Top Hunting Places in Peoria, Arizona

June 26, 2025

Peoria, Arizona stands as one of the most underrated hunting destinations in the Southwest. Nestled between desert terrain and mountain ranges, Peoria offers a wide variety of game species, accessible public land, and hunting opportunities that rival Arizona’s more publicized regions. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, the hunting grounds near Peoria deliver an authentic, rugged experience for every enthusiast.

Best Hunting Areas Around Peoria, AZ

1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a top-tier hunting location located just northwest of Peoria. This sprawling area encompasses over 23,000 acres of rugged desert terrain and is one of the few places in Arizona that allows limited hunting near a major water source.

Game Species: Dove, quail, rabbit, and mule deer.
Terrain: A mix of desert flats, rocky hillsides, and riparian vegetation.
Regulations: Hunting is allowed in designated areas; consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) hunting map for specifics.

Pro Tip: Dove season is especially active in early September. Scout the water sources and gravel patches near sunrise.

2. Hieroglyphic Mountains – Unit 20B

Just to the north of Peoria lies Game Management Unit 20B, home to the Hieroglyphic Mountains, a hidden gem for mule deer and javelina hunters.

Game Species: Mule deer, javelina, coyote, and occasional mountain lion.
Access Points: Use Table Mesa Road or Castle Hot Springs Road for entry.
Ideal Seasons: Mule deer archery season in late August to early September; javelina in January.

This area is ideal for those who prefer backcountry, spot-and-stalk hunting. Its rugged landscape offers both challenge and solitude.

3. Vistancia Desert Corridor

Bordering Peoria’s expanding residential edge is a lesser-known strip of desert along the Vistancia development. While much of it borders private land, state trust land permits open up ample ground for small game.

Game Species: Gambel’s quail, cottontail rabbit, Eurasian collared dove.
Hunting Tip: Get a Recreational Permit from the Arizona State Land Department before access.
Why It’s Underrated: The mixture of man-made water runoff and open desert makes it a surprising hotspot for quail.

4. Agua Fria National Monument

Approximately 30–45 minutes north of Peoria lies the expansive Agua Fria National Monument, part of Unit 21. This area is popular for its rich archaeological sites but also provides ample space for game hunting.

Game Species: Mule deer, javelina, bobcat, coyote.
Habitat: Open grasslands, mesas, and basalt canyons.
Access: From I-17, exit at Bloody Basin Road.

This unit is known for great glassing points—ideal for early morning spot-and-stalk.

What to Hunt in Peoria, AZ

Mule Deer

Peoria sits at the edge of several productive mule deer units. Archery season provides hunters the chance to harvest deer in August (velvet bucks) or again in December-January during the rut.

Weapon Type: Archery, rifle (based on draw).
Tactics: Glassing hillsides and stalking near mesquite draws.

Dove and Quail

Every fall, mourning dove and Gambel’s quail draw thousands of hunters to the Peoria area. The combination of desert scrub and scattered agriculture creates prime birding conditions.

Opening Day (Dove): September 1st — a Peoria tradition.
Best Gear: 12 or 20-gauge with improved cylinder choke and #7.5 shot.

Javelina

Arizona's javelina population is strong, and Units 20B and 21 are well-known for accessible herds.

Season: January (archery), February (handgun/muzzleloader/rifle).
Hunting Method: Glassing slopes and stalking slowly into the wind.

These animals are scent-driven, so scent control and careful wind consideration are essential for success.

Hunting Regulations and Licensing

To legally hunt in Peoria and surrounding regions:

License: Obtain a valid Arizona Hunting License from AZGFD.
Tags: Required for big game such as mule deer and javelina; enter draw lotteries in early summer.
Permits: State Trust Land and Special Use Permits may be needed for certain access zones.

Always check the latest Game and Fish regulations, as boundaries, seasons, and bag limits can shift annually.

Gear Recommendations for Peoria Hunts

Footwear

Use lightweight, breathable boots with strong ankle support. Desert terrain means rocks, cactus, and sudden elevation changes.

Optics

Glassing is critical. We recommend at least 10x42 binoculars and a spotting scope if pursuing big game in Units 20B or 21.

Camouflage

Use neutral desert patterns that blend with mesquite, palo verde, and rocky washes. Early seasons demand lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing. Appropriate firearm (secured in quality tactical soft rifle cases) or bow per regulation

Navigation

Cell reception is limited. Download onX Hunt or GAIA GPS maps for offline use, and always carry a backup compass and paper map.

Top Tips for a Successful Peoria Hunt

Scout Early – Visit areas weeks in advance to learn terrain and locate game trails or water sources.
Hunt the Edges – Game often moves along the transition between residential growth and desert.
Respect the Land – Whether you're on public or trust land, pack out everything you pack in.
Watch the Weather – Arizona monsoon rains (July–September) can affect road access and animal movement.
Rise Early – Game in the desert is most active from first light until about 10 a.m.

Where to Stay and Resupply

Lodging: Hotels in northern Peoria or nearby Anthem offer easy highway access.
Camping: Dispersed camping available in Agua Fria and Hieroglyphic areas.
Supplies: Bass Pro Shops (Glendale), Sportsman's Warehouse (Phoenix), and local gas stations for ammo and snacks.

Why Peoria is Perfect for the DIY Hunter

Peoria offers a mix of DIY accessibility, diverse species, and scenic solitude. You won’t need a guide to enjoy these lands—just a plan, solid boots, and an eye on the horizon. For Arizonans and out-of-state hunters alike, this area is an affordable, rugged, and underappreciated hotspot for every style of hunter.