Arizona Hunt Unit 22 Map – Exploring Trophy Country, Trails & Wild Beauty
- ADVENTURE iDIAZ
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
Arizona Hunt Unit 22 is one of the most diverse and dynamic hunting and recreation areas in the state. Stretching from the Mogollon Rim high country down into the Sonoran Desert foothills, this unit offers a remarkable blend of rugged terrain, wildlife diversity, and year-round outdoor opportunities. Whether you’re here to hunt, fish, hike, or camp, Unit 22 provides endless adventures in the heart of central Arizona.
Terrain, Boundaries & Access
Unit 22 lies primarily within the Tonto National Forest, bounded by the Mogollon Rim to the north, the Salt River to the south, and the Verde River to the west. The elevation ranges from around 2,000 feet near the rivers to over 7,500 feet on the Rim, creating a striking variety of landscapes.
The vegetation reflects this dramatic elevation change. Higher elevations near the Rim are dominated by dense ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests, with stands of oak and juniper transitioning into mid-elevation mesas. As you descend, the land gives way to pinyon-juniper woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands, eventually merging into classic Sonoran Desert vegetation of mesquite, palo verde, and towering saguaro cacti.
Access throughout the unit is extensive, thanks to a network of Forest Service roads and trails, though conditions can vary. The rugged topography means some areas are steep and challenging, while others open into rolling mesas and canyons. Hunters and recreationists alike should be prepared with good maps, high-clearance vehicles, and respect for seasonal closures or restrictions.
Land Ownership Breakdown
Public land: Primarily Tonto National Forest, with significant access for recreation and hunting.
State Trust & BLM lands: Scattered parcels throughout the unit; some require permits for recreational use.
Private land: Intermixed in valleys and along river corridors; access may be restricted, so always check before entering.
Adjacent tribal land: Includes portions near the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and White Mountain Apache Reservation boundaries.
Always verify land status and access requirements before your trip.
Hunting in Arizona Hunt Unit 22
Unit 22 is considered one of Arizona’s premier hunting areas, often referred to as “trophy country.” Its diverse terrain and habitats provide opportunities for multiple species:
Elk – Found primarily in the northern portion near the Mogollon Rim, Unit 22 offers solid bull elk hunting, though
tags are limited and highly sought after.
Mule Deer – Common in mid- to high-elevations, especially where pinyon-juniper and chaparral meet open country.
Coues Whitetail Deer – Thrive in the mid-elevation canyons and foothills. Unit 22 has a reputation for producing quality Coues bucks.
Javelina – Widespread in the lower desert elevations, often near prickly pear cactus and mesquite thickets.
Black Bear & Mountain Lion – Both species are present in the rugged canyons and Rim country. Bear populations are healthy, particularly in oak and chaparral zones with seasonal acorn crops.
Turkey – Merriam’s turkey are found in the higher pine and oak forests near the Rim.
Small Game – Gambel’s quail, cottontail rabbits, and tree squirrels round out the variety for small-game hunters.
Why Unit 22 is so desirable: It’s one of the rare places in Arizona where hunters can pursue both high-country big game like elk and turkey, and low-desert game like javelina and quail, all within the same unit. This mix of species, combined with excellent trophy potential and accessible public land, makes Unit 22 a top choice for both resident and nonresident hunters.
For specific regulations, draw odds, and season details, consult the Arizona Game & Fish Department’s Unit 22 page.
Fishing & Waterfowl
Fishing in Unit 22 is equally rewarding, thanks to its mix of rivers, streams, and high-country lakes. The Salt River and Verde River cut through the unit, offering year-round fishing opportunities for species such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, catfish, and carp. These waterways are scenic and provide a refreshing escape, particularly in the warmer months.
The high-country lakes and streams near the Mogollon Rim, such as Tonto Creek and Canyon Creek, are stocked with rainbow and brown trout and attract anglers from across the state. These cool waters, surrounded by pines, offer not just great fishing but also a welcome respite from desert heat.
While not a primary waterfowl destination compared to Arizona’s larger reservoirs or wetlands, some duck hunting opportunities may exist along the Salt and Verde rivers during the season.
