Black Hills National Forest 2018 Hunting Reminders
BLACK HILLS, SD. – Hunting on the Black Hills National Forest can be a rewarding experience and U.S. Forest Service officials want to remind hunters of guidelines designed to make their hunting trips safe and enjoyable.
“It’s the hunter’s responsibility to know travel and hunting regulations while hunting on the Black Hills National Forest,” said Scott Jacobson, Public Affairs Officer.
South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department manage big game on the Black Hills National Forest and annual hunting regulations and information are available on their websites at: https://gfp.sd.gov/hunt/ and https://wgfd.wyo.gov/hunting.
With many developed camping areas and easy access roads, the Forest provides abundant hunting access and is an excellent place for first-time hunts. Dispersed camping is also allowed in most areas for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. Call a local Forest Service office for more information.
If arranging for guided hunting services on the Black Hills National Forest, be sure to ask whether your prospective outfitter/guide holds a valid Forest Service permit. The Black Hills National Forest has authorized a variety of outfitter/guides to operate under Special Use Permits. A list of outfitters can be found on the Black Hills National Forest website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/passes-permits/event-commercial/?cid=stelprdb5111744
Hunters are also reminded to follow South Dakota and Wyoming travel regulations.
Off-highway vehicle (OHV) travel is allowed only on roads and trails designated open to motorized use. Black Hills National Forest offices offer free maps showing routes open to motorized travel. These maps are also available on the Black Hills National Forest website.
Some areas may not be safe to hike in during hunting season. Please review the maps of game management units and/or stop by a local Forest Service office to find out which areas are best to avoid during the season.
The Black Hills National Forest contains dead trees, killed by the mountain pine beetle. Locate vehicles and campsites away from dead trees; they can fall without warning. It is also recommended to carry an ax or saw in case a tree falls across a road. Please remember these, and other hazards that may be present on the Forest, so that your time spent there is safe and enjoyable.
The Black Hills National Forest wishes hunters a safe and enjoyable experience throughout the season.
For more information on the Black Hills National Forest, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills.
