The Best Places to Hunt Around Los Angeles, CA

When people think of Southern California, they generally think of the sprawling city of Los Angeles or the sunny beaches of San Diego. Only those who have ventured out of these bustling metropolises know that there are plenty of great places for hunting in Southern California. 

So whether you’re looking for some public land on which to hunt, or you’re thinking about getting your own piece of land for your hunting adventures, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn all about the best places to hunt in Southern California. 

Hunting in Los Angeles: Angeles National Forest

The Angeles National Forest is a massive 694,187 acres, covering the San Gabriel Mountain range and with specific hunting areas that are open all year long. A Forest Service survey performed in the year 2000 showed that the Angeles Forest attracts more than one hundred thousand hunters annually. Primarily located in Los Angeles County, this National Forest’s location means you don’t have to go far to find a nice hunting spot in Los Angeles. 

While deer hunting is the most popular in the Angeles National Forest, you can also hunt doves, rabbits, and pigs. During the general deer season, you’re free to hunt the mule, whitetail, sika, fallow, axis, sambar, and blacktail — provided you have the appropriate license and tags. 

You must purchase a hunting license and tags that are specific to the kind of game you’re looking to hunt. And while the Angeles National Forest boasts some year-round hunting, it all depends on what you’re after. There are certain designated areas of the forest where hunting is allowed, so it’s important to have a map whenever you go out hunting. 

Of course, some people prefer to purchase raw land near the Angeles National Forest so they can hunt on their own property and even have the possibility of drawing more tags than they could without their own land. 

Hunting Near Los Angeles: Los Padres National Forest

For those who don’t mind going a little further out from LA, Los Padres National Forest is another excellent spot for hunting in Southern California. Located near Santa Barbara, this stretch of wild land features stunning vistas, breathtaking cliffs, and plenty of wildlife for both hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Hunting in this part of Southern California is a seasonal activity that, like all other hunting on public land in California, requires hunting licenses. Depending on the season, you can head to the Los Padres National Forest to bag big game such as deer, wild boar, and black bears. Other hunting options include turkey, doves, quail, rabbits, and even pigeons. 

If you’d rather do your hunting on your own property, check out our map of California land for sale. You could have your own private piece of land on which to build a hunting lodge or just set up a tent when you want to get away from the city. 

Hunting in Southern California: San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County offers many places for hunting during the year. One of the most popular destinations for hunting and camping is the San Bernardino National Forest. There are big game hunting areas all around this national forest, including the Big Bear Lake Recreation Area, the Lake Arrowhead area, and the Barton Flats area. 

You can also hunt small game during the appropriate seasons. Plus, there are some great fishing areas throughout San Bernardino County. 

Other Southern California hunting spots include places like the Santa Rosa and the San Jacinto Mountains, and Palomar Mountain. 

But before you head out to one of these spots, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re going hunting in Southern California. 

Tips for Hunting in SoCal

Check out these tips before heading out on a hunting trip in Southern California.

1. Purchase a Hunting License and Tags 

A hunting license is a requirement for hunting in Los Angeles County and other areas around Southern California. You may need tags, depending on the type of hunting you’re planning on doing. You can buy licenses from sporting goods stores and other qualified game department agents or you can buy directly from the California fish and game department.

For big game hunting, you’ll always need a tag, which is best to apply for before June 1st. There are three categories: Unrestricted, Restricted, and Premium. Each of the tags has a fee and gives you a particular set of hunting privileges.

You can also apply for a second tag. This should only be after you have acquired the first one, but you can still apply for the two tags at the same time.

2. Carry a Map

Ensure that you carry a map that guides you in the hunting zones since you are only allowed to hunt in the zoned areas. Portions of the Fish and Game Code do not allow the use of firearms in some parts of L.A. County and other non-designated areas. You may find that you are only allowed to bow-hunt in these areas. Call (626) 574-5200 for more information on hunting closures due to forest fires or bad weather.

3. Dress Well and Come Prepared

Even when you are in good shape, the extreme temperature changes that characterize the hunting areas in Southern California can take you by surprise. You can take a reconnaissance hike to familiarize yourself with the area and note the obstacles you’ll meet on your hunting trip. 

Dressing in layers will help you keep warm while good hiking boots and some thick socks will keep your feet from blisters and sores. Although Southern California is generally warm all year long, at times it may get cold when the sun sets. Dressing in layers will help you to adjust your clothing as the weather changes.

4. Check Before You Go

It is a good idea to check with local Fish and Wildlife authorities for the latest information! Get a big game booklet from the California Fish and Game Department. It shows you the process of acquiring a license and registering for a tag. Antelopes, sheep, all elk, and most deer are lottery draws. You can buy some of the deer zones to the south over-the-counter after drawing. You should mark your calendar since the draw deadline is June 2 every year.

The Best Hunting Spots in Southern California: Conclusion

There are plenty of public hunting lands to choose from in Southern California. Depending on what you want to hunt, you’ll need to apply for tags for the lottery drawing. This is mostly necessary for big game, but some small game species may also require additional tags. While owning raw land in California doesn’t allow you to hunt without a license or tags, it does give you a place of your own to hunt on. You could also make money by allowing hunters onto your land during hunting season. For more information about buying hunting land in California, contact one of our Land Specialists today!