The Southern Agenda

Shoot and Stay in Style

Flush quail at any or all of these five destinations, where the luxurious lodging is almost as memorable as the hunt

Illustration: Illustrations by Tim Bower


  • Cabin Bluff

    Woodbine, Georgia

    Though not officially established until 1928, Cabin Bluff was first built in 1827 and is often credited as the country’s first members-only sporting club. Today, the 24,000-acre tract along the Intracoastal Waterway has 1,800 acres specifically cultivated for quail hunting. The historic property is open to all hunters, and hosts small groups in its rustically elegant cabins—expect fewer than forty people on the grounds at any given time.—cabinbluff.com

  • Deer Creek Lodge

    Sebree, Kentucky

    You may not want to leave the confines of Kentucky’s first Orvis-endorsed wing-shooting lodge, with its open bar, huge stone fireplace, and lake views. But the promise of the hunt will no doubt pull you outdoors. Expect at least twenty coveys during a full day’s shoot. Or spring for the one-fee, no-limit hunt complete with guide and a good dog.—deercreeklodge.net

  • The Fork Farm & Stables

    Norwood, North Carolina

    Open the door to the newly renovated Carriage House and walk back to the deck overlooking bucolic horse pastures. Scope out the land beyond, with its stately pines towering above Alamo switchgrass and sorghum. An early release program means nine hundred quail are introduced every five weeks, so you and a trusty Boykin spaniel can flush birds all morning.—forkstables.com

  • Primland

    Meadows of Dan, Virginia

    This Blue Ridge getaway recently added four luxury cottages named after birds: Hummingbird, Robin, Oriole, and Bluebird. They’re not the only winged creatures that call this stunning landscape home. Primland manages a habitat of small grains and warm-season grasses for pheasant, chukars, and of course quail. Guided upland hunts take place every day in season.—primland.com

  • Springbank Plantation at Barnsley Resort

    Adairsville, Georgia

    Take a refresher course at the Caesar Guerini Wings & Clays School, then book an evening quail hunt among 1,800 acres of rolling hills dotted with pearl top millet, corn, and sunflowers. End the day with a bourbon in the new clubhouse at SpringBank. Then tuck into bed in a nineteenth-century log cabin or a cottage outfitted with two claw-foot soaking tubs, a wide front porch, and a private garden.—barnsleyresort.com

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