When it comes to turkey hunting, not all states are created equal. From sprawling hardwood forests to rolling hills and open plains, the U.S. offers a diverse landscape and rich populations of wild turkey subspecies - Eastern, Osceola, Merriam’s, Rio Grande, and Gould’s. Whether you’re chasing a Grand Slam or planning your first spring gobbler trip, knowing where to go makes all the difference. Here are the top turkey hunting destinations in the U.S. every hunter should have on their radar.

Missouri – A Mecca for Eastern Turkeys

If you're looking for a classic spring hunt, Missouri delivers. Known for its dense hardwoods, rolling terrain, and abundant turkey population, the state consistently ranks as one of the best turkey hunting destinations in the U.S. The Missouri Department of Conservation manages over a million acres of public land, and private land leases are plentiful.

Why it’s great:

• High harvest success rates
• Large population of Eastern wild turkeys
• Generous public hunting access

Best time to hunt: Mid-April through early May

Florida – Home of the Osceola Turkey

To complete a turkey hunting Grand Slam, you'll need to bag an Osceola, and Florida is the only place to find them. Central and South Florida are prime territory, offering swampy, palmetto-filled landscapes that make for a thrilling challenge.

Why it’s great:

• Exclusive range of the Osceola subspecies
• Long season (early March to late April)
• Guided hunts are widely available

Hotspots: Green Swamp WMA, Ocala National Forest

Texas – Big Land, Big Birds

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes turkey populations. Texas is particularly famous for its Rio Grande turkeys, which roam across the state’s vast ranchlands. While public access is more limited, the sheer number of outfitters and private ranches makes Texas a top-tier destination.

Why it’s great:

• Huge numbers of Rio Grande turkeys
• Extended season and liberal bag limits
• Excellent youth hunting opportunities

Top regions: Hill Country, South Texas brush country

South Dakota – Merriam’s Country

Looking for scenic hunts and vocal gobblers? Head to South Dakota, where Merriam’s turkeys thrive in the Black Hills. Known for their snow-white tipped tail feathers and striking landscapes, Merriam’s are a must-hunt for turkey enthusiasts.

Why it’s great:

• Rugged and beautiful terrain
• Classic Merriam’s gobbling action
• Ample public access in the Black Hills National Forest

Tip: Apply early - non-resident tags are limited.

Tennessee – Underrated and Full of Opportunity

Tennessee might not always make the top five on other lists, but seasoned turkey hunters know it’s a hidden gem. The Eastern turkey population is strong, and the state has done an exceptional job with conservation and habitat management.

Why it’s great:

• Excellent Eastern turkey population
• Mix of public and private land options
• Long season and flexible dates

Don’t miss: Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Kansas – Open Spaces and Rio Grandes

For a unique twist on turkey hunting, the open prairies and creek bottoms of Kansas provide a perfect setting. You’ll mostly encounter Rio Grandes, but hybrids are common too. Kansas is especially appealing to archery hunters due to its open landscapes and longer visibility.

Why it’s great:

• Ample access through the Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) program
• Plenty of birds and less pressure
• Multiple subspecies in some zones

Peak season: Mid-April to early May

Nebraska – Slam Central

Nebraska is one of the few states where you can potentially encounter Eastern, Rio Grande, and Merriam’s turkeys - making it a strategic destination for hunters chasing a slam. With easy-to-obtain permits and generous bag limits, it’s become a popular pick.

Why it’s great:

• Multiple subspecies available
• Over-the-counter permits
• Great mix of public and private lands

Pro tip: Western Nebraska is best for Merriam’s, while central regions lean toward hybrids.

Whether you're chasing a single bird or aiming to complete your Turkey Grand Slam, the U.S. offers a rich variety of destinations that cater to every type of hunter. From the swamps of Florida to the prairies of Kansas and the rugged Black Hills of South Dakota, these top turkey hunting destinations in the U.S. deliver both challenge and reward. Just remember to check state regulations, secure your licenses early, and practice ethical hunting at all times.