Homestead WMA: Public Land Hunting Close to Lincoln

Homestead WMA in Gage County sits near Beatrice, making it one of the closest quality public hunting areas to Lincoln. For the thousands of hunters in the Lincoln metro area who want to hunt public land without driving three hours west, Homestead is a practical option that produces whitetail, turkey, pheasant, and quail on a consistent basis.

Location and Accessibility

Homestead WMA is located in Gage County, approximately 10 miles from Beatrice and about an hour south of Lincoln on Highway 77. That proximity to Nebraska's second-largest city is both a blessing and a challenge — it is easy to get to, but it also means more hunters know about it than some of the remote WMAs in western Nebraska.

The WMA includes a mix of native prairie, restored grassland, and timber edges along drainages. The terrain is gently rolling, typical of southeast Nebraska's agricultural landscape.

Whitetail Deer at Homestead

Whitetail deer are the primary big-game draw at Homestead WMA. The timber edges along the drainage ditches and draws provide bedding cover, while the surrounding agricultural fields offer corn, soybeans, and other food sources.

Archery hunters have the best opportunity here, especially during the early season before firearms pressure moves deer around. The timber draws are narrow enough that a well-placed portable stand can cover the primary travel routes.

During the November firearms season, expect some company. Hunt the midweek days if your schedule allows — the weekend warrior pressure drops significantly on Tuesday through Thursday.

Turkey, Pheasant, and Quail

Wild turkeys use the timbered draws for roosting and the open grasslands for strutting and feeding. Spring turkey hunting at Homestead can be very productive.

The grassland and prairie portions hold pheasants and bobwhite quail. Southeast Nebraska has seen improved quail numbers in recent years, and Gage County is one of the better counties for finding coveys on public land.

Hunting Tips for Pressured Public Land

Because Homestead sees more hunter traffic than remote WMAs, a few adjustments help. Hunt the edges of the property where fewer hunters walk. Hunt midweek whenever possible. Get there before first light to establish position before other hunters arrive.

Nearby Towns

Beatrice is the nearest town with full services — gas, motels, restaurants, and sporting goods. Lincoln is about an hour north on Highway 77. The WMA has designated parking and walk-in access.

When to Hunt

Archery deer: September through November, with October and November being the best months. Firearms deer: November. Turkey: late April through May. Upland birds: late October through November. Homestead WMA is not a wilderness experience, but it is a solid, productive public land option within easy reach of Lincoln and the southeast Nebraska population centers.