Hunting

On the hunt.

NPS/Chickasaw National Recreation Area

 

Hunting is a permitted activity under the enabling legislation for Chickasaw National Recreation Area (P.L. 94-235, §3).

Hunting seasons are determined by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Visit their website for the most up to date information on seasons and required licenses. Follow state regulations for anything not specifically addressed by our regulations below.

A variety of game including quail, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, dove, ducks, geese, and deer may be found here. However, due to the small size of the area and heavy hunting pressure, success can be limited. Trapping is prohibited.

 

Hunting Regulations

The current Oklahoma Hunting Regulations provide state hunting information and may provide special regulations for Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Most state hunting regulations are applicable in Chickasaw National Recreation Area with the following exceptions or items of special emphasis:

• Trapping is prohibited.

• The use of artificial light is prohibited.

• Baiting of wildlife, including salt or mineral blocks, is prohibited.

• Feral hogs may be taken year-round, provided that when taken outside of deer or turkey seasons, they may be taken with shotgun or archery only.

• Damage to trees such as cutting limbs and using nails or screws is prohibited.

• All tree stands must be portable, cannot be permanently affixed to trees, and must be affixed in a manner that does not damage trees. Tree stands must be removed immediately from the park following the closure of the hunt in which they were used.

• Hunters must have a valid resident or non-resident hunting license or proof of exemption. Hunting licenses, special tags and waterfowl stamps are available from local businesses.

• Displaying wildlife carcasses or remains is prohibited in campgrounds and developed areas.

• Quail, snipe, woodcock, rabbit and squirrel are closed to hunting during the first nine days of deer gun season.

• Species other than deer and turkey may be hunted in accordance with state regulation/season, provided that outside of deer seasons or turkey seasons, they may be taken only with shotgun, archery or 22 rimfire.

Firearms

Federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws to legally possess firearms in the park. Federal regulations prohibit the discharge of firearms within the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, except in the lawful taking of game animals. All sighting-in and target practice must be done before entering the recreation area since there is no designated target practice area. Fully automatic weapons are prohibited.Federal law prohibits the possession of firearms in designated “federal facilities” in national parks (for example, nature/visitor centers, offices, ranger stations or maintenance facilities/buildings) and these places are marked with Firearms Prohibited signs.

Boundaries

Chickasaw National Recreation Area is surrounded by private lands. State law requires that permission of the landowner or the custodian be obtained before entry on public lands. Therefore, it is important that hunters be familiar with the recreation area boundaries. Not all the recreation area is open to hunting. All developed areas are closed, and some areas are restricted to archery and shot shells only. The map found at the bottom of this webpage indicates which areas are closed or restricted. Please note the 2025 boundaries have changed.

Camping and Vehicles

Off-road travel is not permitted in the recreation area. Camping is available throughout the year in designated campgrounds. All vehicles are restricted to established roads.

Safety Tips

• Never point a gun at anything you do not want to shoot.

• Be aware of your intended game species and what lies beyond it.

• Treat every gun as if it was loaded.

• Always be sure that the barrel and action are clear of obstruction.

• Carry your gun so that you can control the direction of the muzzle.

• Keep safety on until you are ready to shoot.

• Never climb a tree, fence, or other obstacle with a loaded gun.

• Never shoot at a flat, hard surface, or the surface of the water.

• Unattended guns should be unloaded.

Feral Hogs

Report feral hog sighting in the park at go.nps.gov/feralhogs

In Case of Emergency

Park personnel are on duty to make your visit safe and enjoyable.
In case of an emergency, call 911. For ranger assistance call 580-622-3918

 

2025 Hunting Map

Valid for the Fall 2025 - Summer 2026 hunting season

 

Paper copies are available at the Travertine Nature Center

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