Quick Tips
- Don't apply for an elk tag if you want to see a lot of bulls
- Use an ATV to navigate rough and rocky roads
- Javelina are numerous
- Quail hunting in the fall and winter
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Coues Deer | 80"-100" | 100"+ |
| Elk | 300"-330" | 340"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
Stretching north of Cave Creek on the outskirts of Phoenix to Camp Verde, this unit is composed of low-elevation Sonoran desert and steep mountains with rough wilderness areas. Hunters here seek elk, mule deer, Coues deer and antelope.
Some superb Coues deer live in this unit along with a few mature bull elk, with average antelope and mule deer. Few hunters would enjoy hunting elk here because animals are scarce and the terrain is difficult to hunt. Mule deer numbers are down due to predation and drought. Antelope are found in northern half of unit.
Terrain
Few roads are in the rugged parts of this unit. Lowlands in the south are typical of Sonoran desert. Several low, rocky mountains rise above rugged breaks. Terrain that drains into the Verde River is rugged and tough to hike. Steep mountains and large mesas comprise most of the unit.
Roughly 1,095 square miles
93.3% public land
Elevations from 1,200 feet along the lower Verde River to 6,814 feet on Pine Mountain
Vegetation
Highlands are covered with pinyon/juniper woodlands and Gambel oak and some ponderosa pines. Middle elevations have junipers and rolling grasslands with prickly pear cactus. Low elevations are Sonoran desert with scrub and several types of cactus and desert grasses.
Access
The Tonto and Prescott National Forests cover most of the unit and are open to the public. State and BLM property also provides access. Some private ranches restrict access, but other landowners allow access through their properties.
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
Horner Ranch does not allow public access any longer due to vandalism and littering
Most of the few roads are rough
Vehicles are not allowed in wilderness areas:
Pine Mountain
Cedar Bench
Mazatzal
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp on public land. Motels are in Cave Creek, New River, Black Canyon City, Cordes Junction and Camp Verde. Undeveloped campgrounds include:
Bartlett Lake Recreation Area
Salt Flat (Pine Mountain)
Seven Springs
Historical Temperatures
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