Hunting

Hunting activities in Washington, including Gifford Pinchot National Forest lands, are regulated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. A majority of hunting seasons in Washington range from August 1 to mid-December each year, with a few seasons going past the first of the year.

For licenses, regulations, seasons, and other hunting information please visit: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

• Hunting seasons & regulations in Washington.
• Places to go hunting in Washington. Find Game Management Unit maps within Gifford Pinchot National Forest in WDFW's Region 5.

All hunting in Game Management Unit 522 Loo-Wit is closed with the exception of Elk and Mountain Goat hunting by Special Permit Only, see the WDFW website for more information. One of these special areas, the Mudflow Unit, is closed to all public entry annually from Dec. 1 through April 30 to protect elk from being disturbed during a critical part of the year.

Contact:
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(360) 696-6211
TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov

Motor Vehicle Use on the Forest: Please only drive on designated routes and areas as shown on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). This free map shows all designated routes and areas open to motor vehicle use on the Forest. All motor vehicle operators are required to know and follow the regulations displayed on the MVUM. 

• Download a .pdf version of the Motor Vehicle Use Map.
• Download an electronic copy of the Motor Vehicle Use Map to your mobile device via Avenza.
• Obtain a hard-copy map at Forest Service district offices and local outdoor stores.

Please follow dispersed camping guidelines and the 14-day stay limit.

Tread Lightly! Quick Tips for Responsible Hunting: Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the great joys of hunting. Learn what you can do to help keep our forests beautiful and enjoy a safe and responsible hunting trip.