Top Hunting Spots in Pennsylvania: Where Sportsmen Flock for Game and Scenery

8th Aug 2025

Pennsylvania has long been a cornerstone of American hunting culture. With over 4 million acres of public land, rich wildlife populations, and a deep-rooted hunting tradition, the Keystone State draws hunters from across the region and beyond. Whether you're chasing whitetail deer, black bear, wild turkey, or small game, Pennsylvania offers some of the finest hunting opportunities in the Northeast.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular places to hunt in Pennsylvania:

State Game Lands 13 (Sullivan and Columbia Counties)
Nestled in the northeastern part of the state, State Game Lands 13 is a sprawling 49,000-acre tract renowned for its rugged terrain and healthy deer population. With a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, and open areas, it's a haven for whitetail hunters and offers opportunities for bear and turkey as well.

Why it’s popular:

- Large, remote area with low hunting pressure in some parts.
- Excellent for archery and rifle seasons.
- Nearby camping and scenic views of waterfalls and forests.

Allegheny National Forest (Northwestern PA)
As Pennsylvania’s only national forest, the Allegheny spans over 500,000 acres across four counties. It's prime territory for black bear and white-tailed deer, and also offers grouse, turkey, and coyote hunting.

Why it’s popular:

- Vast, varied landscape with plenty of public access.
- Black bear hunting is particularly strong here.
- Opportunities for multi-day backcountry hunting trips.

State Game Lands 145 (Berks County)
Just a short drive from Philadelphia, this game land is popular among southeastern Pennsylvania residents. Despite its proximity to urban areas, SGL 145 is known for productive deer and turkey seasons.

Why it’s popular:

- Easily accessible for weekend hunts.
- Great for beginners or hunters without time to travel far.
- Good population of deer and small game.

Tioga State Forest (Tioga County)
Located in the Northern Tier, Tioga State Forest is part of the Pennsylvania Wilds and offers remote hunting opportunities. The area is known for its steep ridges and deep valleys, which are ideal for mature bucks and black bear.

Why it’s popular:

- Remote, scenic, and wild – perfect for traditionalists.
- Excellent archery hunting, especially for trophy deer.
- Less pressured due to its rugged access.

Bald Eagle State Forest (Central PA)
Stretching across multiple counties, Bald Eagle State Forest features more than 193,000 acres of public land. It's home to deer, turkey, bear, and grouse, making it a multi-species hunter’s paradise.

Why it’s popular:

- Wide range of terrain, from mountain ridges to open valleys.
- Popular for fall turkey and bear hunting.
- Accessible yet wild enough to escape crowds.

Michaux State Forest (South-Central PA)
Straddling Adams, Cumberland, and Franklin Counties, Michaux is a favorite for those in south-central Pennsylvania. It offers a balanced mix of hardwood forests and clearings that support deer and turkey.

Why it’s popular:

- Historic and scenic with proximity to Gettysburg.
- Diverse terrain supports many game species.
- Well-maintained access roads and trails.

Tips for Hunting in Pennsylvania

Licenses and Seasons: Make sure you're up to date on Pennsylvania Game Commission regulations. Seasons and bag limits vary by species and region.
Public Land Etiquette: Be respectful of other hunters and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Plan Ahead: Some popular areas can get crowded during peak season, so scouting and planning ahead gives you an edge.

Final Thoughts

Pennsylvania remains one of the best states in the East for public land hunting. Whether you prefer the solitude of the Tioga wilderness or the accessibility of Berks County woodlots, there’s something here for every kind of hunter. With its rich game populations and scenic backdrops, Pennsylvania continues to be a favorite destination season after season.

Happy hunting – and stay safe in the woods!