The hunts are two and one-half days of amazing scenery and are known as some of the best managed hunts in the country. While the white-tailed deer herd is native to the area, the elk herd started with introductions in 1911-1912 when Rocky Mountain elk were reintroduced from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The original herd was wiped out by indiscriminate hunting before this area was protected as a wildlife refuge. Today, careful management ensures their survival, controls their numbers, and allows a portion to be harvested.

The elk and deer hunts on the refuge are a cooperative effort between the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.

How to apply for the hunt 

Buy your hunting or fishing license online  

For more information, check out the Guide to Hunting on National Wildlife Refuges