Exploring Trails and Campsites with the Arizona Hunt Unit 22 Map
Hiking
Hiking in Unit 22 is an adventure that showcases Arizona’s contrasts. From desert canyons to alpine forests, trails here offer something for every level of explorer. Popular trails include:
Highline Trail – Running below the Mogollon Rim, this historic trail stretches for over 50 miles and offers panoramic views of Rim country.
Barnhardt Trail – A challenging trek into the Mazatzal Wilderness with waterfalls, wildflowers, and dramatic canyon scenery.
See Canyon Trail – A lush forested hike leading to springs and cooler elevations.
These trails allow hikers to immerse themselves in the area’s wild beauty, with chances to spot wildlife and enjoy seasonal color changes.
Camping
Camping in Unit 22 ranges from developed campgrounds to dispersed forest sites:
Payson Campgrounds (Houston Mesa, Christopher Creek, Sharp Creek) – Family-friendly sites with amenities, great for Rim access.
Haigler Canyon & Canyon Creek Areas – More remote, offering peaceful forest settings near trout streams.
Dispersed Camping – Available throughout much of Tonto National Forest, giving adventurous campers solitude under the stars.
Camping here means waking to crisp pine air in the high country or listening to coyotes under desert skies in the lowlands. The variety of camping experiences is a major draw for outdoors enthusiasts.
History & Cultural Significance
Unit 22 is steeped in history, from its role in Arizona’s pioneer cattle-ranching days to its deep Native American connections. The area was once inhabited by the Tonto Apache and Yavapai peoples, whose presence is still evident in artifacts, petroglyphs, and historic sites scattered throughout the region.
One significant historical tie is to the Mazatzal Mountains, a rugged wilderness that holds cultural importance for local tribes and later became a corridor for early explorers and settlers. The Mogollon Rim itself also served as a natural boundary and passageway for native groups, shaping travel and seasonal movement for centuries.
Today, visitors can still sense this layered history while exploring the canyons, trails, and rivers that have sustained people for millennia.
Trusted Arizona Maps Built for the Outdoors
At ADVENTURE iDIAZ, we’ve invested years of time, miles in the field, and careful research to create maps that meet the real needs of hunters and outdoor enthusiasts across Arizona. What began as a small, family-driven effort has grown into a trusted source for accurate, field-ready maps relied upon by hunters, hikers, off-roaders, and even search and rescue teams.
Our maps are built from firsthand use—crafted to perform in rugged conditions, highlight the most essential details, and help ensure safe, successful outings.
Key Features You Can Count On:
Multi-Sourced Road Names & Trails – Includes more roads and trails than any other printed map
Extensive Water Source Markings – Lakes, ponds, creeks, tanks, and springs clearly labeled for quick reference in the field
Easy to Read & Follow – Clear labeling, intuitive layout, and user-focused design
Durable & Weather-Resistant Material – Tear- and water-resistant to handle spills, rough terrain, and outdoor use
Compact & Field-Ready Design – Lightweight, easy to fold and pack; 1:100k scale
Detailed Topographics – Elevation, contour lines, and terrain awareness at a glance
Campgrounds & Picnic Areas – Conveniently marked for planning trips
Exceptional Design Quality – Full-color maps that are both functional and visually striking
Snowmobile Areas & Points of Interest – Plus many additional features
It’s not just a map—it’s your ticket to hunting smarter, exploring deeper, and making the most of Unit 22.
Your Next Great Adventure Starts in Unit 22
Arizona Hunt Unit 22 is a dream unit for hunters, anglers, and outdoor adventurers. Its mix of habitats, species, and history makes it one of the most diverse and rewarding places to explore in the Southwest. Whether you’re glassing for elk on a ridge, chasing trout in a cold stream, or hiking into the Salt River Canyon, this unit has it all.
Don’t head out without your ADVENTURE iDIAZ Arizona Hunt Unit 22 map—the most detailed and field-tested map you’ll find. Grab yours today and make your next trip to Unit 22 unforgettable.
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