Quick Tips
- Limited cell phone service, often none
- Carry a SPOT emergency transmitter
- Unit 12 is popular among chukar hunters
- Expect competition for space after October
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 140"-160" | 160"+ |
| Antelope | 70"-80" | 80"+ |
| California Bighorn Sheep | 145"-155" | 155"+ |
On The Ground
Largely public land covered mostly with desert brush, this unit contains the Calico Mountains and much of the Black Rock Desert. Mule deer, California bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope live here. Hunters enjoy good road access but must hike to reach some areas.
This is a good place to hunt California bighorn sheep and antelope. Most deer are found near water or at high elevations.
Terrain
The Calico Hills and High Rock Canyon have broken topography and steep slopes. Elsewhere terrain is mild. Elevations range from about 4,000 feet in the Black Rock Desert to 8,500-foot Donnelly Peak.
Roughly 1,077 square miles
93.7% public land
Elevations from 4,000-8,500 feet
Vegetation
Mostly sagebrush with scattered stands of bitterbrush and mountain mahogany. Limited playa plants and saltbush.
Access
Public road access is good, but no vehicles are allowed in designated wilderness or in wilderness study areas. County Roads 217 and 34 are the east and west boundaries of the unit and are major routes for access into some parts. County Road 8A is the northern boundary and provides good access to the north.
Wilderness areas include:
Calico Mountains
High Rock Lake
Little High Rock Canyon
High Rock Canyon
East Fork High Rock Canyon
Camping and Lodging
There are no convenience stores, gas stations or paved roads. Carry plenty of supplies, food, water and spare tires. Cedarville, California, is near the north, while Gerlach is near the south.
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