At a Glance
Quick Tips
- This area is a major urban population
- Chances are high that you'll just be enjoying time in nature and being with others
- Great deep sea fishing charters
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |


Hunters report positive expectations for California’s Zone D-16 due to improved water conditions filling ponds and creeks, which can benefit wildlife populations. There's valuable insight regarding zone-specific regulations, highlighting the necessity of understanding parking permits like the Forest Adventure Pass in Cleveland National Forest’s Descanso District. Hunters also appreciate the inclusion of unique, region-specific tips, such as deep-sea fishing opportunities, which enhance the overall outdoor experience. Clarifications on season dates and tagging regulations distinguish between D-16 and A22 permits, underscoring the need for hunters to be well-versed in the specific regulations to optimize their hunting strategy.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | Dummy | Dummy |
Zone D-16 located in portions of Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties.
This area is a major urban population. Chances are high that you'll just be "enjoying time in nature" and being with others. During rifle season plenty of folks, emptying magazines at bucks between themselves and other hunters. Be safe, be friendly, this is supposed to be a sport for fun.
The terrain in this zone varies from flat bottom land to rolling hills, up into some mountainous canyon country.
Although there is a lot of private land in Zone D-16, there are extensive tracts of public lands with excellent access. Primary roadways in Zone D-16 include Interstates 8 and 15, and Highways 76, 78 and 79.
Zone D-16 contains a mixture of both public and private lands. Remember you must obtain and have in your possession written permission to hunt on private property. Hunter trespass laws are strictly enforced. Public lands within Zone D-16 are primarily administered by the Cleveland National Forest (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management.
Wilderness lands have been established within the Cleveland National Forest. The Agua Tibia, Pine Creek and Hauser Wilderness Areas are accessible by hiking and pack stock. Public use of the wilderness is regulated by permit. restrictions and Wilderness Permits may be obtained by contacting the Cleveland National Forest.
You need a parking permit to park! The Federal Government, through the USFS, requires a Forest Adventure Pass and Wilderness Pass in possession if you intend to park your vehicle and use the USFS public lands for any purpose.
The vegetation is highly varied throughout Zone D-16 ranging from oak-woodland, mixed chaparral, juniper-pinyon, hardwood, hardwood-conifer and dense conifer to desert habitats.
There are numerous designated campgrounds within Zone D-16. The facilities available at these campgrounds vary from primitive campsites to campsites with running water and showers. Camping outside of designated campgrounds may be permitted on USFS lands.
Roughly 4,478 square miles
49% public land
Elevations range from 0 – 6,500 feet