Top Hunting Places in Valley Stream, New York

May 30, 2025

Valley Stream, New York, located on the western edge of Nassau County, might seem far removed from the world of outdoor pursuits, but its strategic location makes it an excellent launching point for hunters looking to access Long Island’s most productive public wildlife management areas. While hunting is prohibited directly within the village due to its suburban setting, Valley Stream hunters can reach some of New York’s top archery and waterfowl zones within an hour’s drive. Whether you prefer hunting white-tailed deer, calling in wild turkey, or setting up a layout blind for ducks and geese, Valley Stream puts you close to the action.

Top Hunting Areas Near Valley Stream

1. Rocky Point Natural Resources Management Area

Approximately 60 miles east of Valley Stream, Rocky Point NRMA spans over 5,000 acres of dense woods and pine barrens. This archery-only hunting area is a favorite among Long Island bowhunters and provides exceptional opportunities for deer and small game.

Game Species: White-tailed deer, turkey, rabbits, squirrels
Permit Required: Managed Land Access Permit (MLAP) + NYS hunting license
Best Time to Hunt: Early morning and dusk during rut season
Terrain: Sandy trails, thick brush, pine forests

Its structured entry system and large expanse ensure low hunter density, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet and focused hunt.

2. Otis Pike Preserve (Calverton)

Located roughly 75 minutes from Valley Stream, Otis Pike Preserve is one of the largest DEC-managed hunting zones on Long Island, offering vast woodlands, open fields, and remote hunting pockets ideal for both deer and turkey hunters.

Game Species: White-tailed deer, wild turkey, upland birds
Gear Tip: Bring a climber stand and scent control gear—mature bucks are cagey
Access Note: MLAP required; be mindful of posted boundary markers

Otis Pike also provides excellent pheasant hunting during the DEC’s stocking season.

3. Sarnoff Preserve

If you’re seeking a quieter, less-trafficked option than Rocky Point or Otis Pike, David A. Sarnoff Preserve is a great alternative. It’s open to hunting during regulated seasons and supports a healthy population of turkey and deer.

Species: Turkey, deer, small game
Strategy: Hunt edge cover and field transitions
Best Use: Solo or weekday hunts for minimal pressure

4. South Shore Bays & Inlets (Waterfowl Hunting)

Valley Stream’s proximity to the South Shore coastline gives waterfowl hunters access to premier migratory bird hunting across bays, inlets, and tidal marshes near Freeport, Baldwin, and Merrick.

Species: Black duck, mallard, scaup, brant, Canada goose
Season: October to January
Regulations: NYS license, HIP registration, federal duck stamp
Access Methods: Kayak, small boat, or guided charter

On cold fronts and during migration peaks, these waters teem with fast-flying birds, offering high-action hunts for experienced shooters.

Best Game Species to Hunt Near Valley Stream

White-Tailed Deer

Long Island’s deer population is robust, and the DEC-managed lands offer some of the best archery-exclusive deer hunting in the state.

Season: October through December
Tactics: Tree stand placement near bedding/feeding corridors
Popular Locations: Otis Pike, Rocky Point

Wild Turkey

Both spring and fall seasons offer exciting opportunities to bag a Long Island gobbler, especially in open fields bordered by thick woods.

Spring Season: Month of May
Fall Season: October
Best Practice: Use diaphragm or box calls and realistic hen decoys

Waterfowl

Long Island’s South Shore lies within the Atlantic Flyway, offering one of the most active waterfowl migration paths in the Northeast.

Species: Divers and dabblers including pintail, widgeon, teal
Gear Needs: Layout blinds, decoys, and camo waders
Hunting Zones: Freeport Creek, Jones Beach Inlet, Hempstead Bay

Upland and Small Game

While deer and ducks steal the spotlight, pheasants, rabbits, and squirrels provide great sport and are ideal for newer hunters or dog handlers.

Pheasant Stocking Areas: Otis Pike, Rocky Point
Season: October to February
Recommended Firearm: 20 or 12 gauge with #6 shot

Hunting Licenses and Required Permits

All hunters based in Valley Stream must secure the following to legally hunt on Long Island:

NYS Hunting License (resident or non-resident)
Managed Land Access Permit (MLAP) for DEC lands
Federal Duck Stamp + HIP Registration for waterfowl
Back Tag (must be visibly worn in the field)
Bowhunter or Trapper Education Certificate, if applicable

Licenses and permits can be purchased online via DEC’s website or at select local retailers in Nassau County.

Top Gear for Long Island Hunts

Soft Bow Case or Rifle Case: For legal transport and safety
Climbing Tree Stand: Essential for mobile setups in deer woods
Waders: Crucial for waterfowl hunters on marshy terrain
Waterproof Backpack: Store calls, snacks, maps, and tags
OnX Hunt or GPS App: Helps identify public vs. private boundaries

Why Valley Stream is a Smart Base for Hunters

1-Hour Drive to Top DEC Hunting Zones
Direct Access to South Shore Waterfowl Habitats
Local Outdoor Shops and Archery Ranges for Gear Prep
Ideal for Both Weekend Hunts and Early-Morning Quick Trips

Valley Stream provides the perfect balance of urban convenience and outdoor access, making it a strong contender for hunters who value efficiency, strategy, and variety.

Conclusion

Though it may be nestled in the suburban sprawl of Long Island, Valley Stream, New York, is a surprisingly effective base for hunters targeting deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game. Within a short drive, you can be perched in a tree stand at Rocky Point, wading through duck marshes near Freeport, or calling in a tom at Otis Pike. With smart planning, proper permits, and the right gear, Valley Stream delivers exceptional hunting access just beyond the city line.