Hunting
Trapping
Accessible Hunting
Fuelwood Permits
Shooting Range Permits
Hunting
Public hunting is available at Elk Neck State Forest during current hunting seasons. Hunters must have a valid Maryland hunting license unless exempt under state law and must follow all applicable seasons, bag limits, weapon restrictions, fluorescent color requirements, and public land regulations.
Current statewide requirements are available in the
Guide to Hunting and Trapping in Maryland. Hunters should also review the
Elk Neck State Forest Trail Map before visiting, as public access and hunting opportunities vary by tract.
The Arboretum area includes managed hunting acreage, but safety zones have been established around the Arboretum Trail area and adjacent properties. Hunting is not permitted in areas marked as safety zones on the map or posted in the field.
Arboretum Hunting Area Map
Arboretum Hunting Area Information
Trapping
Trapping rules may vary by location and season. Before setting traps at Elk Neck State Forest, contact the Forest Office to confirm where trapping is available and what permits or permissions may be required.
Furbearer trapping is not permitted in the Elk Neck Arboretum hunting area. Hunters and trappers should review maps carefully and avoid all posted safety zones.
Accessible Hunting
Accommodations for hunters with disabilities are available at several sites on the Main Tract. Contact the Forest Office for current locations, access information, and any additional requirements before visiting.
Fuelwood Permits
Fuelwood collection is available by permit in designated areas of Elk Neck State Forest. The fuelwood program is intended for personal use only; wood collected through the program may not be resold.
The Trails Area includes down, damaged, or standing dead trees within 200 linear feet of main driving trails, except in areas excluded by the permit or map. Permit holders must stay within assigned areas and follow all permit conditions.
Fuelwood Program Map
Fuelwood permit conditions include:
- A daily permit is required.
- Permit holders may not exceed one standard load per day.
- A standard load is one pickup load of stacked wood, not exceeding cab height and not exceeding one cord.
- Permit holders are limited to no more than five standard loads per calendar year.
- Fuelwood operations are not permitted from September 1 through January 31.
- Weekend and after-hours operations are not permitted.
- Dump trucks and other heavy service vehicles are prohibited.
- Splitting material on Elk Neck State Forest is prohibited.
Contact the Forest Office at 410-287-5675 for current fuelwood availability, permit scheduling, payment instructions, and operating conditions.
Shooting Range Permits
Shooting range permits are handled through the Elk Neck State Forest Shooting Range Complex. The range page includes current range status, hours, permit fees, and range rules.
Shooting Range Complex
