Hunting

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The vast prairies of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands are open for public hunting under state rules and regulations.  Whether you like to hunt waterfowl over decoys in the wetlands of the Sheyenne, deer and elk in the badlands of the Little Missouri, or watch your dog pointing a sharptail grouse in the rolling prairies of the Grand River and Cedar River National Grasslands, endless opportunities await you.  Please select a grassland for more information about hunting in that area.

National Grasslands are open for public hunting under the North Dakota Game and Fish or the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks regulations.

  • Tree stands are allowed and may be placed for durations consistent with the time Periods provided in the ND Game and Fish Deer Hunting Guide. However, trees must not be damaged by nailing, cutting of limbs, or use of screw in steps or spikes. Stands and steps not removed by January 31st are considered abandoned property and are subject to removal and confiscation by USDA Forest Service. Tree stands left unattended on national Forest System Lands require an identification tag displaying the owner's name, address and telephone number.
  • Hunting over bait on National Forest System lands is prohibited. Hunting over bait is defined as the placement and/or use of bait(s) for attracting big game and other wildlife to a specific location for the purpose of hunting. Baits include, but are not limited to, grains, minerals, salts, fruits, vegetables, hay, or other natural or manufactured foods.

Please be aware that motorized vehicle use (except snowmobiles) on the Dakota Prairie Grasslands is allowed on approved roads and trails only - off-trail/cross-country driving is not allowed, except for limited administrative or management purposes. This includes the Little Missouri, Sheyenne, Grand River and Cedar River National Grasslands, and Denbigh Experimental Forest.

Motor-vehicle use maps are available for the Sheyenne, Grand, and Cedar River National Grasslands, and Denbigh Experimental Forest & Souris Unit.  Maps are available on this website or at the Sheyenne Ranger District and Grand River Ranger District offices. 

SPECIAL NOTE: Weather on the National Grasslands can change in minutes. Always pack proper gear for any eventuality as it can go from +50F to -20F overnight during the hunting seasons.