COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Natural Areas and Preserves has announced special archery deer hunts at nine picturesque locations along the Little Miami, Stillwater, and Big and Little Darby state scenic rivers. These controlled hunts aim to manage deer populations and mitigate their impact on native plant communities.
Hunters interested in participating must attend mandatory in-person meetings at each location. During these meetings, they can purchase $5 tickets for a chance to secure a hunting permit. Hunters wishing to apply for multiple sites must attend each meeting and purchase a ticket for each location. Mail-in entries will not be accepted.
Permits will be awarded through a random drawing held during these meetings. Those selected will have the opportunity to choose a two-week hunting period. An orientation immediately following the drawing will provide details on special regulations. Successful applicants may bring a partner, who does not need to attend the drawing or orientation.
Hunters are required to present a valid 2024-2025 hunting license to purchase tickets. Given potential internet connectivity issues at some locations, it is advisable to either save a digital copy of the license directly to a phone or bring a paper copy.
Drawing Locations and Dates:
- Stillwater River Hunts:
- Location: The Barn at Stillwater Prairie, 9750 State Route 185, Covington
- Date: Thursday, August 15, at 6:30 p.m. (Tickets available from 5:30-6:20 p.m.)
- Abshire-Graves (Darke County)
- Cool-Davis (Miami County)
- Big and Little Darby Creek Hunts:
- Location: Plain City Youth Agriculture Building, Pastime Park, 370 N. Chillicothe Street, Plain City
- Date: Thursday, August 22, at 6:30 p.m. (Tickets available from 5:15-6:20 p.m.)
- Terra Nova (Union County)
- Milford Center (Union County)
- Agnes Andreae and Little Darby Forrest preserves (Madison County)
- Little Miami River Hunts:
- Location: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Caesar Creek Visitors Center, 4020 North Clarksville Road, Waynesville
- Date: Thursday, August 29, at 6 p.m. (Tickets available from 5:15-6 p.m.)
- Deerfield Gorge (Warren County)
- Caesar Creek (Warren County)
- Hall’s Creek Little Miami River Access (Warren County)
- Roxanna (Greene County)
For additional information on hunting seasons and regulations, contact 800-WILDLIFE or visit wildohio.gov.
The ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves is committed to preserving Ohio’s natural heritage and managing its state nature preserves and scenic rivers. This year marks 75 years of the ODNR’s dedication to protecting and enhancing Ohio’s natural resources. For more details, visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
