Top Hunting Place in Mount Vernon, New York

May 26, 2025

Mount Vernon, New York, might be nestled within the bustling suburbs of Westchester County, but don't let its urban edges fool you — this region offers access to some of the finest hunting grounds in the Hudson Valley. Whether you're seeking white-tailed deer, wild turkey, or small game, the area surrounding Mount Vernon provides an impressive blend of rich forest cover, regulated hunting lands, and proximity to essential hunter services. In this comprehensive guide, we reveal the top hunting spots near Mount Vernon, the game species you can expect, and what you need to plan a successful expedition.

Best Public Hunting Areas Near Mount Vernon, NY

1. Blue Mountain Reservation – Peekskill, NY

Located just 25 miles from Mount Vernon, Blue Mountain Reservation is a popular destination for hunters looking to target white-tailed deer and small game. Spanning over 1,500 acres, the terrain is rugged, with dense hardwood forests, rolling hills, and open meadows. This makes it ideal for bowhunting and firearm season alike.

Key Features:

Bowhunting and shotgun permitted during the season
Well-marked trails for navigation
Nearby check-in stations and hunter parking zones

2. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation – Cross River, NY

Westchester County’s largest park, Ward Pound Ridge, covers over 4,300 acres of mixed terrain. While not open to all public hunting year-round, the county operates a special permit-controlled deer management program, typically in the fall.

Game Species:

White-tailed deer (seasonal permits)
Occasional turkey sightings

Permit Info:

Applications for hunting access must be submitted in advance
Only archery is permitted, reducing pressure on game populations and enhancing safety

3. East Hudson Wildlife Management Area

Part of the New York State DEC’s managed lands, this wildlife management area near Putnam County is only about an hour’s drive from Mount Vernon and offers prime hunting for turkey, pheasant, rabbit, and deer.

Why It’s a Hunter’s Favorite:

Open for big and small game
Trapping and furbearer permits available
Detailed public maps and topographic guides available online

Private Land Hunting and Leases in the Region

For those who prefer less crowded, exclusive access, several private landowners and hunting clubs in Westchester and nearby Putnam County offer seasonal leases. These tracts are often better managed, with baiting stations, blinds, and limited member access, increasing your odds of success.

Benefits of Private Land Hunting:

Controlled pressure on wildlife
Safer, more predictable terrain
Often includes access to pre-scouted blinds and tree stands

We recommend checking out lease listings via platforms such as BaseCamp Leasing or Hunt Lease Network, both of which list private parcels across New York.

What Game Species Are Available Near Mount Vernon, NY

White-Tailed Deer

Season: Archery (Oct–Dec), Regular (Nov–Dec), Muzzleloader (Dec)
Weaponry: Bow, Shotgun, Muzzleloader

Mount Vernon-area hunters enjoy steady populations of white-tailed deer, particularly in forested zones and WMA buffer areas. Local authorities conduct population control programs, making these areas ideal for ethical and productive hunting.

Eastern Wild Turkey

Season: Spring (May), Fall (October–November)
Calls and Lures: Diaphragm calls and decoys effective in early morning hours

Turkeys thrive in the mixed hardwood forests north of Mount Vernon. Although less numerous than deer, their elusive nature makes the hunt both challenging and rewarding.

Waterfowl and Migratory Birds

Several wetlands and reservoirs within driving range offer limited but exciting opportunities for duck and goose hunting, especially during seasonal migrations.

Top Nearby Waterfowl Areas:

Tarrytown Reservoir Wetlands
Hudson River tributary zones

Essential Gear for Hunting in Mount Vernon Vicinity

Whether hunting from the ground or in a blind, having the right gear is critical for navigating rugged northeast terrain.

Recommended Gear Checklist:

Soft Rifle Case (42” or larger) – for safe and discrete firearm transport
Trail Camera – for tracking patterns in private or public lands
Lightweight Treestand or Ground Blind
Thermal Base Layers and Waterproof Outerwear
Portable GPS or OnX Hunt App for public land overlays

Licensing and Legal Requirements

All hunters must carry a valid New York State hunting license and follow the latest DEC regulations. For those hunting on public lands, special permits may also be required, especially in Westchester County-controlled spaces.

License Types:

Junior Hunting License (ages 12–15)
Regular Hunting License (16+)
Muzzleloading and Bowhunting Add-ons

Mandatory Certifications:

Hunter Education Certificate
Bowhunter Education Course (for archery season)

Always consult the New York DEC Website for up-to-date season dates, bag limits, and permit applications.

Top Hunting Outfitters and Resources in the Area

If you're a new hunter or looking to gear up locally, Mount Vernon and neighboring towns offer access to experienced outfitters.

Recommended Shops & Services:

Precision Shooting Supplies – Mount Vernon, NY: Offers scoped rifles, ammunition, and optics
Bob’s Gun & Tackle – Hastings-on-Hudson, NY: Great for hunting apparel, bows, and licenses
FS9 Tactical Online Store – Premium soft rifle cases and field bags

Tips for a Successful Hunt Near Mount Vernon

Scout in advance: Use weekends before the season to monitor signs and game trails
Go mid-week: Public lands experience less pressure during weekdays
Check weather and wind: Especially critical for bowhunting
Follow ethics and etiquette: Respect private boundaries and report any poaching or violations to DEC

Final Thoughts

Although Mount Vernon is situated close to the urban sprawl of New York City, it grants access to a surprising number of rich hunting locations, both public and private. From deer to turkey to small game, the diversity and challenge of these regional grounds cater to every skill level. With proper preparation, ethical hunting practices, and the right equipment, your next hunt in the Mount Vernon region can be both productive and memorable.