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 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

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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Attention Hunters

Information packets will be mailed one month prior to your scheduled hunt. A mandatory orientation will be scheduled one to two days prior to your scheduled hunt; more details and times will be included in your information packet. Check-in and orientation will be located at the Banco Bonito staging area (near mile marker 30 on State Route 4), during which you will receive your vehicle tag and gate combinations.

If you are unable to attend check-in at these times, you must contact the NPS Permit Coordinator at e-mail us to schedule an appointment in advance to receive your orientation.

 

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

 

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.