Oregon Elk Hunting Units & Draw Odds
67 units · 39.5% avg hunter success
Oregon's elk draw uses a preference-point system where nonresidents compete for 5% of available tags. The 2026 application window closes May 15, with results announced June 12. You'll pay an $8 application fee plus a $588 tag fee if you draw. We've analyzed 67 units across Oregon to show you draw competitiveness and harvest success for each. Some zero-point hunts remain available most years—meaning you can draw without preference points banked—while others fill quickly. The data below breaks down your real chances by unit, harvest rates, and what to expect on the ground. Whether you're chasing a high-success unit or willing to gamble on a tougher tag, Oregon's elk draws reward patience and smart unit selection.
How the Oregon Draw Works
Draw system
Hybrid draw — part preference order, part random allocation.
Nonresident allocation: 5% of tags
2026 application window
— – May 15(nonresident)
Results: Jun 12
2026 fees (nonresident, regular)
$8 app · $193 license · $588 tag
Easiest Elk Draws for Nonresidents (2024 Results)
Point levels that drew with certainty, and the best documented zero-point hunts — actual draw results, per hunt.
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 218R
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 265A1
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 253A
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 258R
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 227X
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 250R1
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 222T
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 228A
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 235M
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 245A1
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 238A
0.0% at zero points · Hunt 248A1
| Unit | Drew with certainty at | Best zero-point hunt | Success | Public land |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unit ALSEA | — | 0.0%Hunt 218R | 66% | 48% |
| Unit BEULAH | — | 0.0%Hunt 265A1 | 13% | 60% |
| Unit CATHERINE CREEK | — | 0.0%Hunt 253A | 12% | 25% |
| Unit CHESNIMNUS | — | 0.0%Hunt 258R | 20% | 52% |
| Unit CHETCO | — | 0.0%Hunt 227X | 40% | 84% |
| Unit DESOLATION | — | 0.0%Hunt 250R1 | 85% | 89% |
| Unit DIXON | — | 0.0%Hunt 222T | 61% | 78% |
| Unit EVANS CREEK | — | 0.0%Hunt 228A | 50% | 47% |
| Unit FORT ROCK | — | 0.0%Hunt 235M | 20% | 69% |
| Unit FOSSIL | — | 0.0%Hunt 245A1 | 44% | 16% |
| Unit GRIZZLY | — | 0.0%Hunt 238A | 23% | 29% |
| Unit HEPPNER | — | 0.0%Hunt 248A1 | 28% | 35% |
All Oregon Elk Units
Oregon Elk Draw FAQ
What do I need to apply for an Oregon elk draw as a nonresident?
You'll need to submit your application by May 15 for the 2026 draw season. The application fee is $8, and if you draw a tag, the tag fee is $588. Oregon's preference-point system means you can hunt with zero points—you don't need to build a points balance before applying.
When will I know if I drew an Oregon elk tag?
Oregon announces draw results on June 12 for the 2026 regular draw. That gives you the summer to prepare for fall hunts.
Can I draw an Oregon elk hunt with zero preference points?
Yes. Data from 67 units shows that zero-point hunts are available across Oregon. In 2024, units like Alsea, Beulah, Catherine Creek, Chesnimnus, and Chetco all had zero-point hunts that drew, meaning nonresidents without banked points had real chances. Competitiveness varies by unit and season.
What harvest success rates should I expect in Oregon elk units?
Harvest success varies widely by unit. In 2024, some units saw success rates as high as 66%, while others ran as low as 12–13%. Your choice of unit has a major impact on realistic elk odds, so reviewing individual unit data before you apply is critical.
Plan your Oregon Elk hunt — free account, no card. Run the draw simulator at your point level, see 2022–2024 data, and save units to compare.
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