Local Travel Features

Land Between the Lakes Opens Additional Areas to Archery Deer Hunting

November 30, 2022 | Press Release from LBL

The USDA Forest Service will allow archery deer hunting in select areas of Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL) typically off-limits to hunting beginning Thursday for wildlife conservation and population management.

Hunters can access the Southern Nature Watch Demonstration Area, Brandon Spring Group Center, and Energy Lake, Hillman Ferry, and Piney campgrounds Dec. 1 through Jan. 16 for archery deer hunting. Archery hunters are encouraged to take antlerless deer in these areas.

"Hunting is an important component of our wildlife management program here at LBL. Opening these areas to archery deer hunting is of mutual benefit because it helps us manage our deer populations while providing more access to hunters," said John Westbrook, environmental stewardship staff officer with the USDA Forest Service.

Archery deer hunters may hunt within the facilities' boundaries and away from campsites and structures in the five identified areas. Maintenance staff will continue working throughout the winter at facilities. Hunters are advised to use extra caution when hunting in these areas.

Hunting is not permitted within 150 yards of any road, facility, building, occupied area, or within 200 yards of any wildlife refuges. Hunters age 16 and older must possess all state required licenses and permits for the state being hunted. LBL Hunter Use Permits can be purchased online 24/7 under Reservations and Permits, or year-round at Golden Pond Visitor Center and Wranglers Campground.

Year-round camping opportunities are available at Wranglers and self-service campgrounds. Camping is also permitted in basic and dispersed camping areas with the purchase of a basic/dispersed camping permit. Hunting area maps can be located online at www.landbetweenthelakes.us/maps.

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