Limited access to Jay Cooke State Park for Special Deer Hunt

Jay Cooke State Park will partially close from Saturday, December 7, to Wednesday, December 11, for a muzzleloader hunt. The Minnesota DNR says it is to prevent the overpopulation of deer and protect park resources.

Visitors will not be able to access areas south of the Swinging Bridge. Hiking trails will be closed.

The swinging bridge, campground, office area, River Inn area, and the Munger Trail will stay open.

It’s recommended that visitors wear blaze orange if they’re in the area during the hunt, and follow the direction of any signage.

Special hunts will take place at several Minnesota State Parks and Recreation Areas this fall, and access to the parks will vary. Park visitors are advised to check the alerts and notices on park websites to find details about any upcoming special hunts at the park they plan to visit.

Muzzleloader deer hunts in Jay Cooke State Park started in 1997. The number of permitted hunters and bag limits change in response to deer population in the area, as well as impacts within the park. Approximately 80 hunters will participate in this year’s hunt. Since 2013, an average of 20 deer have been harvested annually.