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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    During established seasons, hunting is permitted daily on approximately 35 acres, with the exception of migratory game bird hunting which remains prohibited on Sundays. 

    Hunting Requirements

    All hunters must have a current Pennsylvania hunting license from the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

    The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Game Commission rules and regulations apply.

    Hunting Seasons at Colonel Denning State Park

    Big Game

    Small Game

    Migratory Game Bird

    Trapping

    There are no firearm restrictions at this park.

    Hunting woodchucks, also known as groundhogs, is prohibited in all Pennsylvania state parks. 

    View the hunting boundary map.

    Notes: The campground is open until end of rifle deer season in mid-December.

    There are limited hunting areas within the park but the park provides access to hunting on Tuscarora State Forest lands.

    The placement of traps is prohibited within 50 feet from the edge of all state park’s designated trails, paths, sidewalks, roads, and parking lots. 

    Hunting blinds and stands are allowed. Contact the office for additional details. 

    In state parks, the training of dogs is only permitted from the day following Labor Day through March 31 in designated hunting areas.

    This park is not a part of Pennsylvania Game Commission's Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP). 

    Hunting is also permitted on the adjacent Tuscarora State Forest.

    Firearms Safety

    Use extreme caution with firearms at all times. Other visitors use the park during hunting seasons. Firearms and archery equipment used for hunting may be uncased and ready for use only in authorized hunting areas during hunting seasons.

    In areas not open to hunting or during non-hunting seasons, firearms and archery equipment shall be kept in the owner's vehicle or enclosed trailer. Exceptions include law enforcement officers and individuals with a valid Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms are authorized to carry a firearm concealed on their person while they are within a state park.

    Hunting Statewide

    All 20 of Pennsylvania’s state forests, totaling 2.3 million acres, and 100 of the 125 state parks are open to hunting during established hunting seasons.