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.

 
Elk herd at Valles Caldera
Elk herd at Valles Caldera

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.

 
Turkeys at Valles Caldera
Turkeys at Valles Caldera

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.

 

Need to Know

Information every hunter needs to know

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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. 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.

 

Hunting Permit

Got your New Mexico draw for Valles Caldera? Apply for your hunting permit.

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Hunting Dates

NMDGF sets ALL hunting dates, types, limits, residency requirements, etc. For questions about hunting dates, types, limits, residency requirements, etc., please contact NMDGF.

Turkey Hunts Unit 6B

  • Deadline to apply for draw permits = February 14, 2024
  • TUR-1-103 Hunt dates = (April 15 - 30), 20 tags, 1 bearded turkey

Elk Hunts Unit 6B

  • Deadline to apply for draw permits = March 20, 2024
  • Hunt dates
HUNT METHOD SPECIALTY DATES Type TAGS
ELK-2-219 Archery September 1-14 ES 25
ELK-2-220 Archery NM Residents Only September 1-14 A 10
ELK-2-221 Archery September 15-24 ES 25
ELK-2-222 Archery NM Residents Only September 15-24 A 10
ELK-3-223 Muzzle October 5-9 ES 15
ELK-3-224 Muzzle NM Residents Only October 5-9 A 20
ELK-1-225 Any Legal October 12-16 ES 15
ELK-1-226 Any Legal NM Residents Only October 12-16 A 20
ELK-1-227 Any Legal October 19-23 ES 20
ELK-1-228 Any Legal NM Residents Only October 19-23 A 15
ELK-1-229 Any Legal Youth Only, NM Residents Only Oct 26-30 A 35
ELK-1-230 Any Legal NM Residents Only November 2-6 A 35
ELK-1-231 Any Legal NM Residents Only November 16-20 A 35
ELK-1-232 Any Legal Youth Only, NM Residents Only November 23-27 A 35
ELK-1-233 Any Legal NM Residents Only November 30-December 4 A 35
350
 
A color-coded map showing hunting zones and no-hunting zones at Valles Caldera National Preserve. All park roads, Valle Grande, Redondo Peak, Rabbit Mountain, and South Mountain are off-limits for hunting.
Map showing authorized motor vehicle and e-bike routes for Valles Caldera hunting permit holders during their designated hunt.

NPS

No Hunting Zones

Hunting is prohibited in the front-country including Valle Grande, South Mountain, and Rabbit Mountain. Visitors are advised to wear bright colors outside the "No Hunting" zone during hunting season.

Last updated: June 25, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

090 Villa Louis Martin Dr.
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Phone:

505-670-1612
Ranger Station (for general park information)

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