Top Hunting Places in McKinney, Texas

Texas is a hunter’s paradise, and McKinney—nestled in the heart of Collin County—is no exception. With its blend of urban accessibility and nearby wilderness, McKinney offers a wealth of prime hunting locations for seasoned sportsmen and enthusiastic beginners alike. From expansive ranches to regulated public lands, hunters can enjoy diverse game, well-maintained facilities, and scenic Texas landscapes.

Best Deer Hunting Ranches Near McKinney, TX

1. Triple J Ranch – Anna, TX

Located just northeast of McKinney, Triple J Ranch is renowned for its trophy whitetail deer hunting. With high-fence acreage, the ranch ensures quality genetics, guided hunts, and luxurious lodges.

• Game available: Trophy whitetail, axis deer, blackbuck antelope
  
• Season: Year-round for exotics; fall/winter for whitetail
  
• Amenities: Lodging, meal packages, guides, and cleaning stations
  

2. Safari Texas Ranch – Sherman, TX

For those seeking a Texas safari-style experience, Safari Texas Ranch offers exotic hunts within an hour of McKinney.

• Game available: Aoudad, fallow deer, elk, red stag
  
• Notable feature: Spot-and-stalk and blind setups
  
• Best for: Experienced hunters seeking variety
  

Public Hunting Lands Near McKinney

 

3. Caddo National Grasslands (part of LBJ National Grasslands)

About an hour and a half north, Caddo National Grasslands offers public land hunting managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

• Game available: Whitetail deer, wild turkey, feral hogs, small game
  
• Permit required: Texas Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH)
  
• Hunting method: Walk-in only; primitive access
  

4. North Texas Municipal Water District Land

In select controlled-access zones around Lavon Lake, hunting is permitted with a drawn permit.

• Game available: Dove, rabbit, squirrel
  
• Bonus: Great spot for teaching youth hunters
  
• Distance from McKinney: Less than 30 minutes
  

Best Dove Hunting Areas Around McKinney

5. Big Lake Bottom Wildlife Management Area

Although a bit of a drive (2 hours southeast), Big Lake Bottom WMA offers outstanding dove and waterfowl hunting.

• Season: September (early dove season)
  
• TPWD permit: Required
  
• Terrain: Mix of agricultural fields and wetlands
  

6. Private fields in Collin County

Many local landowners offer day leases for dove season. These fields are well-managed and close to home.

• Booking tip: Contact local outfitters or search platforms like Hunting Locator
  
• Amenities: Typically minimal—Bring your own gear and supplies
  

Where to Hunt Feral Hogs Near McKinney

7. Blackland Outfitters – Celina, TX

Feral hogs are an invasive species in Texas, and Blackland Outfitters provides night hunts with thermal optics just north of McKinney.

• Method: Thermal night hunting, stand hunting
  
• Available year-round – no season or bag limit
• Great for: Hunters who want action and meat
  

8. Denton County Hog Hunts

Ranches around Denton, just west of McKinney, are increasingly opening up for semi-guided hog hunts.

• Pricing: Affordable group rates
  
• Highlight: High success rate due to abundance of hogs
  

Waterfowl Hunting Opportunities Close to McKinney

9. Lake Ray Roberts – Jordan Unit

Waterfowlers can head to Lake Ray Roberts, especially during early teal and late duck seasons.

• Species: Teal, mallards, gadwall
  
• Permit: TPWD Annual Public Hunting Permit
  
• Bonus: Boat access and decent shoreline spots
  

10. Lake Lavon

Lake Lavon is a hidden gem for duck hunters during the winter months. With limited pressure, early mornings often yield good harvests.

• Distance: Just 20–25 minutes southeast of McKinney
  
• Access: Via designated zones with permits
  
• Best time: Late November through January
  

Bowhunting Opportunities Around McKinney

11. Trophy Trails Ranch – Bonham, TX

This ranch specializes in archery-only whitetail and exotic hunts. They tailor terrain setups and offer 3D practice ranges.

• Game available: Axis deer, ram, wild boar
  
• Bonus: Elevated stands and natural blinds
  
• Ideal for: Archery clubs or individual bowhunters
  

12. Archery-Only Public Units (TPWD)

Select Texas WMAs offer bow-only seasons, a fantastic way to extend your hunting opportunities.

• Perk: Less crowded than general rifle zones
  
• Nearby units: Cooper WMA, Caddo National Grasslands
  
• Season: Opens in early October
  

Hunting Gear and Supply Stores in McKinney

Before heading out, stock up at some of the top hunting supply shops in McKinney:

• Cabela’s – Allen, TX (10 minutes south) – Firearms, optics, camo, ammo
  
• Academy Sports + Outdoors – McKinney – Budget-friendly gear
  
• Murdoch’s Hunting Supplies – Local supplier with a reputation for personalized service
  

Best Seasons for Hunting in the McKinney Area

 

Booking Hunts Near McKinney: What You Should Know

• Private land hunts generally offer the most reliable success and comfort.
  
• Public land is budget-friendly but requires more scouting and preparation.
  
• Local guides are often worth the investment, especially for hog or exotic hunts.
  
• Book early during peak season – November hunts fill up fast in Texas!

Why McKinney is a Top Hunting Destination in Texas

With its strategic location in North Texas, McKinney gives hunters quick access to public WMAs, high-quality ranches, and exotic game operations. Whether you’re planning a father-son weekend, a solo bowhunting trip, or a guided whitetail hunt, McKinney provides the perfect mix of accessibility, variety, and wild Texas charm.