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Mama bear understands how challenging it can be to get the whole family packed up and ready for a road trip.

Hitting the road this holiday weekend? Be sure to have a bear-safe vacation!

· Observe bears from a safe distance.
· Never feed bears — intentionally or unintentionally. Food teaches bears to approach vacation homes, campsites, campers, and people.
· Secure food, garbage, recyclables, and coolers.
· Clean your BBQ grill after each use.
· Keep doors and windows closed.
· Keep dogs and pets on a leash.

Hosting guests in PA bear country?

Be a @bebearwise host by helping educate your guests and following BearWise practices to keep people safe and bears wild.

We know you “can’t wait to get on the road again,” but taking a little extra time to plan and prepare before loading up the kids can help ensure a safe and enjoyable family getaway.

Pictured is one for the photo album — a collared mother black bear with her cub investigating a Game Commission Jeep in the 90s.

Fun fact: Did you know the original Jeep originated in Butler, PA?

Enjoy your weekend!

Spring gobbler is winding down, which means archery season is basically here, right?

It’s never too early to pick up your bow, and next weekend, you should join us on the mountain!

We’re heading to Seven Springs Mountain Resort for the Total Archery Challenge, and we hope to see you there.

From Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31, archers will take on the slopes and test their skills at one of the biggest outdoor 3D archery events in the nation!

With more than 100 3D targets across nine courses of varying difficulty, this family-friendly event promises weekend-long fun. Be sure to visit the vendor row and stop by the Pennsylvania Game Commission booth for a chat and some swag.

Think you’re a good shot? Test your aim with our National Archery in the Schools Program Genesis bows at the novelty shoot. All proceeds benefit the NASP scholarship fund. And if you’re on the course on Saturday morning, be sure to watch for our staff for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Whether you join us at Seven Springs next week or you're in your backyard taking aim, remember you’re STILL supporting wildlife conservation and hunting heritage in Pennsylvania! Every purchase of archery equipment helps support these efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act that provides funds for state wildlife agencies.

We hope to see you at Seven Springs next weekend, and remember, “Life… it’s better with a bow.”


@7SpringsPA @RMEF_official @totalarcherychallenge #totalarcherychallenge

Spring gobbler is winding down, which means archery season is basically here, right?

It’s never too early to pick up your bow, and next weekend, you should join us on the mountain!

We’re heading to Seven Springs Mountain Resort for the Total Archery Challenge, and we hope to see you there.

From Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31, archers will take on the slopes and test their skills at one of the biggest outdoor 3D archery events in the nation!

With more than 100 3D targets across nine courses of varying difficulty, this family-friendly event promises weekend-long fun. Be sure to visit the vendor row and stop by the Pennsylvania Game Commission booth for a chat and some swag.

Think you’re a good shot? Test your aim with our National Archery in the Schools Program Genesis bows at the novelty shoot. All proceeds benefit the NASP scholarship fund. And if you’re on the course on Saturday morning, be sure to watch for our staff for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Whether you join us at Seven Springs next week or you're in your backyard taking aim, remember you’re STILL supporting wildlife conservation and hunting heritage in Pennsylvania! Every purchase of archery equipment helps support these efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act that provides funds for state wildlife agencies.

We hope to see you at Seven Springs next weekend, and remember, “Life… it’s better with a bow.”


@7SpringsPA @RMEF_official @totalarcherychallenge #totalarcherychallenge

Spring gobbler is winding down, which means archery season is basically here, right?

It’s never too early to pick up your bow, and next weekend, you should join us on the mountain!

We’re heading to Seven Springs Mountain Resort for the Total Archery Challenge, and we hope to see you there.

From Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31, archers will take on the slopes and test their skills at one of the biggest outdoor 3D archery events in the nation!

With more than 100 3D targets across nine courses of varying difficulty, this family-friendly event promises weekend-long fun. Be sure to visit the vendor row and stop by the Pennsylvania Game Commission booth for a chat and some swag.

Think you’re a good shot? Test your aim with our National Archery in the Schools Program Genesis bows at the novelty shoot. All proceeds benefit the NASP scholarship fund. And if you’re on the course on Saturday morning, be sure to watch for our staff for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Whether you join us at Seven Springs next week or you're in your backyard taking aim, remember you’re STILL supporting wildlife conservation and hunting heritage in Pennsylvania! Every purchase of archery equipment helps support these efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act that provides funds for state wildlife agencies.

We hope to see you at Seven Springs next weekend, and remember, “Life… it’s better with a bow.”


