Top Hunting Places in Williamsport, Pennsylvania

June 9, 2025

Located in the heart of Lycoming County and bordered by the scenic Appalachian foothills, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is not only famous as the home of the Little League World Series—it also serves as a premier hunting destination in North Central Pennsylvania. Surrounded by millions of acres of public land, dense hardwood forests, and abundant wildlife, Williamsport is a haven for sportsmen seeking a truly wild and rewarding hunting experience.

Why Williamsport is a Hunter’s Paradise

Williamsport is strategically located near vast stretches of state game lands, the Tiadaghton State Forest, and private tracts of land enrolled in Pennsylvania’s Hunter Access Program. This region is part of Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 3B and 4D, both known for their trophy deer populations, healthy black bear numbers, and diverse game species. The rugged terrain, mountain streams, and oak ridgelines provide perfect cover and forage for game, making it one of the most productive hunting zones in the state.

Top Public Hunting Area: State Game Lands Number 75

Overview

State Game Lands Number 75 (SGL 75) is one of the largest and most renowned public hunting areas in the Williamsport region. It spans more than 25,000 acres, offering extensive hunting opportunities across a diverse landscape of hardwoods, thickets, wetland corridors, and reclaimed logging roads.

Target Species

Whitetail Deer: Thriving in oak ridges and agricultural edges.
Black Bear: Frequently harvested during the fall season, especially in remote hollows.
Wild Turkey: Commonly seen during spring gobbler season, roosting in mature stands.
Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock: Found in regenerating cutovers and brush areas.
Coyotes and Bobcats: Increasing in number and a growing focus for predator hunters.
Squirrels and Rabbits: Abundant throughout the forest understory.

Access Points

SGL 75 can be accessed via multiple public roads including Route 44, Waterville, and several pull-off areas along Little Pine Creek Road. Terrain varies from flat bottomlands to steep ridges, so hunters should be prepared with proper maps, boots, tactical soft rifle cases, and gear for hiking.

Other Excellent Hunting Areas Near Williamsport

Tiadaghton State Forest

Covering over 146,000 acres, Tiadaghton State Forest stretches west of Williamsport into Clinton and Potter counties. This forest is open to hunting and is home to some of Pennsylvania’s largest and most remote wilderness areas. Tiadaghton is ideal for archery hunters and those looking to escape hunting pressure on more accessible game lands.

State Game Lands Number 133

Located south of Williamsport near Elimsport, SGL 133 offers 5,000 acres of rolling forest with excellent deer and turkey populations. The land is less steep than other game lands in the region, making it great for still-hunting and mobile setups.

Little Pine State Park

While primarily a recreational area, hunting is permitted on designated sections of the park, particularly during archery season. The surrounding forests and nearby streams create a productive habitat for deer and turkey.

Seasonal Hunting Guide for Williamsport Area

Species	Typical Season (Check Annual Regulations)
Whitetail Deer	Archery (late Sept–Nov), Rifle (late Nov–Dec)
Black Bear	Archery (Oct), Muzzleloader/Rifle (Nov)
Wild Turkey	Spring (April–May), Fall (Oct–Nov)
Small Game	Squirrel & Rabbit (Oct–Feb), Grouse (Oct–Dec)
Waterfowl	Varies by zone (Oct–Jan)
Coyotes & Predators	Year-round, including night hunting with permit

WMUs 3B and 4D often have extended deer seasons due to high population levels, giving hunters additional opportunities.

Tips for Successful Hunting Around Williamsport

Scout Smart, Hunt Remote

Because the area includes large tracts of land, focus on locating travel corridors between bedding and feeding areas. Use GPS tools like OnX, HuntStand, or topo maps to avoid high-pressure zones and find secluded hollows, benches, and saddles.

Prepare for Mountain Terrain

Many hunting locations near Williamsport feature steep ridges and deep drainages, which can be physically demanding. Wear rugged boots, layer your clothing, and plan to pack game out over long distances.

Timing is Everything

During rifle deer season, plan to hunt weekdays or the second week to avoid crowds. For bear season, prioritize remote ridges or thick laurel patches where bears tend to bed during daylight.

Where to Gear Up in Williamsport

Williamsport offers multiple trusted sporting goods stores for outfitting your hunt:

Pine Creek Outfitters – Great for outdoor gear, licenses, and maps.
Susquehanna Trail Gun Shop – Specializes in firearms, ammo, and accessories.
Bass Pro Shops – Harrisburg (2 hours away) – Ideal for full equipment needs before season starts.

Licenses and bear or turkey tags can also be purchased online through the Pennsylvania Game Commission or at local authorized retailers.

Accommodations for Visiting Hunters

Whether you’re planning a quick hunt or a week-long backcountry adventure, Williamsport has a variety of lodging options:

Budget Hotels: Hampton Inn, Comfort Inn, and Quality Inn all cater to outdoor travelers.
Cabin Rentals: Rustic cabins near Little Pine Creek and Slate Run are great for extended stays.
Camping: Tiadaghton State Forest and several nearby parks allow dispersed or primitive camping, perfect for rugged hunters.

Williamsport: A Wild, Rewarding Hunting Destination

In an era where accessible public land is increasingly rare, Williamsport remains a crown jewel of North Central Pennsylvania hunting. With massive game lands, consistent wildlife populations, and rugged terrain that rewards effort and skill, it’s no wonder seasoned hunters keep returning season after season.

Whether you're stalking a mountain buck at dawn, calling in a longbeard under a hemlock canopy, or glassing a logging cut for bear, the woods of Williamsport offer an authentic and challenging hunting experience few places in the state can match.