Quick Tips
- Bring your shotgun for pheasants, Sharptail Grouse, and possibly a Greater Prairie Chicken
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | 120"-140" | 160"+ |
| Whitetail Deer | 110"-140" | 150"+ |
On The Ground
This unique unit is actually split into three different sections of the Custer National Forest in the far northwest corner of the state. Comprised mostly of public land this is an excellent choice for hunters looking to plan a DIY style of hunt. Made up of large stretches of pine and conifer trees mixed with stretches of prairie throughout. There are no services located in the actual hunting area of this unit so hunters will need to be prepared for a more remote and primitive hunting experience. Buffalo, South Dakota is the most notable town in the region but will require some driving to and from the hunt area if you choose to make this town the home base. There are good populations of both species of deer in this unit. Hunters who are lucky enough to hunt this unit have had good success with lots of opportunity.
This unit is considered a target-rich environment for both mule deer and whitetail deer.
Terrain
There are three separate sections of dirt that make up this unit. The southernmost section’s most dominant terrain feature is Moreau Peak at 3,894 feet. There are large spreads of pine and different conifers in all directions. Overall this is a very broken patch of dirt, mixing prairie grass and conifer throughout. Further north there are two sections of National Forest, the North Cave, and South Cave Hills. These sections have no notable terrain feature outside of themselves. These higher-elevation areas are a perfect mix of dense timber and prairie. The prairie winds through the unit with cuts, ravines, and draws in all directions.
Roughly 113 square miles
99% public land
Elevations range from 3,050- 3,894 feet
Vegetation
There are many different patches of conifers spread across the sections of National Forest. As the trees give way you will find a mix of short and tall prairie grass throughout the unit as well as countless species of wildflowers. Outside of this terrain, there is also land that has been turned for agricultural purposes.
Access
East Short Pine Hills
Highway 897 is the main drag that runs north and south at the southern end of the unit. Heading east off of this road is Dillon Road. As you move past Leger Dam you will need to turn north on Dunn Road as you move north on this road you will run into road 3111 Box Springs taking this road to the east you will wind around until entering a piece of Trust land in the east and eventually the National Forest in the southernmost section of the unit.
South Cave Hills
Heading Northwest off Highway 85 north of Buffalo is Brown Johnson Road. This road will eventually turn 90 degrees to the west eventually running into the northern section of the South Cave Hills section of the National Forest. Peterson Canyon Road which is more of a two-track will head south off of this road and take you into the heart of this area.
North Cave Hills
Further north of Brown Johnson Road on Highway 85 is Welch Fire Trail heading west. At approximately 3 miles, you can take a slight right-hand turn onto Uranian Road. This road will take you into the heart of the North Cave Hills and allow access to all areas of this section of National Forest.
Camping and Lodging
There is one established campground, the Picnic Spring Campground, in the North Cave Hills towards the most northern portion of the unit. All other camping in this unit would be primitive camping. Be sure to check local regulations as well as the current conditions of the forest prior to arrival. Buffalo, South Dakota is the most notable township in this area of the state and is rather small. This small town of only 330 people has one locally owned hotel, and a gas station, but overall it is a very remote area of the state. Plan on bringing everything you need for your hunt with you.
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