Green Mountain/Tahuya St Forests

theholbert · May 24, 2015

Hello all and happy Memorial Day. Im new to the forum so forgive me if this is a question already answered. I'm relatively new to the Kitsap Peninsula and am looking for spots within Green Mountain or Tahuya State Forests to target shoot. I know both of those places are used a lot by hikers/mt. bikers and off roaders respectively and would like a place clear of any foot, bike or vehicle traffic downrange. I know there are a lot of gated roads in each forest and am not averse to hiking a few miles into a safe, secure and relatively secluded spot. I understand if people don't want to share their perfect spot to some stranger on line (although I'll take tips by DM if you're so inclined) and am more looking for any info specifically regarding spots to avoid. Being from Wyoming I'm used to plenty of wide open spaces and gun friendly people in the hills and am finding that both are relatively rare in Western WA. I'm really just looking for 25-75 yards of clear cut where I won't be hassled by the REI crowd and where just downrange and over the next hill there's not a bunch of people muddin quads. I'm trying to be as safe, legal and respectful as I can be and not have to drive all the way to the Oly Natl. Forest to do it. Thanks for any advice.

Cogs · May 24, 2015

Welcome to the site! Hope you have a good experience with this fine organization of 2 A Representatives! I don't know the areas you asked about above, however, I know a little about State DNR managed land and would like to direct you to check with them.

I think your most reliable information is going to be from WA State Dept of Nat Resources. They manage that area and know where the shooting areas are and where the trail systems are. There are also timber sales logging in state forests that may effect access to shooting places.

The web site link below has a map of the trail system (could be an old map and Jesse may hook you up with a newer revised version).

If you search enough, you will also find the DNR rules for Recreational Target Shooting. Should look that over so you don't end up with a fine! They do have their own Law Enforcement. (Don't forget the Discover Pass parking permit!)

Contact:
Jesse Sims
WA DNR Natural Resource Specialist
360-801-5097
[email protected]

Link to DNR web page about; <broken link removed>

Another good way to find a spot would be Google Earth. Follow forest roads until you see gravel pits. Zoom in on those, even street level view, and you may be able to find something that looks good enough to go explore. Then check the trails map and see if there are any nearby trails.

Sometimes I like a little adventure and just head out, look and talk with other shooters in the woods. Sooner or later you find a couple places you like.

Hopefully, someone who knows the area will respond with a more specific location. Until then, I hope this gives you a little something to get you closer to what you're looking for.

And a good Memorial Day to you as well!

Cogs

theholbert · May 25, 2015

Good info there Cogs. Appreciate the welcome and friendly reply.

Chief Chris · May 29, 2015

I'm in the same boat. I'm somewhat new to the area and am having the hardest time finding a spot. Have been exploring Kitsap, Jefferson and Mason counties with no luck.

Someone please throw us a bone.

theholbert · May 29, 2015

If you're willing to drive a bit I know there's a bunch of clearcuts and overgrown logging roads up above Quilcene that show promise if you've got the means to get back in there, either by 4x4 or heel toe express. This side of hood canal is slim pickens though.

Chief Chris · May 29, 2015

Thanks.

I was just out there this afternoon driving around for hours looking for a spot. I drove down every gravel road I came across (that wasn't gated or posted) and came up empty. Found one spot with a small berm and a bunch of shotgun shells on the ground but there was a "no shooting" sign so I drove on.

This is so frustrating.