Opening Weekend 2026: A Deer Hunter's Guide to Dallas County

Posted November 2026

Missouri's November firearms deer season opens Saturday, November 14, 2026, and runs through November 24. Dallas County is one of the best places in southwest Missouri to spend it: rolling Ozark timber, river bottoms along the Niangua, and seven public conservation areas within a short drive of Buffalo. Here's what to know before you head out.

Key Dates for the 2026–27 Season

• Firearms, November portion: Nov. 14 – 24, 2026
• Archery: closes Nov. 13 and reopens Nov. 25, 2026 – Jan. 15, 2027
• Late youth portion: Nov. 27 – 29, 2026
• Late antlerless portion: Dec. 5 – 13, 2026 (open counties only)
• Alternative methods: Dec. 26, 2026 – Jan. 5, 2027

Always confirm dates, permits, and county rules with the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Public Land Near Buffalo

If you don't have private land to hunt, Dallas County has seven MDC areas open to deer hunting. Barclay Conservation Area, about 21 miles northeast of Buffalo, and Lead Mine Conservation Area are two of the largest. A few areas, like Bennett Spring Access and Charity Access, have archery-only rules for some species, so read each area's page before you go. We keep the full list with links on our Hunting page.

Opening Weekend Checklist

• Buy your permits ahead of time on the MO Hunting app or at mdc.mo.gov.
• Scout public land before Saturday so you're not finding your spot in the dark.
• Pack blaze orange: Missouri requires a hat and an outer garment during firearms portions.
• Know how you'll Telecheck your deer after harvest.
• Line up a deer processor before the opener. They get busy fast.
• Book your room early. Hotels near good hunting fill up for opening weekend.

Where to Stay

The Buffalo Lodge sits just off US-65 in Buffalo with free parking for trucks and trailers, two-Queen rooms for hunting partners, a fridge and microwave in every room, and free breakfast from 7 to 10 am for when you come in from the morning sit. Small dogs (25 lbs and under) are welcome for $25 per pet per night. Please note that we don't allow cleaning or processing game on the property.

Book Your Stay

Check availability online or call us at (417) 383-5050. Buffalo Lodge, 1400 W Dallas St, Buffalo, MO 65622.