Turkey Run State Park in Indiana conducts controlled deer management hunts to maintain a balanced ecosystem. These hunts are an essential part of the park’s conservation efforts, and they provide a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and tour planners to experience the park in a different way.
Dates for the 2021 Deer Management Hunts
The 2021 deer management hunts at Turkey Run State Park are scheduled for the following dates:
- Early Hunt: November 15th and 16th
- Late Hunt: November 29th and 30th
These dates are subject to change, so it’s important to check the park’s website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information.
Safety Zones and Rules
To ensure the safety of both hunters and park visitors, Turkey Run State Park has established several safety zones and rules for the deer management hunts. These include:
Safety Zones
- Marked with yellow caution tape
- Loaded firearms are not permitted in these areas
Hunting Hours
- ½ hour before sunrise until 4:00 p.m. EST (3:00 p.m. CST) on the days of the hunt
Scouting Hours
- 8:00 a.m. – dusk for those utilizing the property’s defined trail system
Park Boundaries
- Flagged with pink ribbon
- Hunters must know these boundaries and confine all hunting within them
Field Dressing
- Must occur at least 50 feet from any road or trail
- Entrails must be covered with leaf litter
Retrieval
- Hunters are responsible for retrieving their deer from the field and bringing them to the check station prior to leaving the park
Checking In and Retrieving Deer
Hunters who successfully harvest a deer during the management hunts at Turkey Run State Park must follow specific procedures for checking in and retrieving their deer.
Check Station
- Located at the Nature Center of Turkey Run State Park
Deer Check-In
- Hunters must bring their harvested deer to the check station prior to leaving the park
Additional Information
For those planning to attend the deer management hunts at Turkey Run State Park, there are a few additional details to consider:
Lodging
- No camping available at Turkey Run State Park during the deer reduction hunts
- Participants may consider camping at Shades State Park, which is located nearby
Park Closure
- The park will be closed to the general public during the hunt periods
By understanding the dates, safety zones, rules, and procedures for the deer management hunts at Turkey Run State Park, state park touring enthusiasts and tour planners can better plan their visits and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.