@7SpringsPA @RMEF_official @totalarcherychallenge #totalarcherychallenge

Spring gobbler is winding down, which means archery season is basically here, right?

It’s never too early to pick up your bow, and next weekend, you should join us on the mountain!

We’re heading to Seven Springs Mountain Resort for the Total Archery Challenge, and we hope to see you there.

From Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31, archers will take on the slopes and test their skills at one of the biggest outdoor 3D archery events in the nation!

With more than 100 3D targets across nine courses of varying difficulty, this family-friendly event promises weekend-long fun. Be sure to visit the vendor row and stop by the Pennsylvania Game Commission booth for a chat and some swag.

Think you’re a good shot? Test your aim with our National Archery in the Schools Program Genesis bows at the novelty shoot. All proceeds benefit the NASP scholarship fund. And if you’re on the course on Saturday morning, be sure to watch for our staff for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Whether you join us at Seven Springs next week or you're in your backyard taking aim, remember you’re STILL supporting wildlife conservation and hunting heritage in Pennsylvania! Every purchase of archery equipment helps support these efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act that provides funds for state wildlife agencies.

We hope to see you at Seven Springs next weekend, and remember, “Life… it’s better with a bow.”


@7SpringsPA @RMEF_official @totalarcherychallenge #totalarcherychallenge

Spring gobbler is winding down, which means archery season is basically here, right?

It’s never too early to pick up your bow, and next weekend, you should join us on the mountain!

We’re heading to Seven Springs Mountain Resort for the Total Archery Challenge, and we hope to see you there.

From Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31, archers will take on the slopes and test their skills at one of the biggest outdoor 3D archery events in the nation!

With more than 100 3D targets across nine courses of varying difficulty, this family-friendly event promises weekend-long fun. Be sure to visit the vendor row and stop by the Pennsylvania Game Commission booth for a chat and some swag.

Think you’re a good shot? Test your aim with our National Archery in the Schools Program Genesis bows at the novelty shoot. All proceeds benefit the NASP scholarship fund. And if you’re on the course on Saturday morning, be sure to watch for our staff for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Whether you join us at Seven Springs next week or you're in your backyard taking aim, remember you’re STILL supporting wildlife conservation and hunting heritage in Pennsylvania! Every purchase of archery equipment helps support these efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act that provides funds for state wildlife agencies.

We hope to see you at Seven Springs next weekend, and remember, “Life… it’s better with a bow.”


@7SpringsPA @RMEF_official @totalarcherychallenge #totalarcherychallenge

Today is Pennsylvania’s Native Species Day, and we’re celebrating the incredible diversity of native plants and wildlife that call the Commonwealth home — and the ongoing work to protect them.

Did you know… Pennsylvania’s state game lands system includes nearly 100,000 acres of open habitat. From wetlands and shrublands to native grasslands and reverting fields, they each provide critical food and shelter for wildlife species of greatest conservation need.

These habitats don’t thrive on their own — they require active management and restoration to stay healthy and resilient against the growing threat of invasive species.

Over the past year, habitat crews across the Commonwealth planted 125 additional acres of native wildflower pollinator mixes and improved approximately 2,700 acres of old field habitat through mowing, prescribed fire, discing, and invasive species control.

These efforts help restore native ecosystems, strengthen biodiversity, and create more quality landscapes for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

Protecting native species starts with protecting native habitats, and every restored acre helps ensure Pennsylvania’s wild places continue to thrive for generations to come.

Native | Wildlife | Conservation | Habitat | Pennsylvania

Picture it: McKean County, 1953.

During the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s “Show-me Tour,” sportsmen, legislators, and community members witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of an overabundant deer herd on the state’s big woods.

Outside a fenced one-acre plot, the forest floor was stripped bare. Every leaf and small browse within a deer’s reach was gone.

But inside the fence, native wildflowers and young trees thrived with a forest floor so thick with new growth, you could barely walk through it.

More than 70 years later, that exclosure — known as Latham’s Acre — still stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of balanced deer management and healthy forest regeneration for future generations.



Pictured: red trillium, wood fern fiddleheads, spring beauty, and trout lily.

Picture it: McKean County, 1953.

During the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s “Show-me Tour,” sportsmen, legislators, and community members witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of an overabundant deer herd on the state’s big woods.

Outside a fenced one-acre plot, the forest floor was stripped bare. Every leaf and small browse within a deer’s reach was gone.

But inside the fence, native wildflowers and young trees thrived with a forest floor so thick with new growth, you could barely walk through it.

