Top Hunting Place in Yonkers, New York

Nestled in the southern part of Westchester County, Yonkers, New York, may not seem like an obvious destination for hunting enthusiasts at first glance. However, within a short drive from its bustling downtown, you’ll uncover access to some of the most rewarding and legally accessible hunting grounds in the Hudson Valley region. Whether you're after white-tailed deer, wild turkey, or waterfowl, the area surrounding Yonkers offers a range of options for every level of hunter.

Why Yonkers Is a Gateway to Premier Hunting Grounds

Although Yonkers itself is an urban environment, it serves as an excellent launching point for hunting in Southeastern New York. Being conveniently located near vast forest preserves, protected wetlands, and state-managed lands, hunters based in Yonkers enjoy access to a variety of ecosystems that support big game, small game, and migratory birds.

Accessibility and Licensing

One of the major advantages of hunting near Yonkers is the ease of access to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) managed lands. With a proper hunting license and species-specific tags, hunters can enjoy the benefits of regulated game populations and maintained habitat areas. New York’s licensing system also allows for seasonal permits, and junior hunting licenses, making it ideal for family outings or introducing new hunters to the sport.

Top Hunting Areas Within Driving Distance of Yonkers

1. Blue Mountain Reservation (Peekskill, NY)

Located roughly 30 minutes from Yonkers, Blue Mountain Reservation is a 1,500-acre park that offers bowhunting opportunities during the designated deer season. It's ideal for archery hunters looking for terrain with dense woods, elevation changes and ample cover.

Key Species:

• White-tailed deer
  
• Eastern wild turkey
  
• Gray squirrel
  

Hunting Tips:
Bring a climbing tree stand for better visibility and scent control. Stick to dawn and dusk hours for maximum deer movement.

2. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (Cross River, NY)

As Westchester County’s largest park (over 4,300 acres), Ward Pound Ridge provides an exceptional hunting experience for bowhunters. The park is meticulously managed and requires an additional Westchester County Parks hunting permit, but its remoteness and population control initiatives make it worth the paperwork.

Key Species:

• White-tailed deer (archery only)
  
• Rabbit
  
• Coyote (with proper license)
  

Pro Tip:
Use topo maps and GPS coordinates to identify ravines and water sources that funnel game movement.

3. Stewart State Forest (Orange County, NY)

A 6,700-acre state forest located about an hour’s drive from Yonkers, Stewart State Forest is a top destination for both rifle and shotgun hunters. With multiple access points and well-marked trails, this forest supports diverse hunting experiences for everything from waterfowl to deer.

Key Species:

• Wild turkey (spring and fall seasons)
  
• Woodcock and grouse
  
• Waterfowl (ducks and geese)
  
• Deer and black bear (in limited areas)
  

Best Gear to Bring:

• Duck decoys and calls for waterfowl hunting
  
• Blaze orange gear during rifle season for safety
  
• GPS-enabled hunting apps for tracking game movement and waypoints
  

Hunting Seasons and Regulations for Westchester Region

Understanding seasonal game windows is crucial for a productive hunt. the New York DEC’s Region 3 (which includes Yonkers and surrounding counties) maintains clear hunting schedules that differ by species and method (archery, muzzleloader, firearms).

Hunting Calendar Highlights:

Make sure to check daily bag limits, zone-specific rules, and blaze orange requirements before your trip.

Essential Gear for Hunting Near Yonkers

For Big Game (Deer/Bear):

• Compound or crossbow (in bow-only zones)
  
• Tree stand or ground blind
  
• Scent-blocking clothing
  
• Tactical Soft Rifle Cases (for secure firearm transport)
  
• Rangefinder for accurate distance measurements
  

For Waterfowl:

• Waders and camo gear
  
• Duck/goose calls
  
• Portable decoy spread
  
• 12-gauge shotgun with steel shot
  

For Small Game:

• .22 rifle or air rifle (if permitted)
  
• Squirrel call and camo jacket
  
• Rabbit distress call
  
• Compact backpack for mobility
  

Tips for a Successful Hunt Around Yonkers

 

Scout Early

Pre-season scouting helps identify bedding areas, food sources, and travel corridors. Use trail cams if possible to track animal patterns.

Hunt the Weather

Pressure systems affect animal movement. A drop in barometric pressure before a storm often triggers deer and turkey activity.

Use the Wind

Always hunt with the wind in your face. Game animals rely heavily on scent and can detect human presence from far away.

Go Midweek

Avoid the crowd by hunting on Tuesdays through Thursdays, when public lands are less congested and game is less pressured.

Safety and Ethics in the Field

As always, ethical hunting is the backbone of wildlife conservation. Follow Leave No Trace principles, practice clean shots, and always retrieve what you shoot. Hunters are ambassadors of the outdoors and should embody responsibility, sportsmanship, and conservation values.

Carry a first aid kit, inform someone of your hunting location and return time, and familiarize yourself with basic wilderness survival skills in case of emergency.

Hunting Lodges and Outfitters Near Yonkers

While DIY hunting is popular, there are also local outfitters that offer guided hunts, private land access, and lodging packages. For those new to the sport or looking for a premium experience, this route offers peace of mind and increased success rates.

• Westchester Hunting Club – Private access, safety courses, and mentorship
  
• Hudson Valley Outfitters – Deer and turkey guided hunts
  
• Orvis Sandanona Shooting Grounds – offers upland bird hunting and range shooting nearby

Conclusion: A Hidden Gem for Urban Hunters

Yonkers may not be the first place that comes to mind for hunting in New York, but its proximity to diverse hunting environments, robust public land access, and strong conservation programs make it an underrated yet powerful basecamp for any Northeast hunter. Whether you’re chasing the rustle of deer through the hardwoods or setting decoys in early-morning wetlands, the broader Yonkers region delivers the wilderness with convenience and charm.