Hunting

Hunter at the Missouri National Recreational River

NPS Photo

Missouri National Recreational River (MNRR) has a wide array of wildlife. Part of the culture and recreational values tied to the park involve hunting. Many areas throughout the MNRR provide scenic views and rugged landscapes for an excellent hunting experience perfect to test one’s skills.

Key Information

For any questions concerning hunting within the Missouri National Recreational River, please contact the park by calling 605-665-0209 or by email.

Hunting is allowed at Bow Creek and James River Island Recreation Areas within the specified seasons. Hunting and trapping are permitted at Goat Island Recreation Area within the specified seasons. Site specific information can be reviewed in the Superintendent’s Compendium. For information about state regulations please visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks websites.

Hunting is not allowed at Green Island and Mulberry Bend to prevent visitor use conflicts and ensure public safety.

For non-NPS properties within the MNRR, check with the site manager for site-specific information.

Hunters and trappers need to be familiar with the regulations based upon the hunting license required to hunt in a particular area. If an area accepts hunting licenses from either South Dakota or Nebraska, only one may be used at a time, with rules tied to the license being applicable.

• Bow Creek Recreation Area – Nebraska license required
• Goat Island – Nebraska or South Dakota license accepted
• James River Island (upland and attached sandbars) – South Dakota license required

Hunters should be aware that the following are required under federal regulation.

• Attaching non-cellular trail cameras with nails, bolts, or screws to trees is prohibited as this can injure trees (36 CFR §2.1). Attaching non-cellular trail cameras to posts or park structures is prohibited (36 CFR §2.31).
• Permanent decoys are prohibited (36 CFR §2.22, 2.31)
• Constructing permanent hunting stands and blinds is prohibited (36 CFR §2.22, 2.31).

Failure to remove property may result in impoundment and then be disposed of if abandoned and not claimed (36 CFR §2.22).

Hunting at Other Parks
Hunting in a National Park is a unique visitor experience, but also a tradition that has been passed down through the generations to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Discover other national parks that allow hunting.