Special Hunter Education Camp at the NRA Whittington Center near Raton

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is offering a special hunter education camp where youth can receive hands-on training and earn their hunter education certification for free.

The camp is open to youth ages 10 and over who are accompanied by a participating adult. It will be conducted the weekend of August 16-18, at the world renowned NRA Whittington Center near Raton. Lodging is provided along with meals* starting with Friday dinner through Sunday lunch. Campers are responsible for breakfasts. Registration for this camp opportunity opens July 15. Participants must complete and return the registration form by July 22 at noon to be eligible. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Participants will learn safe and responsible firearms handling, ethical hunting behaviors, conservation, wildlife identification and basic survival skills. Participants will test their marksmanship skills with .22 rifles, shotgun, muzzleloading and archery equipment on a range under the supervision of certified hunter education instructors and department staff. All equipment will be provided.

To qualify for the camp, participants must have a Customer Identification Number account with the department and complete the required homework before attending. For more information please contact the Department’s Hunter Education Office at 505-222-4731 or click here for the registration packet.