Hunting
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1937 and is one of the best-protected wilderness areas in the southeastern United States. Hunters can experience this special place, with three hunting units in the upland portion of the refuge. Hunting is permitted on approximately 3,822 acres during specific times of the year.
You must possess and carry a valid hunting license while hunting on the refuge. Digital licenses are accepted, but cell service may vary across the refuge. You should download your license(s) to your phone or print a paper copy of your license so you have a copy of your license with you at all times.
COMING SOON: Information about applying for the 2025-2026 Suwannee Canal Recreation Area Hunt
2024-2025 Hunt Schedule
- (B) – Bonus Hunt
- (S) – Sign in at Dixon Memorial WMA
- (Q) – Quota Lottery Hunt
Okefenokee - Cowhouse Unit
The Cowhouse Unit offers hunts in conjunction with the adjacent Dixon Memorial Wildlife Management Area. These walk-in hunts are held during state seasons for white-tailed deer, feral hog, turkey, rabbit and squirrel.
WHITE-TAILED DEER
- Archery - Either Sex: Sept. 14-21, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Oct. 6-11
- Firearms - Either Sex (B): Sept. 26-28, Nov. 7-9
- Firearms - Either Sex (S): Oct. 3-5, Nov. 27-Dec. 1
- Firearms - Buck Only (S): Oct. 12-27
TURKEY
- Apr. 5 - May 15, 2025
SMALL GAME
- Squirrel: Aug. 15-Feb 28 (closed during Nov. 22-23, Dec. 6-7)
- Quail: Nov. 9-Feb 28 (closed during Nov. 22-23, Dec. 6-7)
- Rabbit: Nov.16-Feb 28 (closed during Nov. 22-23, Dec. 6-7)
- Feral Hogs may be taken May 16-31, no dogs allowed. No coyote hunting.
Okefenokee - Pocket Unit
The Pocket Unit offers a general access archery hunt for white-tailed deer and feral hog. Sign-in/sign-out required.
WHITE-TAILED DEER
Archery - Either Sex: Sept. 14, 2024 - Nov. 12, 2024
Okefenokee NWR - Suwannee Canal Unit
The Suwannee Canal Unit hunt permits for white-tailed deer and feral hog are issued by lottery. The hunt is held along the Swamp Island Drive.
WHITE-TAILED DEER
- Firearms (Shotgun/muzzleloader ONLY) Either Sex: Oct. 25-26, 2024 (Q30) (B)
- Mobility Impaired and Youth Hunters - (Shotgun/muzzleloader ONLY) Either Sex: Oct. 25-26, 2024 (Q10) (B)
