Most of the time, it’s the big predators that get all the attention—but it’s the smaller, venomous ones that’ll ruin a trip real quick. Some of these creatures are nearly invisible until it’s too late, hiding under rocks, leaves, or right in your sleeping bag.
You don’t have to be deep in the jungle to run into them either. From deserts to woodlands, venomous wildlife is more common than folks realize. Here’s what might be crawling, slithering, or hiding nearby the next time you’re out hunting or camping.
Rattlesnake
Rattlesnakes don’t want trouble, but if you get too close, they’ll stand their ground. Most bites happen when someone steps too close without seeing them or reaches into brush or rocks without looking first. Their venom can cause serious damage fast.
They blend in with dry leaves and rocky terrain, so your best defense is keeping your eyes on the ground. If you hear that rattle, back off slowly. Don’t try to poke it or move it—just give it space. They’re common across the Southwest, but they’re found in plenty of other states, too.
Brown Recluse Spider
You probably won’t even feel the bite. That’s what makes brown recluses such a problem. Their venom can cause tissue to rot away if untreated. They like quiet, undisturbed places—like the inside of boots, gloves, or sleeping bags.
These spiders aren’t aggressive, but if you accidentally trap one against your skin, it’ll bite. Shake out your gear every morning and don’t leave stuff lying around. They’re mostly found in the Midwest and South, but they’ve spread far beyond that now.
Black Widow Spider
You’ll know it by the red hourglass on its belly, if you get close enough to see it. A black widow bite is painful and packs a nasty neurotoxin. You’ll feel muscle cramps, nausea, and more if you get nailed by one.
They like hiding under logs, rocks, and sometimes camp gear left alone for a while. Bites aren’t often fatal, but they’ll definitely wreck your day. Check under benches, rocks, and around woodpiles before sitting or reaching blindly.
Copperhead
Copperheads are responsible for a lot of snake bites in the U.S. because they don’t give much warning. They’re incredibly well-camouflaged and usually won’t move when people approach, which makes stepping on one more likely.
Their venom isn’t usually deadly, but it causes pain, swelling, and tissue damage. They’re especially common in the eastern and southern U.S., and they love leaf litter, old logs, and tall grass. Wear boots and don’t walk around camp barefoot.
Scorpion
Scorpions are built to survive in the harshest places—and that includes desert campsites. Most stings feel like a bee sting, but some species (like the Arizona bark scorpion) can cause serious symptoms like muscle twitching and breathing trouble.
They hide under rocks, logs, and in shoes or bedding. Shake everything out before putting it on or crawling in for the night. If you’re in the Southwest, these little guys are part of the deal.
Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
Found near swamps, rivers, and ponds in the Southeast, cottonmouths are aggressive when cornered. They’ll stand their ground with their mouth wide open, showing off that white interior as a warning.
Their venom is powerful and can lead to tissue damage if not treated. If you’re fishing, hunting near water, or even setting up camp by a creek, keep your eyes open and don’t assume every snake is harmless. Step carefully around water.
Tick (Carrying Venom and Disease)
Ticks aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when people think “venom,” but they inject compounds to numb your skin while they feed. That alone is bad enough, but the real concern is Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other illnesses.
They’re found across nearly every state, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Check your body daily, especially behind knees, underarms, and around your waist. A single tick bite can mess you up for months if you’re not careful.
Eastern Coral Snake
“Red touch yellow, kill a fellow.” That old rhyme still holds true. Coral snakes are shy, but their venom is neurotoxic and deadly. They’re rarely seen, but when they bite, the effects can creep up on you—paralysis and trouble breathing being the big ones.
They live in the Southeast and like wooded, sandy areas. They’re often confused with non-venomous kingsnakes, so be extra cautious. If you see one, don’t mess with it. Step away and give it space.
Cone Snail
If you’re ever hunting or fishing near the ocean, don’t assume every pretty shell is safe. Cone snails live in shallow saltwater and can deliver a sting that feels like a bee—but can shut down your muscles if the dose is high enough.
They’re slow, but their venom acts fast. Some species are deadly. If you’re wading or beachcombing in tropical areas, be cautious about picking up shells, especially those that look like they still have something alive inside.
Fire Ant
They’re tiny, but they don’t act like it. Fire ants swarm when their nest is disturbed, and they bite and sting at the same time. The venom causes burning pain, itching, and can lead to allergic reactions in some people.
These ants are aggressive and quick to respond. If you’re camping in the South or anywhere they’ve spread, check your site before setting up. Avoid walking barefoot or sitting on bare ground unless you’re sure it’s clear.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
