​Hunting at Forbes State Forest

Hunting for deer, turkey, grouse, squirrels, rabbits, and black bear is a popular use of the forest during designated seasons. Other than a few safety zones around buildings and picnic areas, hunting and trapping are permitted throughout the state forest.

Timber management activities conducted by The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry can create areas of lush forest growth and excellent wildlife habitat.

Maps that highlight areas within the Forbes State Forest where management activities have occurred are available from the district office, or can be downloaded from our maps web page.

Chronic Wasting Disease

Chronic Wasting Disease, which is an always fatal disease to deer and elk, has been detected in all or portions of Forbes State Forest.

Hunters should be aware of special rules and regulations that apply to deer harvested within the Disease Management Area. It is recommended that those deer be tested for the disease.

To learn more about chronic wasting disease in state forests, please download the Chronic Wasting Disease in State Forests fact sheet (PDF).

More information about chronic wasting disease can be found on the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture websites.

In addition, the Pennsylvania Game Commission provides information about deer processors in the Disease Management Area.​