The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is offering hunters a chance to participate in a special controlled deer hunt at a Champaign County state nature preserve during the 2026-2027 hunting season.
The ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves says these special hunts are being held in areas where high deer populations have created concerns for native plant communities due to increased browsing. Permits for the hunts will be awarded through a lottery system.
Champaign County Special Deer Hunt
Davey Woods State Nature Preserve (Archery)
Hunters interested in the special archery hunt at Davey Woods State Nature Preserve must attend a mandatory meeting on:
Saturday, August 23 at 11:30 a.m.
The meeting will be held at the preserve parking area located at:
7661 Lonesome Road
St. Paris, OH 43072
Following the meeting, hunters will have the opportunity to purchase a $5 lottery ticket (cash only) to be entered into the drawing for a hunting permit.
Hunters who are selected will be assigned a specific hunting time and must participate in a pre-hunt orientation. Hunters may bring a partner, but the partner does not need to attend the drawing or orientation.
To participate, hunters must have a valid 2026-2027 Ohio hunting license. Additional regulations and requirements will be discussed during the orientation meeting.
The ODNR says these controlled hunts help manage deer populations and protect native plant communities while providing hunting opportunities in select state preserves.
For additional information on the Davey Woods hunt and other ODNR special deer hunts, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
