Quick Tips
- Typical climate is hot
- A four-wheel-drive vehicle with high clearance is helpful on rough roads
- Carry plenty of water
- Dress in layers as temperatures fluctuate greatly
- Bring a shotgun for quail and dove hunting
- Javelina are found across the unit
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 150"-170" | 170"+ |
On The Ground
Just south of Gila Bend, this unit is almost entirely composed of Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range, Sonoran Desert National Monument and Tape Top Wilderness. Desert bighorn sheep herds have crashed and now tags are extremely limited, though historically this unit has produced some very large rams. Desert mule deer are scarce.
Once populated by healthy herds of desert bighorn sheep, this unit suffered severe die-offs over the past 10 years, leaving a remnant of the original herd. Mule deer are also low in number. This unit experiences high levels of activity associated with the Mexican border, which is a potential safety and property loss concern. Hunters should be aware of the added challenge this poses, and be prepared to make informed decisions on camping areas and safety in the field. Prior ordination with appropriate land management and enforcement agencies is recommended.
Terrain
Rocky desert terrain with some rocky canyons found across the unit. Terrain is steep in some areas.
Roughly 1,083 square miles
97.4% public land
Elevations from 700-4,373 feet
Low desert mountains and drainages
Wilderness area provides a backcountry backpack experience
Vegetation
Cactus and desert scrub cover much of the land, which is desolate and barren in places. Cholla cactus grows in places across the unit. Creosote, paloverde and saguaro cactus grow along major drainages and low mountains.
Access
Most of the unit is open to public hunting and is managed by the BLM. The state owns only about 10 square miles of trust land, mostly in scattered sections. The Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range comprises a large part of the unit.
The Goldwater Range is open to hunting by those who apply for access permits
Tabletop BLM Wilderness area is closed to all vehicles
The BLM manages the Sonoran Desert National Monument
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp along dirt roads on BLM and state property. Overnight camping is also allowed on the Goldwater Range to hunters with access permits. Lodging and other services are in Gila Bend, Ajo, Stanfield and Why.
Coyote Howl RV Park in Why along Highway 86
Saguaro RV Park in Stanfield on Interstate 8 at Mile Marker 151
Historical Temperatures
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April 2025
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