Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation | Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

Attention Photographers!

The entry period is now open for Outdoor Oklahoma magazine's Readers' Photography Showcase competition! Submit your best images by April 15.

Submit Photos

Photo:Stephen Ofsthun (2025 RPS Winner)

Explore Oklahoma Wildlife

From forests to prairies: explore Oklahoma’s wildlife with our field guide.

Photo:Stephen Ofsthun

Explore Oklahoma’s Wild Side

Celebrate Oklahoma’s wildlife. Get stories, updates, and ways to help with conservation through the Wild Side newsletter.

Photo:Christian Gockel

Shooting Range Closures:

The Canton and Lexington WMA shooting ranges are temporarily closed for major improvements and expansion. Projects at both locations include upgrades to rifle ranges, new or improved archery and shotgun ranges, and enhanced facilities such as ADA access, parking, sidewalks, target frames, and covered shooting areas. Work at each range is expected to take about six months, with a targeted reopening in Spring 2026. We understand that closing shooting ranges during hunting seasons isn’t ideal and appreciate your patience.

See Shooting Ranges

Outdoor Journal

Apprentice Designation: A Learner's Permit for Hunting

Hunter education has greatly reduced hunting accidents, but if you can’t complete a course right away, the apprentice designation allows you to hunt under supervision. It works like a learner’s permit, giving you the chance to gain real experience safely until you finish hunter education.

Dec 4, 2025

Tufted titmouse, photo by Jeremiah Zurenda

Get the Most Out of Your Bird Feeder

We share four tips for getting the most out of your feeder.

Nov 20, 2025

Three Steps to Deer Tallow that You Can Make at Home

Don’t toss that deer fat—turn it into useful tallow for cooking, skincare, candles, and more. With a little time and care, you can honor your harvest and reduce waste.

Nov 18, 2025