Top Hunting Places in Lebanon, Pennsylvania

Tucked in the heart of southeastern Pennsylvania, Lebanon offers a perfect blend of rural landscapes, forested hills, and public access lands that make it one of the most attractive hunting hubs in the state. Whether you're pursuing trophy whitetail deer, chasing gobblers through oak ridges, or enjoying a peaceful morning of small game hunting, Lebanon, PA, is an excellent launchpad for any serious hunter.

Related Products

Elite Ranger Soft Rifle Case

PRICE:

Regular price $135.00

Regular price $223.00 Sale price $135.00

Unit price /  per 

Elite Strike Rifle Case

PRICE:

Regular price From $129.00

Regular price $240.00 Sale price From $129.00

Unit price /  per 

Why Lebanon is a Hidden Gem for Pennsylvania Hunters

Lebanon lies within Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 5B and 4C, which offer generous seasons and some of the highest deer densities in Pennsylvania. Its proximity to farmland, forests, and public lands ensures rich biodiversity and reliable game presence. Moreover, Lebanon’s central location places hunters within a short drive of thousands of acres of State Game Lands, state forests, and regulated county lands.

From rugged woodlots to agricultural field edges, this region supports a wide variety of wildlife and provides access to hunters of all types—riflemen, bowhunters, muzzleloader enthusiasts, and predator hunters alike.

Top Public Hunting Area: State Game Lands Number 145

Overview

Just minutes from the city center, State Game Lands Number 145 (SGL 145) is the premier hunting destination near Lebanon. It covers approximately 2,800 acres and features hardwood forests, brushy clearings, and agricultural fields that attract deer, turkey, and small game.

Game Species Found in SGL 145

• Whitetail Deer: Found throughout the woodlots and open corridors.
  
• Wild Turkey: Roost in the mature forests and travel through open strips.
  
• Cottontail Rabbit & Squirrel: Common in brush piles and edge cover.
  
• Foxes & Coyotes: Growing predator populations support winter night hunts.
  
• Woodcock and Migratory Birds: Found during fall migrations in wetter lowlands.
  

Access Points

SGL 145 is accessible via Mount Zion Road, Millardsville Road, and several gravel parking lots marked by Pennsylvania Game Commission signs. Trails, old farm lanes, and tree stands make navigation and setup relatively easy for first-time visitors.

Other Hunting Hotspots Near Lebanon

Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

A 20-minute drive southeast of Lebanon, Middle Creek WMA spans over 5,000 acres of forest and field habitat and is renowned for:

• Diverse small game and migratory bird hunting.
  
• Managed deer and turkey populations.
  
• Special waterfowl hunting zones (by permit).
  Middle Creek is a must-visit for hunters seeking seasonal variety and challenging terrain.
  

State Game Lands Number 46

Located just west in Dauphin County, SGL 46 covers more than 3,500 acres and features mixed terrain perfect for rifle and archery hunting. It’s less trafficked than some other game lands, providing a quieter experience for hunters willing to scout.

Swatara State Park

While not entirely open to hunting, designated areas within Swatara State Park allow for archery deer hunting, making it a great option for those looking to stay close to town without sacrificing wilderness feel.

Hunting Seasons in the Lebanon Area

Always consult the Pennsylvania Game Commission for current dates and unit-specific rules for WMUs 4C and 5B.

Hunting Tips for Success in Lebanon

Scout Field Edges and Transition Zones

Due to the mix of farmland and forest, deer are commonly seen feeding in fields and bedding in nearby cover. Identify trails between these zones for the best shot opportunities.

Midweek Hunts Yield Better Results

Local lands can get crowded on weekends, especially during peak rifle season. Plan hunts for midweek when activity is lower and deer movement is more natural.

Use Trail Cameras in SGL 145

Legal to use on public lands during the season, trail cams are invaluable in this area to identify patterns and determine the best times and stands to hunt.

Get Familiar with Middle Creek Regulations

Parts of Middle Creek WMA require special permits and have hunting zones based on draw or quotas. Be sure to check maps and apply early if you want to hunt waterfowl or restricted-access plots.

Where to Buy Hunting Gear in Lebanon

Local and regional outfitters are well-equipped to serve the area's dedicated hunting community:

• Lowe’s Gun Shop – Just outside Lebanon, offering firearms, optics, and reloading supplies.
  
• Cabela’s Hamburg – Around 45 minutes away, offering a full suite of gear and apparel, including Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for secure firearm transport.
• Staudt's Gun Shop – Known for custom rifle setups and hunting accessories.
  
• Walmart Lebanon – Basic ammo, clothing, and small game gear.
  

Licenses and tags can be purchased at approved vendors or online at pgc.pa.gov.

Accommodations for Visiting Hunters

Whether you're staying for the weekend or planning a longer hunt, Lebanon has multiple options:

• Motels and Inns: Affordable rates and close to key hunting areas.
  
• Rural B&Bs: For a more rustic experience with local hospitality.
  
• Cabin Rentals near Middle Creek: Ideal for group hunts or family trips.
  
• Campgrounds: Several state park and private campgrounds are open through late fall.
  

Lebanon: A Top Spot for Pennsylvania Sportsmen

Lebanon may be quiet on the surface, but it’s one of Pennsylvania’s most rewarding and accessible hunting locations. With its rich game populations, nearby forests and farmlands, and well-managed game lands, it provides ideal conditions for both veteran and beginner hunters alike.

From stalking through SGL 145’s wooded ridges to glassing field edges in Middle Creek WMA, hunters in Lebanon enjoy a wide variety of options with minimal travel and maximum results.