Top Hunting Places in Santa Ana, California

Santa Ana, located in the heart of Orange County, offers outdoor enthusiasts a unique access to diverse terrain, from coastal wetlands to chaparral-covered hills. While not traditionally known as a hunting hub, the region is within close proximity to some of California's top hunting areas, where sportsmen can pursue game such as deer, wild pigs, upland birds, waterfowl, and even small game. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive look at the top hunting locations accessible from Santa Ana, with insights into species, seasons, access points, and tips for a successful hunt.

Trabuco Ranger District – Cleveland National Forest

Just a short drive east of Santa Ana lies the Cleveland National Forest, particularly the Trabuco Ranger District, offers vast public land where hunters can legally pursue game during designated seasons.

Primary Game:

• Mule Deer
  
• Wild Turkey
  
• Coyotes
  
• Bobcats
  
• Rabbits and Quail
  

Highlights:

• Offers rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet.
  
• Best access points include Holy Jim Trailhead and Trabuco Creek Road.
  
• Archery and rifle hunting are both permitted during appropriate seasons.
  

Tip:

Obtain an Adventure Pass for parking and familiarize yourself with the Hunting Zones D16 and D19, since regulations may vary by location and game type.

 

San Jacinto Wildlife Area

Located approximately an hour’s drive from Santa Ana, this wildlife preserve in Riverside County is a top-tier destination for both waterfowl hunting and upland game.

Primary Game:

• Mallards
  
• Pintails
  
• Doves
  
• Pheasants
  
• Coots
  

Highlights:

• Managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).
  
• Popular draw system for waterfowl blinds during duck season.
  
• Fields are planted for dove and pheasant seasons, increasing bird density.
  

Tip:

Arrive early for lottery drawings or apply in advance through the CDFW reservation system. Bring waders, as some marshlands can be deep.

Tejon Ranch – Premium Private Hunting

For those seeking a premium experience, Tejon Ranch in Kern County is a top private hunting destination roughly 2.5 hours north of Santa Ana.

Primary Game:

• Wild Boars
  
• Tule Elk (Limited Tags)
  
• Mule Deer
  
• Black Bear
  
• Predators (coyote, bobcat)
  

Highlights:

• Offers guided and semi-guided hunts with high success rates.
  
• Ideal for both novice and experienced hunters looking for trophy game.
  
• Lodging and full amenities available on-site.
  

Tip:

While pricey, the experience is unmatched in terms of game quality, terrain, and professionalism. It’s also great for corporate retreats or weekend getaways.

Carrizo Plain National Monument

For the seasoned hunter willing to travel a bit farther (about 4 hours north), Carrizo Plain offers a remote and less crowded location for big game.

Primary Game:

• Tule Elk (by tag only)
  
• Mule Deer
  
• Wild Pig
  
• Jackrabbit and Ground Squirrel
  

Highlights:

• Vast, open grasslands and rolling hills make for an ideal spot-and-stalk environment.
  
• Located within Zone A South; be sure to check tag availability and quotas.
  
• Excellent for long-range shooting practice.
  

Tip:

Due to its remote location, be prepared with extra supplies, GPS devices, and always notify someone of your hunting plan.

Los Padres National Forest – Southern Section

This expansive forest offers diverse hunting opportunities and is accessible via the Highway 33 corridor, roughly 2 hours northwest of Santa Ana.

Primary Game:

• Black-tailed Deer
  
• Mountain Quail
  
• Wild Pig
  
• Squirrels and Rabbits
  

Highlights:

• Popular among archery hunters due to the thick brush and steep canyons.
  
• Permits backcountry camping and multi-day hunts.
  
• Includes portions of Zone A and Zone D13—verify regulations before heading out.
  

Tip:

Early scouting is key here. Download offline topo maps and bring binoculars for glassing ridgelines and valleys.

 

Lytle Creek and San Bernardino Mountains

If you're short on time, Lytle Creek is just over an hour from Santa Ana and offers decent hunting for small and upland game.

Primary Game:

• California Quail
  
• Rabbits
  
• Coyotes
  
• Occasional Deer
  

Highlights:

• Easily accessible from Interstate 15.
  
• Popular for day trips and close-range hunting with shotguns or bows.
  
• Requires an Adventure Pass for parking.
  

Tip:

This area sees more foot traffic and occasional target shooting crowds—try visiting midweek for lighter foot traffic.

Hunting Gear and Licensing Requirements in Santa Ana

Essentials for California Hunting:

• California Hunting License (required for all hunters over 16)
  
• Validation stamps for species like ducks and upland birds
  
• Non-lead ammunition (mandatory in all zones)
  
• Hunting maps and zone regulations from the CDFW
  

For local resources, Turner’s Outdoorsman in nearby Orange or Fountain Valley offers everything from ammunition to high-quality optics and licensing assistance.

 

Best Times to Hunt Near Santa Ana

 

Respect the Land – Ethics and Safety

As hunters, we must always act as conservationists and stewards of the wild. Ensure that:

• All firearms are transported safely and legally.
  
• Trash is packed out and campsites are left cleaner than found.
  
• Local landowners and trail users are respected at all times.
  

Responsible hunting ensures continued access and support for our rights as sportsmen in California.

Final Thoughts

Santa Ana may not be located directly within a hunting zone, but its central location in Southern California puts it within reach of some of the most exciting and diverse hunting terrain in the state. Whether you're a seasoned big game hunter or just getting started with upland birds, there’s likely a hunting spot within driving distance to suit your style.