More than 70 years later, that exclosure — known as Latham’s Acre — still stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of balanced deer management and healthy forest regeneration for future generations.



Pictured: red trillium, wood fern fiddleheads, spring beauty, and trout lily.

Picture it: McKean County, 1953.

During the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s “Show-me Tour,” sportsmen, legislators, and community members witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of an overabundant deer herd on the state’s big woods.

Outside a fenced one-acre plot, the forest floor was stripped bare. Every leaf and small browse within a deer’s reach was gone.

But inside the fence, native wildflowers and young trees thrived with a forest floor so thick with new growth, you could barely walk through it.

More than 70 years later, that exclosure — known as Latham’s Acre — still stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of balanced deer management and healthy forest regeneration for future generations.



Pictured: red trillium, wood fern fiddleheads, spring beauty, and trout lily.

Picture it: McKean County, 1953.

During the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s “Show-me Tour,” sportsmen, legislators, and community members witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of an overabundant deer herd on the state’s big woods.

Outside a fenced one-acre plot, the forest floor was stripped bare. Every leaf and small browse within a deer’s reach was gone.

But inside the fence, native wildflowers and young trees thrived with a forest floor so thick with new growth, you could barely walk through it.

More than 70 years later, that exclosure — known as Latham’s Acre — still stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of balanced deer management and healthy forest regeneration for future generations.



Pictured: red trillium, wood fern fiddleheads, spring beauty, and trout lily.

The weather is breaking and summer is right around the corner, so why not fire up the grill and celebrate National BBQ Day the RIGHT way!

We’ve got a simple but delicious venison recipe sure to please everyone and definitely get you in the right mindset for those summer vibes.

You can find this recipe and more in our Pennsylvania Game Commission Wild Game Cookbook, but if you’re itching to give it a try, keep swiping!

If you grill some up, let us know! Tag @pagamecomm in your picture and let us know how it was.

The weather is breaking and summer is right around the corner, so why not fire up the grill and celebrate National BBQ Day the RIGHT way!

We’ve got a simple but delicious venison recipe sure to please everyone and definitely get you in the right mindset for those summer vibes.

You can find this recipe and more in our Pennsylvania Game Commission Wild Game Cookbook, but if you’re itching to give it a try, keep swiping!

If you grill some up, let us know! Tag @pagamecomm in your picture and let us know how it was.

The weather is breaking and summer is right around the corner, so why not fire up the grill and celebrate National BBQ Day the RIGHT way!

We’ve got a simple but delicious venison recipe sure to please everyone and definitely get you in the right mindset for those summer vibes.

You can find this recipe and more in our Pennsylvania Game Commission Wild Game Cookbook, but if you’re itching to give it a try, keep swiping!

If you grill some up, let us know! Tag @pagamecomm in your picture and let us know how it was.

We’re RUNNING to the beaches of Lake Erie. Why?

The piping plovers are BACK!

This rare, endangered North American shorebird has returned for its tenth breeding season, so we are celebrating!

The Pennsylvania Piping Plover and Common Tern Partnership invite you to join us as we celebrate how small, continued actions turned into one BIG success with the Pennsylvania Piping Plover Fest this summer.

This unique event is being held on July 18 and 19, 2026, at Presque Isle State Park in Erie.

Visitors can expect field trips, special exhibits, special ticketed reception, and the debut of the Game Commission’s newest wildlife film, “Our Threatened and Endangered Species: Piping Plovers.”

We invite you to learn more about one of Pennsylvania’s most critically important birds and what YOU can do to help endangered and threatened species across our beautiful state!

Check out the link in our bio for more Pennsylvania Piping Plover Fest details!



@USFWS | @padcnr | @bird_erie | @trec.foundation

We’d all much rather be in the woods chasing strutters than stuck in the office, but turkey hunters will soon have more time in the day to fill their tags!

Beginning Monday, May 18, hunting hours extend to one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset through the end of the season, Saturday, May 30.

There are NO Sunday hunting dates during this current spring gobbler season.

The daily limit is one bird. The season limit is two birds ONLY for individuals who possess a valid special turkey license. Remember to tag and report your successful harvests online, by phone, or by mail.

Hunters who purchased a second spring gobbler license have a mandatory reporting requirement regardless of whether they harvest a bird with the second license.

Thank you for being a Pennsylvania turkey hunter.

Good luck. Have fun. Hunt SAFELY.

BONUS points and BONUS episode 🎙️

Applying for the hunt of a lifetime just got easier, and we’ve got the expert to break it down for you.

