Controlled Hunt Deer Lottery
Regionally and throughout the state of Ohio, changes in habitat and the elimination of natural predators have allowed deer herds to grow to unnatural densities. White-tailed deer are one of the most common wildlife species in the eastern United States. Although enjoyed by many, high deer populations can negatively impact crops and native vegetation as the increasing numbers of deer seek out more food sources. The high numbers of deer also lead to an increase in motor vehicle collisions. These impacts are often most notable in areas where hunting is not permitted, such as in state and local parks.
A 2021 study of the White-tailed deer population was conducted by a group from Malone University. Their deer density estimate at Quail Hollow Park ranged from 212 to 360 deer per square mile.
Biologists suggest that the optimal deer count in healthy forests is 15 to 28 deer per square mile. It is likely that the overabundance of deer at Quail Hollow Park is negatively affecting ecosystem function by spreading disease among the herds, damaging crops in the park’s surrounding areas, and stripping the forest floor of native plants.
Virtual Lottery
There will be two hunting locations that are part of the lottery selection. Lottery selection took place in August. 2025 and is now closed.
1. Quail Hollow Park
Trails will remain open during the fall and winter hunting season. Park users are encouraged to wear bright colors and stay on designated trails.
2. Nimisila Preserve (Youth Only)
Located near Canal Fulton, this park property is not open to public visitation at this time. This controlled hunting location will only be open to Youth hunters under the age of 18. A youth that wins the lottery will designate an adult companion that will also be issued a permit to hunt.
There is no entry fee to enter the lottery. Lottery participants must be a Stark County resident. Bow Hunters chosen will be eligible for a two-week session during Ohio Deer Archery season and assigned a zone in the order they are selected in the lottery. Those selected will be permitted to bring one hunting companion with them.
Both the hunter and companion must attend a qualification session. (Companion does not need to be a Stark County resident)
Upon successful completion and passing the qualification, the hunter will pay a $75 fee to reserve a site for a two week period.
2025 Site Session Dates
Quail Hollow Park Session Dates:
September 27 - October 10
October 11 - October 24
October 25 - November 7
November 8 - November 21
November 22 - December 5
December 6 - December 19
December 20 - January 2, 2026
January 3 - January 16, 2026
January 17 - January 30, 2026
Nimisila Preserve Session Dates:
September 27 – October 17
October 18 – November 7
November 8 - November 28
November 29 – December 19
December 20 – January 9, 2026
January 10 – January 30, 2026
Qualification Process
Attending a qualification session is required. A successful applicant and their designated companion will need to attend one of the offered sessions. To qualify, each applicant must be able to place at least four out of five arrows in a 10" diameter target from a position at 20 yards.
To encourage harvesting antlerless deer, successful applicants and their designated partners will be required to show a valid deer management permit at qualification along with a valid hunting license. Payment will be due after a successful qualification session.