Top 5 Hunting Destinations in the USA (Part 2): From The Plains to The Desert

In our previous guide, we covered the first five top-tier hunting states. But the United States is vast, and the opportunities for sportsmen are endless. Continuing our list, we explore five more destinations that should be on every hunter's bucket list.

Whether you are chasing the "Grey Ghost" in the desert or looking for a trophy whitetail in the Midwest, these states offer unique challenges and rewards.

1. South Dakota: The Pheasant Capital

South Dakota is world-famous for one thing: Ring-necked Pheasants. Every year, thousands of hunters flock to the fields here for the best upland bird hunting on the planet. But don't overlook big game; the state also offers solid opportunities for Mule Deer and Whitetail.

Quick Facts:

• Top Game: Pheasant, Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer.
• Public Land: Excellent access via the "Walk-In Area" program.
• Key Region: The eastern half of the state for birds; the Black Hills for deer.

Scouting Tip:

Pheasants and deer both thrive on the "edge" habitat—where crops meet tall grass. Before your trip, use satellite maps to identify these transition zones. If you are targeting deer, placing a trail camera on these field edges can help you understand movement times, which is crucial in these wide-open spaces.

2. Idaho: The Backcountry Wilderness

If you crave solitude and physical challenge, Idaho is your destination. With over 60% of the state being public land, it offers some of the most rugged backcountry hunting in the lower 48 states. It is a premier destination for Elk and Mule Deer hunters who are willing to hike miles away from the nearest road.

Quick Facts:

• Top Game: Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Mountain Lion.
• Terrain: Steep mountains, dense forests, and high deserts.
• Access: Massive amounts of National Forest and BLM land.

Scouting Tip:

In the vast wilderness, animals are spread thin. "E-scouting" with maps is essential before you arrive. Look for north-facing slopes (which hold more moisture and bedding cover). Because the terrain is difficult to access, setting up a camera in a remote wallow or saddle during the summer can save you days of hiking during the season.

3. Kansas: Land of the Giants

Kansas has a legendary reputation for producing massive Whitetail bucks. Unlike states that allow heavy pressure, Kansas limits its non-resident tags through a draw system, allowing bucks to reach maturity. It is a bowhunter's dream.

Quick Facts:

• Top Game: Trophy Whitetail Deer, Rio Grande Turkey.
• Tag System: Non-residents must apply for the draw (usually in April).
• Challenge: Limited public land; permission from private landowners is key.

Scouting Tip:

In the open plains of Kansas, trees are scarce. Deer are forced to travel along narrow "shelterbelts" (rows of trees) and river bottoms. These act as natural funnels. A camera placed in these pinch points will capture almost every buck moving through the area.

4. Arizona: The Desert Challenge

Arizona offers a completely unique experience. It is famous for massive Bull Elk and the elusive Coues Whitetail Deer (often called the "Grey Ghost"). Hunting here requires high-quality optics and patience to glass vast desert canyons.

Quick Facts:

• Top Game: Elk, Coues Deer, Desert Mule Deer.
• Strategy: Spot-and-stalk with high-powered binoculars.
• Key Factor: Water sources are magnets for wildlife.

Scouting Tip:

In the arid desert, water is life. If you can find an active water hole or a "guzzler" (man-made water catchment), you will find the game. This is the single most effective location to deploy a trail camera in Arizona to inventory the local population.

5. Nebraska: The Mixed-Bag Opportunity

Nebraska is often underrated, but for the traveling hunter, it is a gem. It offers excellent opportunities for both Merriam’s and Rio Grande Turkeys. Plus, many tags are available Over-the-Counter (OTC), making it a great backup plan if you didn't draw a tag in other states.

Quick Facts:

• Top Game: Turkey (Spring & Fall), Whitetail, Mule Deer.
• Accessibility: High availability of tags for non-residents.
• Season: Very long archery seasons for deer.

Essential Gear: Digital Scouting Tools

Traveling to a new state is an investment of time and money. To ensure you don't come home empty-handed, intelligence is your most valuable asset. Using reliable trail cameras allows you to be in two places at once—scouting one ridge while you hunt another.

What to Look for in a Travel-Ready Camera

For hunters covering new ground, especially on public land, your gear needs to meet specific criteria:

• Fast Trigger Speed (0.1s ~ 0.3s): When scouting trails or pinch points, animals are often on the move. A slow camera will only capture an empty frame or a blurry tail.
• No-Glow / 940nm Night Vision: In public hunting areas, a visible red flash can alert wary game—and worse, reveal your camera's location to other hunters. Invisible IR flash is critical for stealth.
• High Definition Clarity: When judging antler size from hundreds of miles away, pixelated images won't cut it. Look for cameras with high-quality sensors (like Sony Starvis) that deliver crisp details even in low light.

Whether you are scouting water holes in Arizona or shelterbelts in Kansas, deploying the right trail camera technology is the force multiplier you need for a successful out-of-state hunt.

Know Before You Go: Hunting regulations, season dates, and tag applications vary widely by state. Always verify the latest rules with the local Department of Fish and Game before planning your trip.