thermal hog hunts

6. Xtreme Hog Hunting – Lampasas

If you’re looking to experience the thrill of feral hog hunting, this ranch delivers with high volume, low-pressure hunting grounds and access to state-of-the-art equipment.

Location: 30–40 minutes from Killeen
Specialty: Night hog hunts
Experience: Over 2000 acres, guided and semi-guided options

Best Times of Year to Hunt in Killeen

Deer Season: Late October through early January (Archery starts earlier in October)
Dove Season: September and December splits
Turkey Season: April for spring; limited fall dates
Hog Hunting: Year-round on private land
Waterfowl Season: November through January

Licensing and Permits for Killeen Hunters

To legally hunt in Texas, hunters must possess a valid Texas hunting license, available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Depending on the game, additional tags or endorsements may be required:

Deer: General or archery license with antler restrictions
Turkey: Upland game bird stamp
Migratory Birds: Federal duck stamp and HIP certification
Hogs: No season or bag limit, but landowner permission is mandatory

All hunters born after September 2, 1971 must complete a Hunter Education Training Course.

Tips for a Successful Hunting Trip in Killeen

Scout Early: Visit your location beforehand to check for game trails, feeding areas, and blind setups.
Use the Wind: Central Texas is known for shifting winds – always hunt downwind for better chances.
Thermal Gear for Hogs: Night hunts are most effective when using thermal scopes or monoculars.
Stay Hydrated: Even during cooler months, Central Texas heat can be deceiving.
Know Local Laws: Killeen spans multiple counties—always verify county-specific regulations.

Local Outfitters and Gear Shops

Gander Outdoors – Killeen

From ammo to camo, this outdoor superstore offers comprehensive gear for any species you’re targeting. Their staff is composed of experienced hunters who provide insight into current local game activity.

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Convenient and affordable, Academy has multiple locations near Killeen with a wide selection of hunting supplies.

Safety and Conservation in Central Texas

We encourage all hunters to participate in ethical hunting practices.Respecting bag limits, property boundaries, and hunting seasons ensures wildlife sustainability for future generations. The TPWD offers regular updates on population trends and conservation initiatives – stay informed, and be a steward of the land.

Final Thoughts

Killeen, Texas sits at the crossroads of wild opportunity and structured hunting experiences. Whether you prefer public lands, guided private ranches, or high-octane thermal hog hunts, this area has it all. The combination of accessibility, game diversity, and outdoor culture makes Killeen a hidden gem for hunters in Texas.

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