Hunters from across Ontario venture into the Ganaraska Forest throughout the year. Ganaraska Forest users should be aware that hunting is permitted in the West and East Forest areas as well as part of the Central Forest area. Forest maps indicate the no hunting zone within the Central Forest.(Click here to download map)
Wild turkeys, deer and game birds are among the more common pursuits. The shotgun season for deer generally runs during the first two weeks of November. The wild turkey season runs from late April until the end of May. These two seasons are the most popular times of year for hunting in the forest.
The discharge of firearms is prohibited except for the purpose of hunting. Construction of tree stands is prohibited.
Hunters must abide by all provincial hunting regulations including obtaining valid permits and licenses. All hunters must comply with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and all applicable municipal laws. The Ministry of Natural Resources’ Hunting Regulations Summary should be consulted for a complete listing of seasons and regulations that pertain to hunting.
For a copy of the Hunting Regulations Summary, contact the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority at 905-885-8173 or email info@grca.on.ca or The Ministry of Natural Resources at 705-755-2001.
Travelling East from Toronto
(about 1 hour from east end)
Travel east on 401 past Bowmanville
Exit at Highway 35/115 North
Travel approximately 16 km north to Kirby
Turn right (east) at Kirby onto Durham Regional Road 9 (Ganaraska Road)
Travel approximately 10 km to the first "S" bend in the road
(Ganaraska Forest Centre sign on the south side )
Turn left (north) onto Cold Springs Camp Road
Proceed 4 km to the Forest Centre