The beautiful and mysterious swamp of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best-protected wilderness areas in the southeastern United States. The refuge has become a popular destination for paddlers who camp out on platforms along wilderness canoe trails. Hunters can also experience this special place, with three hunting units in the upland portion of the refuge.
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 deer, feral hog, turkey, rabbit and squirrel.
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 deer and feral hog. Sign-in/sign-out required.
DEER
Archery - Either Sex: Sept. 14, 2024 - Nov. 12, 2024
Okefenokee NWR - Suwannee Canal Unit
The Suwannee Canal Unit hunt permits for deer and feral hog are issued by lottery. The hunt is held along the Swamp Island Wildlife Drive. Quota applications (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2439, Hunt Application—National Wildlife Refuge System) accepted Aug 15-Sept 16, 2024.
DEER
- Firearms (Shotgun/muzzleloader ONLY) Either Sex: Oct. 25-26, 2024 (Q30) (B)
- Mobility Impaired and Youth Hunters - (Shotgun or muzzleloader ONLY) Either Sex: Oct. 25-26, 2024 (Q10) (B)
