Top Hunting Places in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale, Arizona, is not only known for its luxury resorts and stunning desert landscapes—it also boasts some of the most diverse and rewarding hunting grounds in the Southwest. With a combination of Sonoran Desert terrain, game-rich wooded areas, and proximity to vast public lands, Scottsdale provides both seasoned hunters and enthusiastic beginners with outstanding opportunities. In this guide, we’ll cover the top hunting areas, what game you’ll find, when to go, and essential tips to make the most of your hunting trip in and around Scottsdale.

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1. McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Ideal for Small Game and Predator Control

Location: Northeast Scottsdale
Game Available: Coyote, rabbit, quail

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, spanning over 30,000 acres, is a vast expanse of protected desert terrain. While some zones are off-limits to hunting, specific areas bordering Arizona Game Management Units (GMUs) may permit controlled predator and small game hunting. Coyotes are prevalent here and are often part of wildlife management programs.

Best Time to Hunt: Early morning or late evening during the cooler months (October–March) for coyote and jackrabbit activity.

Pro Tip: Always check city ordinances and Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) maps for legal boundaries, as much of this land abuts residential areas.

2. Tonto National Forest – Premier Big Game Territory

Location: Just east of Scottsdale
Game Available: Mule deer, white-tailed deer, javelina, turkey, elk, black bear, mountain lion

As one of the largest national forests in the U.S., Tonto National Forest is a hunter’s dream destination. Divided into multiple Game Management Units (including Unit 22 and Unit 23), it offers diverse elevations and ecosystems—from Sonoran lowlands to Ponderosa pine forests—ideal for pursuing a wide variety of game.

Mule deer are the most common big game target, but javelina season attracts hunters from all over Arizona. Elk and black bear hunts are permitted with the appropriate tags, though these are more common at higher elevations closer to Payson and the Mogollon Rim.

Best Time to Hunt:

• Deer: October to December (rifle and archery seasons)
  
• Javelina: January to February
  
• Turkey: April and fall seasons
  
• Bear and lion: Varies by zone and quota status
  

Pro Tip: Always obtain your hunting license and the proper tags through the AZGFD draw system. The Tonto is rugged, so be prepared for off-road travel and steep terrain.

3. Unit 25M (Urban Hunt Unit) – Bowhunting Only for Javelina and Rabbit

Location: Inside the Phoenix Metro Area, including parts of Scottsdale
Game Available: Javelina, cottontail rabbit, quail

For bowhunters looking for convenient local opportunities, Unit 25M is a specialized urban unit that permits archery-only hunting in designated areas. This includes certain parts of Scottsdale, particularly near undeveloped washes and desert areas.

Best Time to Hunt:

• Javelina: January–February
  
• Cottontail and Quail: September–February
  

Pro Tip: Carry a GPS mapping app such as OnX Hunt to avoid entering no-hunt zones. This unit is perfect for post-work hunts or weekend mornings without a long drive.

4. Four Peaks Wilderness – Rugged and Rewarding

Location: Northeast of Scottsdale in the Mazatzal Mountains
Game Available: Black bear, mountain lion, mule deer, elk, javelina

Part of Tonto National Forest, Four Peaks Wilderness offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hunts in the region. This is a remote area best suited for experienced hunters in search of big game and solitude.

Best Time to Hunt:

• Elk and deer: Archery seasons begin in late August
  
• Bear and lion: Open seasons vary; consult the annual hunt recommendations
  

Pro Tip: Bring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. This area has limited road access and long hiking distances, so plan for multi-day trips and backcountry camping if you're after elusive trophy game.

5. Rio Verde Foothills – Accessible Small Game Hunting

Location: North Scottsdale / South Tonto National Forest
Game Available: Dove, quail, rabbit

Located just beyond the Scottsdale city limits, the Rio Verde area offers easily accessible public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). It’s an excellent spot for upland bird hunting, especially during the early dove season in September.

Best Time to Hunt:

• Dove: September 1–15 (early season), November–January (late season)
  
• Quail: October–February
  
• Rabbit: Year-round with hunting license
  

Pro Tip: This area is popular with off-roaders and hikers, so wear hunter orange and be especially mindful of your surroundings.

6. Scottsdale to Cave Creek Corridor – Predator Hunting and More

Location: North Scottsdale into Cave Creek
Game Available: Coyote, bobcat, fox

With semi-rural neighborhoods bordering large expanses of desert, the Scottsdale–Cave Creek corridor presents prime ground for predator control hunts. Coyote populations remain high in these parts, and ethical hunters can assist local ranchers by managing numbers.

Best Time to Hunt:

• Year-round for predators, but best in winter months for visibility and pelts
  

Pro Tip: Use electronic calls and set up near washes or game trails. Scout with trail cams if possible to pinpoint active zones.

What You Need to Hunt in Scottsdale, AZ

Before heading out, ensure you have the following:

• Valid Arizona hunting license (available online at AZGFD.gov)
  
• Required tags or stamps (for big game or migratory birds)
  
• Map of Game Management Units
  
• OnX Hunt or similar GPS mapping app
  
• Appropriate firearm (secured in quality tactical soft rifle cases) or bow per regulation
  
• Field dressing kit and first aid supplies
  

Hunting Tips for Success in Arizona’s Desert Landscape

• Stay hydrated – Carry more water than you think you’ll need.
  
• Glass frequently – The terrain favors spot-and-stalk hunting, especially for mule deer and elk.
  
• Respect property lines – Many hunting zones border private land. Always get permission if necessary.
  
• Know your seasons and legal hours – All game in Arizona has defined open/closed seasons and time-of-day limits.
  
• Check quotas in real-time – Especially for bear and lion hunts, quotas fill quickly and close zones early.
  

Conclusion

Scottsdale is more than upscale golf and spas—it’s a gateway to serious hunting opportunities. Whether you're looking to hunt quail at sunrise, stalk mule deer in the forested rim country, or stealthily bowhunt javelina in the urban desert, Scottsdale and its surroundings offer something for every hunter.

Preparation, scouting, and respect for local laws and habitats are key to making the most of your experience in Arizona's wild terrain.