Shawnee National Forest
The Shawnee National Forest covers more than 280,000 acres of southern Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers and is the largest block of public land in the state. Its mix of forested hills, bluffs, oak flats, and bottomland in a region famous for big whitetails makes it a strong mobile/saddle target, and the wilderness-style terrain offers a true backcountry feel for hunters willing to walk in. Permanent stands are prohibited, which fits a hang-and-hunt saddle approach perfectly.
Hours / Access
Open to the public year-round; legal hunting hours are generally about 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset (IDNR sets exact times). Permanent deer stands are not permitted on national forest land, and off-road motorized vehicle use is prohibited.
Free public access, but you must hold a valid Illinois hunting license AND obtain an Illinois deer permit in advance from IDNR. No permanent stands; pack-in/pack-out portable setups only.
Seasons
- Archery: Long archery deer season, typically opening October 1 and running into mid-January (with short closures around firearm segments).
- Firearms: Two short firearm deer segments, generally in late November and early December.
- Muzzleloader: A short muzzleloader-only segment, typically in December.
Species
- White-tailed deer
Official Resources
Local Guides & Outfitters
IDNR Deer Hunting & Permits
Shawnee NF is primarily self-guided DIY public hunting; no specific verified outfitter found for the forest itself, so use the official state hunting/permit resource.
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Strictly Outdoors
Harrisburg, IL