Top Hunting Place in New York City, New York

May 22, 2025

While New York City may be known for its iconic skyline and dense urban sprawl, the surrounding regions of the Big Apple offer surprising access to some of the best hunting opportunities in the Northeast. From wooded preserves just beyond the five boroughs to regulated zones with abundant game populations, NYC-based hunters have no shortage of accessible terrain and wildlife diversity to explore.

Best Hunting Areas Near New York City

Sterling Forest State Park – Tuxedo, NY

Located just over an hour north of Manhattan (approximately 40 miles northwest). Sterling Forest State Park is a premier hunting destination for NYC residents. Encompassing over 21,000 acres of hardwood forest, wetlands, and rolling hills, it offers ideal terrain for deer, turkey, and small game.

Permitted hunting: archery and firearms (seasonal)
Target species: white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, and rabbit
Access requirements: valid NYS hunting license and a free Sterling Forest Hunting Permit

The park has strict regulations to balance conservation with recreation. Hunters benefit from the controlled access, which helps manage game populations and maintain a quality hunting experience.

Rockland County – Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, the second-largest state park in New York, lies within driving distance of NYC and boasts 200 miles of hiking trails and over 44,000 acres of forest and lakes. Certain zones within the park are designated for regulated hunting, mainly during archery season.

Best For: Experienced bowhunters seeking white-tailed deer
Seasonal Access: Fall through early winter
Permit Info: Managed by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission

This area is favored for its terrain complexity and low-pressure hunting zones due to the restrictions placed on firearm use.

Blue Mountain Reservation – Westchester County

Situated in Peekskill, Westchester County, the Blue Mountain Reservation is a 1,500-acre park that allows bowhunting only, making it a quiet haven for archery enthusiasts.

Species Available: White-tailed deer
Regulations: Strictly archery; crossbows and firearms are not permitted
Proximity: Just 45 miles from NYC

This location offers a peaceful hunting environment close to the city, with a well-managed deer population and scenic woodland.

Long Island – Suffolk County Public Lands

Suffolk County, just a short drive or train ride from NYC, offers one of the most abundant public land opportunities for hunting in New York State.

Featured Spots: Otis Pike Preserve, Rocky Point Natural Resources Management Area, and Westhampton Dwarf Pine Plains
Game Available: Turkey, deer, pheasant, and waterfowl
Seasonal Access: Firearms permitted in certain zones during open season
Permit Required: NYS license + Suffolk County Archery/Fall Firearms Permit

Long Island’s public hunting lands are well-regulated and consistently stocked, offering both novice and experienced hunters ample opportunity for harvest.

Top Game Species to Hunt Near NYC

White-Tailed Deer

The most sought-after species in the region, white-tailed deer can be found in almost every listed location. With both bowhunting and firearm seasons, New York State offers flexible opportunities for harvesting.

Best Season: Mid-October to mid-December (varies by region)
Tips: Scout early and apply for DMU permits to increase antlerless harvest chances.

Wild Turkey

Spring and fall turkey seasons draw many hunters to the surrounding preserves and forests. These birds are elusive, making them a thrilling challenge for even seasoned hunters.

Best Location: Sterling Forest and Suffolk County
Calling Tip: Invest in a diaphragm call for realism and hands-free operation.

Small Game: Rabbit, Squirrel, and Pheasant

Small game hunting is ideal for those new to the sport or looking for quick, low-stakes outings.

Pheasant Hunting: Particularly strong in Suffolk County thanks to NYSDEC stocking programs
Rabbit & Squirrel: Blue Mountain and Rockland County zones offer thick cover and high visibility

Waterfowl

Though rare within the city limits, waterfowl hunting thrives in the tidal estuaries and coastal preserves near Long Island.

Popular Locations: Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge and Otis Pike Preserve
Gear Required: Waders, decoys, and a valid Federal Duck Stamp

Essential Licenses & Regulations for NYC Hunters

New York State requires hunters to carry proper licenses and adhere strictly to regional regulations. Here's a breakdown:

Basic Requirements:
- NYS Hunting License
- Safety Certificate (for hunters born after Jan 1, 1949)
- Species-specific tags (e.g., Deer Management Permits)
- Zone-specific access permits (e.g., Sterling Forest, Suffolk)
City Restrictions: Firearms discharge is prohibited within NYC. Hunters must travel outside the five boroughs for all forms of legal hunting.

Best Time of Year to Hunt Near NYC

Game Species	Prime Hunting Season	Weapon Type Allowed
White-tailed Deer	October – December	Archery & Firearms (zone-dependent)
Wild Turkey	April – May, October	Shotgun & Bow
Small Game	October – February	.22 Rifle, Shotgun, Bow
Waterfowl	November – January	Shotgun only

Planning ahead by reviewing NYSDEC hunting calendars and local regulations ensures legal compliance and maximizes success rates.

Hunting Gear and Supplies Near NYC

Before heading out, NYC hunters can gear up at nearby tactical and outdoor retailers, such as:

FS9 Tactical (Online – Ships NYC-wide): MOLLE gear bags, Tactical Soft Rifle Cases, and field accessories
Bass Pro Shops – Bridgeport, CT
Dick’s Sporting Goods – White Plains, NY

Don’t forget essentials like blaze orange apparel, scent blockers, climbing sticks, and field dressing kits. For those using archery equipment, ensure your broadheads comply with NY regulations.

Tips for Successful Urban-Proximate Hunts

Scout Early: Use digital tools like OnX Hunt and HuntStand to identify land boundaries and game trails.
Go Midweek: Avoid crowds by hunting Tuesday–Thursday mornings.
Follow Scent Control Practices: Especially in high-pressure areas, odor can make or break your hunt.
Pack Light: Accessibility can be a challenge; gear that’s modular or MOLLE-compatible will save effort and time.

Conclusion: Hunting Adventure Awaits Just Outside NYC

Despite being one of the world’s busiest metropolises, New York City offers quick access to world-class hunting opportunities. With scenic forests, robust wildlife populations, and well-managed public land just an hour away, there's no excuse for staying indoors during hunting season. Whether you're an archery enthusiast or a seasoned rifle hunter, the areas around NYC deliver variety, accessibility, and a true Northeast hunting experience.