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ranges/public-land

Wilderness Unlimited

Hayward
330.5 miles from Los Angeles

Wilderness Unlimited started in 1987 with three ranches and no members. Today, the operation manages over 50 private properties spanning 100,000+ acres across California and Oregon—making it the West's largest provider of private big game, waterfowl, upland bird, and fishing access. The core princip...

Public Land
Hayward

Wilderness Unlimited

Hayward

Hayward, CA·8 amenities·See details for full schedule
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01 // OVERVIEW

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Overview

Location details and information

Wilderness Unlimited started in 1987 with three ranches and no members. Today, the operation manages over 50 private properties spanning 100,000+ acres across California and Oregon—making it the West's largest provider of private big game, waterfowl, upland bird, and fishing access.

The core principle: "Conservation Through Proper Utilization." Founded on the recognition that quality hunting and fishing no longer exists on shrinking public lands, WU solved the problem by partnering with private landowners who wanted their properties managed for sustainable wildlife recreation.

Hunt TypeDetails
DeerCoastal blacktail and other species on multiple properties
Wild Pig87.5% of reported CA pig tags come from private land (WU ranches included)
WaterfowlDuck and goose blinds in Sacramento River Valley and beyond, decoys provided
Upland BirdsQuail, pheasant, and other upland game on managed properties
TurkeyRio Grande and other turkey opportunities
FishingTrout, steelhead, bass, and catfish on private lakes and streams
SpecialtyElk hunting in California—uncommon access through WU

Archery hunting is fully supported with archery-only ranches and extended archery seasons beyond state regulations.

California Memberships: - Access to dozens of properties throughout California - Membership tiers: Bird, Big Game, Fishing Only, or combination packages - Annual dues: $1,045–$2,245 plus one-time enrollment fee - Payment plans available (including automatic payments)

Oregon Memberships: - Access to 20,000+ acres throughout Oregon - Tailored membership options - Annual dues: $540–$1,140 plus one-time enrollment fee

Family memberships include spouses and dependent children

Application Process: Interview with current member → Submit application → 10-day review period → Approval and welcome kit. Not everyone is accepted—WU screens for responsible, safety-conscious hunters and anglers.

  • Reservation Control: Every property requires a reservation. WU's Lands Department sets maximum hunter counts per ranch and enforces harvest limits stricter than state regulations. This keeps crowds off and preserves hunting quality for the long term.
  • Patrolled Properties: Onsite patrols verify member credentials and ensure check-in/out compliance. Members consistently mention feeling safe and knowing other hunters on the property have been vetted.
  • Amenities Included: Many properties come pre-equipped with:
  • Hunting blinds and pit setups
  • Decoys for waterfowl
  • RV-accessible parking (where available)
  • Camping areas
  • Educational Programs: WU offers hands-on training, mentoring, and seminars for members at all experience levels. Experienced hunters can expand into new disciplines. Beginners get real instruction.
  • Long-term Landowner Relationships: Many landowners have partnered with WU for 30+ years. Habitat work and agricultural consulting ensure properties stay productive.
  • Aaron H (New member, camping/fishing focus): "I expected high-pressure sales. Instead, Mike was straightforward. Manny explained options without upselling and honestly told me which properties fit my camping needs. Very honest approach."
  • Mark H (Hunting since 2020): "Way better than public land. Got hog tags in Mendocino and duck hunting around Colusa. Reservations easy to get. Staff suggests alternatives when blinds are booked. Great value compared to guided hunts."
  • James P: "Had a billing issue with my credit card. Manny called me back at 8 PM to fix it. Five-star service."
  • David A: "Been a member for years. Properties stay quality. Guests are always blown away when I bring them."
  • Gordon B (3-year member, detailed harvest): "In 3 years: 2 Coastal Blacktail bucks, 2 Rio Grande turkeys, 17 quail, 2 jack rabbits, 1 coyote, 2 trophy catfish. Never thought I'd have that success."
  • Mario A (Founding member family): "My grandpa started with WU in March 1987. My dad was a member for decades. It became family. WU wasn't just a club—it was a second family."
  • Allowed vehicles: Highway-legal registered vehicles only. RVs and trailers permitted where accessible.
  • Not allowed: ATVs, UTVs, 2 or 3-wheeled motorbikes.
  • Membership requirements: Anyone can apply, but approval isn't guaranteed. The interview process filters for members who understand safety protocols, respect the land, and value conservation over just "filling the freezer."
ServiceHoursContact
OfficeMon–Fri, 10 AM–6 PM (closed 2–2:30 PM lunch)877-611-4868 / 510-785-4868
ReservationsMon–Fri, 11 AM–6 PM / Sat 9:30 AM–12:30 PM (duck season)877-611-4868
Email[email protected]
Address22425 Meekland Ave, Cherryland, CA 94541

All times are Pacific. Always confirm current season dates with CDFW or ODFW before planning trips.

Fire Restrictions Active

Check current conditions before visiting. Smoking and open flames may be prohibited.

Safety Information

  • Check current conditions before visiting
  • Follow all posted safety guidelines
  • Respect other shooters and maintain safe distances

Restrictions

  • Members only - selective membership required
  • Membership interview and approval process
  • Reservations required for property access
  • Compliance with Idaho Department of Fish and Game regulations
  • Proof of hunting/fishing licenses required
  • Safe handling and firearm safety protocols mandatory
Pro Tips for Visiting
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Access to dozens of properties throughout California
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Membership tiers: Bird, Big Game, Fishing Only, or combination packages
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Annual dues: $1,045–$2,245 plus one-time enrollment fee
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Payment plans available (including automatic payments)
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Access to 20,000+ acres throughout Oregon
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Tailored membership options

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