There are deer in the area off Johnson Creek road. It does get hit consistently from rifle season on, because it's so easy to get to.
I can't remember which one is the "blue gate" you are referring to. I've had my best luck over the years in the "south-east" part of where you're talking about (double-gate). Can go a long ways in there and i'ts not all overgrown like the areas to the north and west.
Good luck.