Hunting in Valles Caldera

A hunter glassing before his hunt.

NPS/Monte White

Elk Hunting

Valles Caldera National Preserve is one of New Mexico's premier elk hunting locations. Between 2,500 and 3,000 elk occupy the preserve for breeding, calving and foraging. Hunts are designed to pay homage to man's oldest relationship with animals by providing the public with a memorable hunting experience. September, October, and November are the best time frames for prescribed fire season. While on your hunt you may encounter smoke, fire crews, fire equipment, road closures and closures to portions of the preserve.

Turkey Hunting

Merriam Turkeys, one of the three subspecies found in New Mexico, are noted for their striking plumage, wariness and keen eyesight. Turkey hunting, whether with bow or shotgun, can be a challenge for all skill levels. From April thru December, the preserve is home to an estimated 400 Merriam Turkeys.

How To Apply For Hunts

The elk and turkey hunting lotteries/drawings for the Valles Caldera National Preserve are part of the draw managed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF). Information on how to apply for the state drawings can be found on the NMDGF website or by calling 1-888-248-6866. The Valles Caldera National Preserve is Unit 6B.

For information about hunt dates, number of licenses available, bag limit, state regulations, etc., please visit the NMDGF website or call 1-888-248-6866.

Details

Activity

Hunting

Hunting is a permitted use under the enabling legislation for Valles Caldera National Preserve (Public Law 113-231, Sec. 3043) and can be done in accordance with applicable Federal and State law. The legislation also provides for the designation of zones and periods when no hunting is permitted for reasons of public safety, administration, wildlife management, or public use and enjoyment.

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

Banco Bonito

Banco Bonito is the hunting headquarters for Valles Caldera National Preserve. This is where all hunting orientations take place and where permit holders are authorized to camp during their hunt.

Reservations

Yes

The elk and turkey hunting lotteries/drawings for Valles Caldera National Preserve are part of the draw managed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF). Information on how to apply for the state drawings can be found on the NMDGF website or by calling 1-888-248-6866. Valles Caldera National Preserve is Unit 6B.

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The elk hunt runs from September thru December.
The turkey hunt runs from April thru December.

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

The hunt times run from 4:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Accessibility Information

The roads and trails in the preserve are not wheelchair accessible.