Top Hunting Places Near Chandler, Arizona
Chandler, Arizona, may be a growing tech and suburban hub in the East Valley, but it’s also surrounded by prime hunting grounds that offer easy access to both desert and mountain-dwelling game species. Within a short drive, hunters can reach a wide range of public lands teeming with javelina, deer, elk, quail, and predators. Whether you're an experienced bowhunter or just getting into upland game bird hunting, Chandler places you in an ideal location to launch your next outdoor pursuit.
1. Game Management Unit 24B – East of Chandler and Full of Game and Opportunity
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Location: Near Superior, Globe, and the Pinal Mountains
Game Available: Coues deer, mule deer, javelina, coyote, bobcat
Just an hour east of Chandler, GMU 24B is one of the most dynamic units in Central Arizona. The landscape is rugged, with deep canyons, rolling hills, and dense vegetation that makes for ideal deer and javelina habitat. It’s also well-suited for spot-and-stalk style hunting and archery seasons.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Coues Deer: December archery or November general rifle
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Javelina: January–February
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Predators: Year-round
Pro Tip: Use binoculars and a tripod for long-distance glassing across canyons, especially in early morning light.
2. Unit 37B – Accessible and Underrated
Location: Southeast of Chandler, near Florence and the Gila River
Game Available: Mule deer, javelina, quail, rabbit, coyote
GMU 37B, just a short drive from Chandler, and offers great hunting without the crowds. The terrain is low desert, scattered with saguaro, mesquite, and dry washes that provide cover for game. It’s a solid unit for bowhunters, small game enthusiasts, and those focused on predator control.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Javelina: Archery in January, general in February
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Mule Deer: Archery in August and December
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Quail: October–February
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Rabbit & Predator: Year-round
Pro Tip: Look for game moving near water sources and cattle tanks, especially in dry periods.
3. San Tan Mountains and State Trust Land – Archery-Only Opportunities
Location: Just south of Chandler and Queen Creek
Game Available: Javelina, rabbit, dove (in season)
The San Tan region includes a mix of state trust land and desert preserves. While firearm hunting is prohibited in many areas due to development, archery hunting is allowed in designated parts under the urban hunt program (GMU 25M). It’s perfect for close-to-home javelina or rabbit hunts.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Javelina: January archery
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Rabbit: Any time with license
Pro Tip: Always carry your State Land Recreation Permit, and use a GPS hunting app like OnX or HuntStand to avoid trespassing into closed zones.
4. Tonto National Forest – High Game Density, just over an hour’s drive away
Location: East of Chandler via US-60 or SR-87
Game Available: Mule deer, elk, javelina, turkey, black bear, mountain lion
Accessible from Chandler in about 90 minutes, the southern portion of Tonto National Forest provides some of the best big game hunting in Arizona. Popular units include 22, 23, and 24B, all of which feature canyons, brushland, and forested mountain slopes.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Deer: October–November (general rifle), December (archery)
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Elk: August–November
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Bear & Lion: Quota-based in fall
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Javelina: January–February
Pro Tip: Hunt burned areas and edge habitat—deer and elk love regrowth zones.
5. Gila River Drainage – Small Game & Predator Heaven
Location: South of Chandler, along the Gila River corridor
Game Available: Cottontail rabbit, quail, dove, coyote
The Gila River corridor offers low desert terrain that’s great for casual small game hunters and those seeking year-round predator opportunities. Always be aware of tribal boundaries near the Gila River Indian Community—stick to State Trust and BLM-managed areas.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Dove: September (early), November–January (late)
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Quail & Rabbit: October–February
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Coyote: Year-round
Pro Tip: Scout in advance and avoid areas too close to development or marked as off-limits. Decoy calls and electronic predator calls are highly effective here.
6. Florence Military Reservation (FMAR) – With Proper Authorization
Location: Southeast of Chandler, near Florence Junction
Game Available: Mule deer, javelina, dove, quail, rabbit
FMAR is part of the Arizona National Guard's land but is open to public hunting with a permit and proper coordination. It's managed by the Arizona Game & Fish Department and features a surprising variety of upland and big game hunting opportunities.
Best Time to Hunt:
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Javelina: January and February
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Small Game: Fall through early spring
Pro Tip: You must attend an orientation session and apply for an access permit via the AZGFD website before hunting here.
What You Need to Hunt Near Chandler, AZ
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Valid Arizona hunting license (resident or non-resident)
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Tags or over-the-counter (OTC) permits depending on species
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State Land Recreation Permit for any State Trust Land access
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A GPS hunting app such as OnX Hunt to avoid land boundary issues
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Proper archery or firearm gear for designated units
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Plenty of water, sun protection, and first aid for desert hunts
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Appropriate firearm (secured in quality tactical soft rifle cases) or bow per regulation
Hunting Safety and Ethics in the East Valley
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Follow urban hunt regulations in Units like 25M
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Respect posted signs, fencing, and nearby development near Chandler’s growing edges
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Always verify land ownership—private, BLM, or State Trust
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Avoid high-traffic days by scouting midweek
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Leave no trace—pack out all shell casings, trash, and debris
Conclusion
Chandler may be part of the Greater Phoenix Metro, but it offers quick access to some of Arizona’s most productive and accessible hunting zones. Whether you’re targeting javelina in Unit 24B, glassing for muleys in Tonto National Forest, or pursuing small game along the Gila, Chandler gives hunters the best of both worlds: suburban convenience and outdoor adventure. With the right tags, gear, and planning, you can enjoy unforgettable hunts just a short drive from home.
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