On this special episode, Elk Biologist Jeremy Banfield joins host Matt Morrett to break down the latest updates to Pennsylvania elk hunting for the upcoming seasons, including changes to the application process, bonus points structure, hunt zones, and more.

Plus, hear expert tips for safely viewing bugling bulls this fall. Because who DOESN’T love visiting elk country in the fall?

Tune into Episode 70- Luck of the Draw: Elk Application & Hunting Updates wherever you get your podcasts or the link in our bio.And be sure to watch for all-new episodes to drop the first Wednesday of every month.

Are you dreading the summer lull of, “I’m so bored” or potential bouncing off the walls with energy?

If you have a kid who loves the outdoors, Youth Field Days are a great way to turn that energy into something fun and maybe even a new lifelong interest.

These interactive events give kids the chance to try all kinds of outdoor activities — from trapping and clay shooting to kayaking, turkey hunting demos, basic first aid, and more.

They are hands-on, exciting, and a great way to spend a summer day outside!

Hosted by local sportsmen’s clubs across the state, these events are completely FREE to attend. But keep in mind, registration is often limited and spots fill up fast, so be sure to sign up soon!

Comment “Field Day” and we will send you a direct link for events across the state!

Are you dreading the summer lull of, “I’m so bored” or potential bouncing off the walls with energy?

If you have a kid who loves the outdoors, Youth Field Days are a great way to turn that energy into something fun and maybe even a new lifelong interest.

These interactive events give kids the chance to try all kinds of outdoor activities — from trapping and clay shooting to kayaking, turkey hunting demos, basic first aid, and more.

They are hands-on, exciting, and a great way to spend a summer day outside!

Hosted by local sportsmen’s clubs across the state, these events are completely FREE to attend. But keep in mind, registration is often limited and spots fill up fast, so be sure to sign up soon!

Comment “Field Day” and we will send you a direct link for events across the state!

Are you dreading the summer lull of, “I’m so bored” or potential bouncing off the walls with energy?

If you have a kid who loves the outdoors, Youth Field Days are a great way to turn that energy into something fun and maybe even a new lifelong interest.

These interactive events give kids the chance to try all kinds of outdoor activities — from trapping and clay shooting to kayaking, turkey hunting demos, basic first aid, and more.

They are hands-on, exciting, and a great way to spend a summer day outside!

Hosted by local sportsmen’s clubs across the state, these events are completely FREE to attend. But keep in mind, registration is often limited and spots fill up fast, so be sure to sign up soon!

Comment “Field Day” and we will send you a direct link for events across the state!

Are you dreading the summer lull of, “I’m so bored” or potential bouncing off the walls with energy?

If you have a kid who loves the outdoors, Youth Field Days are a great way to turn that energy into something fun and maybe even a new lifelong interest.

These interactive events give kids the chance to try all kinds of outdoor activities — from trapping and clay shooting to kayaking, turkey hunting demos, basic first aid, and more.

They are hands-on, exciting, and a great way to spend a summer day outside!

Hosted by local sportsmen’s clubs across the state, these events are completely FREE to attend. But keep in mind, registration is often limited and spots fill up fast, so be sure to sign up soon!

Comment “Field Day” and we will send you a direct link for events across the state!

What our mothers think we do in our wildlife conservation careers vs. what we actually do on the daily.

Sorry, Mom — we promise we’re doing our best to stay safe. And yes, we’ll call when we get there.

Happy Mother’s Day! 🌷

Tag it. Report it. Your harvest COUNTS!

With spring gobbler season underway, successful hunters are reminded to report their turkey harvest.

Hunters can report one of three ways:
💻 Online at huntfish.pa.gov
📱 Call 1-800-838-4431
📨 Mail a 2025-26 harvest report card to: 2001 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110-9851

By reporting big game harvests, you provide Game Commission biologists with information for future decision-making and tag allocations.

Thank you for being a Pennsylvania turkey hunter!

Good luck. Have fun. Hunt safely.

Can’t work a mouth call to save your life? That’s ok, Rob’s got a solution.

In this month’s episode of the Call of the Outdoors podcast, Pennsylvania native, former NWTF Ceo, and turkey hunting legend, Rob Keck takes us back to his early days of chasing longbeards and catches up with Matt as they share hunting stories and tips.

From the history of turkey calls to nationwide conservation wins, this episode is a tribute to the hunters and leaders who made it all possible.

Tune in and reconnect with the roots of spring gobbler season.

You can find this episode and more on our YouTube channel (link in our bio).