Quick Tips
- Hike into the Superstition Wilderness for good Coues deer hunting
- Javelina are numerous
- Bring a shotgun for quail hunting
- Get in good shape to hunt steep, rocky mountains
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Coues Deer | 80"-100" | 100"+ |
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 160"-175" | 175"+ |
On The Ground
Just east of Phoenix, this unit comprises rugged desert canyons and mountains, including the Superstition Wilderness. The state issues permits for mule deer, Coues deer and desert bighorn sheep. Sheep seasons are held in three subunits.
This unit is known for big Coues deer and world class desert bighorn sheep. It also has some decent desert mule deer.
Terrain
Lower elevations in the southwest part of unit are desert with rolling hills and mesas. Steep canyons and rugged mountains across much of the unit, in the middle and upper elevations.
Roughly 777 square miles
94.6% public land
Elevations range from about 1,600-6,300 feet
Vegetation
Ponderosa pines grow in some high mountains, along with pinyon pines and junipers. Middle-elevation lands have cactus, chaparral, pinyon and juniper woods. Lower elevations are high Sonoran desert with cactus, desert scrub, palo verde trees and grasses.
Access
Roughly 80% of this unit is federal land in the Tonto National Forest, where public access is good. The southwestern corner is state land and about one-third of the unit is in the Superstition Wilderness, where no vehicles are allowed.
Some private property is in the Miami area
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp in the Tonto National Forest. Motels are in Apache Junction, Superior and the Globe/Miami area. Developed campgrounds include:
Lost Dutchman State Park
Tortilla Flat Campground on Apache Lake
Burnt Corral Campground on Apache Lake
Parker Springs Campground
Schoolhouse Campground on Roosevelt Lake
Undeveloped campgrounds include:
Oak Flat Campground
Coon Bluff Campground
Gold Field Campground
Phon D. Sutton Campground
Water Users Campground
Historical Temperatures
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