MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES WILDLIFE & HERITAGE SERVICE

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Southern Region Public Hunting Lands

The Southern Region includes Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George's and St. Mary's counties.

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Southern Region Permit Links

  • Click here to apply for the Free Public Hunting Permit
  • Click here for instructions on how to get the Free Public Hunting Permit online
  • Click here to log in to view your current public lands reservations in the Southern Region.​

Free Public Hunting Permit Regulation Packets

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Southern Region Lotteries

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Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) Managed Deer Hunt 2026-2027

Click here to apply for the lottery


  • 2026-2027 Lottery Hunt Dates:
    • Application Deadline – October 2, 2026
    • Lottery Drawing – October 9, 2026
    • Pre-hunt Mandatory Scout Days – October 31st & November 1st, 2026
    • Hunt Day 1 – November 28, 2026
    • Hunt Day 2 – December 12, 2026
    • Hunt Day 3 – December 19, 2026
    • Hunt Day 4 – January 9, 2027
    • Hunt Day 5 – January 23, 2027


  • A Shooter Qualification Card and verification that the hunter has complied with the Hunter Education and Safety Requirement are required to participate in this hunt.
  • Hunters will be chosen by lottery. Only one application allowed per hunter. Group applications of up to three hunters will be accepted.
  • Shotguns with slugs and straight-walled cartridge rifles are now allowed during Firearms Season hunts. Ammunition and rifle must meet all regulations set forth by MD DNR for Anne Arundel County in the Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping.
  • Hunters are responsible for their own safety and the use of a tree harness is encouraged.
  • The use of scopes is encouraged.
  • The use of a portable tree stand is required.
  • Must be at least 16 years old to qualify for the hunt. Junior hunters must be accompanied by a guardian.
  • Accommodations will be made for hunters with a Universal Disability Pass that will allow them to hunt from a vehicle.
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Wildlife Management Areas

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Cooperative Wildlife Management Areas

Cooperative Wildlife Management Areas (CWMAs), are properties not owned by the Department, but has an agreement with the landowner to manage the public access. Access may be restricted to certain times of the year so you should contact the appropriate department office to learn more about a CWMA you intend to visit.

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Southern Region State Park Hunting Areas

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Southern Region State Forest Hunting Areas

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