Quick Tips
- Some great Coues deer hunting can be found in wilderness areas
- Great rams are harvested in Unit 32
- High-quality optics and patience help greatly to see big Coues deer
- Javelina found across unit
- Quail hunting for multiple species in fall and winter
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 160"+ |
| Coues Deer | 85"-100" | 105"+ |
| Elk | 260"-300" | 300"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-75" | 75"+ |
| Desert Bighorn Sheep | 160"-170" | 175"+ |
On The Ground
Running almost 70 miles from Aravaipa Canyon in the north to Benson in the south, this unit has low deserts and rugged, steep and high roadless mountains. Coues deer, mule deer and desert bighorn sheep are mainly found on public land.
Often called the Aravaipa for the wilderness area at its north end, this unit is known for having produced several big desert bighorn sheep and trophy class Coues deer. Hunters also take mature mule deer and antelope bucks. Coues bucks are typically found in high mountains.
Terrain
Terrain varies from gently sloping desert grasslands at Bonita and Allen Flat to the steep, rugged canyons of Aravaipa Creek and the Galiuro Mountains. High points are in the Winchester and the Galiuro mountains.
Roughly 1,534 square miles
75.6% public land
Elevations from 2,175 in the northwest corner to about 7,660 feet in the Galiuro Wilderness
Vegetation
Lowlands are classic Sonoran desert with desert scrub, cactus and grass. Cottonwoods and willows grow along Aravaipa Creek and the San Pedro River. Desert grasslands and oak and juniper woodlands are at middle elevations. Pines and other conifers grow at high elevations in the Galiuro Mountains. Trees and brush are thick in much of the middle and higher elevations.
Access
Most land is public and is managed by the Coronado National Forest, the BLM and the state. Private land restricts access in some low terrain.
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
Galiuro, Redfield Canyon and Aravaipa Canyon wilderness areas are closed to vehicles
Camping and Lodging
Most hunters camp on Coronado National Forest, BLM and state lands. Lodging is in Benson, Willcox and San Manuel. Fourmile Canyon Campground is a year-round area located in Klondyke, just 0.75 miles southwest of the site on Fourmile Canyon Road. This is a 10-unit campground with tables, grills, toilets, water and trash cans, but no hookups. Daily fees are charged. Camping also is permitted on adjacent public lands with no facilities.
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