Target Shooting and Hunting

---

The shooting or discharging of firearms is generally permitted on any BLM managed lands, as long as such activity is permitted by State and local laws. All federal, state, and county regulations to shooting apply to public lands. Prior to your trip, check with the El Centro Field Office for current conditions, regulations, and other information.

When shooting, select a safe location. A spot with a large mound directly behind the target is ideal. Avoid popular recreation areas and sensitive wildlife habitats. Do not attach targets to living plants or place targets up against rocks, plants, or solid objects. Glass bottles, appliances, and other refuse should not be used as targets. Always pick up and remove targets, empty shells, and any other debris after you have finished.

Shooting is prohibited within one mile of all campgrounds and developed recreation sites. Shooting should only take place in areas well away from other concentrations of people and property.

Due to high fire danger, wildlife management, safety concerns, and litter problems, several areas in the El Centro Resource Area are closed to target shooting. These areas include: the La Posta area south of I-8, McCain Valley, Valley of the Moon in the Jacumba Wilderness and a portion of Table Mountain.

Where to shoot
The Imperial Valley Rifle and Pistol Club maintains a shooting range near the Superstition Mountains. Located near the corner of Huff and Wheeler Road, the range is an excellent place to target shoot.

Hunting
Hunting is permitted on public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).  State of California hunting regulations must be followed on Federal lands.

Hunting and the collection of reptiles and amphibians in the desert is regulated by the California Department of Fish and Game. You must have a valid hunting license to hunt any game or wildlife. A valid fishing license is required to collect reptiles or amphibians. Be familiar with game species that you are not permitted to shoot or collect (birds of prey, non game birds, and fully protected reptiles and amphibians, etc.)

Private lands are located adjacent to many public lands. Before you start hunting, ask private landowners for permission. Leave any gates as you found them. Treat private lands as if they were your own.

CA Department of Fish and Game Information

• Hunting in California
• Map of Upland Game Fields in Imperial County
• Map of San Felipe Valley Wildlife Area
• Map of Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area