Top Hunting Places in Queen Creek, Arizona

June 27, 2025

Queen Creek, Arizona, offers a unique blend of Sonoran desert terrain, open fields, and prime wildlife zones, making it one of the most underrated hunting destinations in the state. Whether you're pursuing game birds, javelina, mule deer, or coyote, the region’s mix of public land access and nearby Game Management Units (GMUs) provides year-round opportunities for seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.

Best Game Management Units (GMUs) Near Queen Creek

Queen Creek is ideally situated near Arizona Game Management Units 24B, 22, and 27, offering expansive territory and diverse game species. Each unit has unique terrain and wildlife populations, allowing hunters to plan based on the season and game preference.

GMU 24B: Spanning rugged terrain with high desert vegetation, 24B is well known for javelina, mule deer, and the occasional black bear. Most hunters target Coues deer during the late fall and early January hunts.
GMU 22: One of the most productive units for turkey, elk, and black bear, GMU 22 also boasts robust populations of javelina and deer, especially in areas closer to Tonto National Forest.
GMU 27: A bit farther out, but worth the trip for its remote feel and higher elevation elk and deer hunts. For those wanting a true backcountry experience, this unit provides solitude and serious trophy potential.

What You Can Hunt in Queen Creek

Javelina Hunting

The area around Queen Creek is prime javelina territory. These wild pig-like animals roam in groups and are typically active from January to March. Scouting low desert scrub areas and mesquite tree thickets will yield the best results. Archery and general season tags are available through Arizona Game & Fish.

Dove and Quail

For upland bird hunters, Queen Creek shines during the September dove season and winter quail hunts. The town’s agricultural fields, particularly near the San Tan Mountain foothills, are loaded with mourning doves and Gambel’s quail.

Best spots: Hunt the edges of cornfields or alfalfa during dawn and dusk for doves.
Tip: Scouting a few days prior with binoculars helps locate roosting spots.

Coyote and Predator Hunting

With plenty of open desert and agricultural transition zones, Queen Creek offers excellent predator hunting year-round. Coyotes are most active during early morning and just before dusk.

Recommended gear: Use predator calls, electronic decoys, and Tactical Soft Rifle Cases for best results.
Seasons: No closed season for coyotes; check regulations for fox or bobcat.

Mule Deer

During archery season in August–September and again in December–January, hunters can spot-and-stalk mule deer near washes, foothills, and ridgelines. Glassing from high points at first light is the best tactic.

Top Public Lands and Access Points for Hunting

San Tan Mountains Regional Park

Although mostly used for hiking, the adjacent State Trust Land parcels are legal to hunt with a valid permit. The area to the south and east offers access to quail and rabbit populations, perfect for beginner hunters or small game outings.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands

BLM land south of Queen Creek near Florence provides open terrain, mesquite bosque habitat, and access to game bird and predator hunting. Always use the Arizona Hunting Access Map to verify boundaries and legal hunting zones.

Arizona State Trust Lands

Hunting is allowed on many State Trust Lands near Queen Creek, but a recreational use permit is required. These areas, particularly between Queen Creek and Coolidge, are hotspots for rabbit, dove, and coyote.

Essential Gear for Hunting in Queen Creek

Given the desert environment, it’s important to be properly equipped:

Rugged hiking boots for navigating rocky washes and thorny terrain.
CamelBak or water system to stay hydrated in dry conditions.
Good binoculars (10x42 recommended) for glassing hills and spotting game from a distance.
Sun protection including long sleeves, hat, and sunscreen.
GPS or OnX Maps app to avoid trespassing and ensure you're within legal boundaries.

Seasonal Considerations and Weather Patterns

Fall & Winter Hunts

From October to February, temperatures cool down, making it ideal for quail, javelina, and predator hunting. Mornings are crisp, but midday sun can still reach the high 70s, so dress in layers.

Spring Season

While big game activity drops, spring predator hunts are in full swing. Jackrabbits, coyotes, and even bobcats are active and visible.

Summer Scouting

While hunting is limited due to heat, summer is the perfect time to scout mule deer and javelina areas, pattern game, and prepare for fall hunts.

Where to Stay and Resupply

Lodging: Queen Creek and nearby Gilbert or San Tan Valley offer hotels and short-term rentals.
Ammo & Gear: Sportsman’s Warehouse in Mesa and Bass Pro Shops in Phoenix offer everything from ammo to camo.
Food & Fuel: Queen Creek Marketplace has restaurants and grocery stores for stocking up before a multi-day hunt.

Hunting Licenses and Tags in Arizona

All hunters in Arizona must obtain the following:

Hunting License – Resident and non-resident options are available online via the Arizona Game & Fish Department.
Tags or Permits – Depending on the species, tags may be over-the-counter (like javelina and archery deer) or require a draw.

Always review the Arizona Game & Fish regulations booklet annually for changes in season dates, tag allocations, and weapon restrictions.

Hunting Ethics and Land Stewardship

As stewards of Arizona's wildlands, hunters in Queen Creek should practice ethical hunting and responsible land use:

Pack out all trash, including spent shells and food waste.
Respect private property and posted signs.
Report poaching or suspicious activity to Arizona Game & Fish.

By treating the land with respect, we ensure it remains a viable hunting destination for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Queen Creek, Arizona, may not be the first place that comes to mind for hunting in the Southwest, but its proximity to diverse GMUs, accessible public lands, and active wildlife corridors makes it a hidden gem for Arizona hunters. Whether you're chasing doves through dusty fields, glassing ridgelines for Coues deer, or calling coyotes into range at dawn, this desert town offers unforgettable experiences for every hunter or outdoor enthusiast.