Formerly the private Baca Ranch owned by a family from Texas, Valles Caldera National Preserve comprises Unit 6B and is one of the best public areas for hunting mature bull elk. Since it is a Preserve permits were formerly drawn through a different lottery process, but as of 2017 and continuing into future years, all permits will be allocated through the State draw. Hunters may apply for permits through the regular state permit lottery.

Only elk and Merriam turkeys are hunted on the preserve, with 2,500-3,000 elk living in this area. No deer or bear hunting is allowed here. Hunters can apply once for each hunt code.