Quick Tips
- Climb to vantage points and use high-quality optics
- Javelina are numerous
- Good hunting for several species of quail
- Waterfowl hunting can be good on ponds
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 130"-150" | 150"+ |
| Coues Deer | 85"-100" | 105"+ |
| Antelope | 65"-70" | 75"+ |
On The Ground
Known for Fort Huachuca and the Huachuca Mountains that rise in its center, this unit borders Mexico and is just west of Tombstone. Desert mule deer hunters are restricted to archery gear and muzzleloaders, while Coues deer hunters may select between archery and four rifle seasons.
Coues deer enthusiasts know the Huachuca Mountains as a great place to hunt big Coues deer. Part of the range is in Fort Huachuca, where only military personnel may hunt. There is no rifle mule deer season; there is only archery and muzzleloader. No antelope tags have been issued outside the military base in recent years.
Terrain
At 9,466 feet, Miller Peak is the second highest peak in Cochise County. Low terrain is composed of Sonoran desert and grasslands. Middle-elevation terrain is made up of rocky hillsides and rugged canyons. Above are steep, rocky mountains with long canyons. Hiking can be strenuous in Miller Peak Wilderness.
Roughly 646 square miles
66.8% public land
Elevations vary from 4,200 feet on the San Pedro River to 9,466 feet on Miller Peak
Vegetation
Sonoran desert with desert scrub, cactus and grass at low elevations, desert grasslands with oak and pinyon/juniper at middle elevations with woods, and oaks and pines at high elevations.
Access
The U.S. Army restricts hunting on Fort Huachuca to members of the military. Most other land is open to the public, including part of the Coronado National Forest, BLM property and state ground. Much low-elevation land is private. Hunters may need permission to cross private property to reach some public areas.
ATVs are helpful on rough, rocky and steep roads
Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended
Miller Peak Wilderness area is restricted to foot and horseback travel only
Camping and Lodging
Remote camping is allowed on Coronado National Forest, BLM and state lands. Lodging is in Sierra Vista, Sonoita, Patagonia, Benson and Tombstone. Developed campgrounds include:
Carr Canyon
Parker Canyon Lake
Garden Canyon on Fort Huachuca
Huachuca Canyon on Fort Huachuca
Historical Temperatures
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