Youth Program | NRA Whittington Center
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The Youth Program at the NRA Whittington Center
Shaping Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Future
Adventure Camp at the NRA Whittington Center
Lifelong Bonds and Friendships
Adventure Camp at the NRA Whittington Center
Teamwork Makes It Happen
Adventure Camp at the NRA Whittington Center
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Adventure Camp at the NRA Whittington Center
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Youth Program
NRA Whittington Center Adventure Camp Youth Program
Our Adventure Camp is perhaps America’s best outdoor youth camp for boys and girls aged 13 to 17. The camp is offered in two consecutive, two-week sessions, beginning in mid-June and ending in mid-July. Under direct supervision of our staff and trained volunteers, our campers learn everything from shooting fundamentals to firearm safety, marksmanship, basic wilderness survival skills, and much, much more.
Talk about fun! Many of our former campers return as camp counselors!
Register for the 2026 and 2027 Adventure Camp Below. Spots are limited and fill up quickly!
Register for 2026 Adventure Camp!
Spots are now open for the 2026 Adventure Camp Youth Program. Reserve your spot today - they won't last long!
Register for 2027 Adventure Camp!
Spots are now open for the 2027 Adventure Camp Youth Program. Reserve your spot today - they won't last long!
Where Shooting & Outdoor Adventure Come Together
The NRA Whittington Adventure instructors will teach you the fundamentals of pistol, rifle, muzzleloading, and shotgun shooting skills with safety always foremost in mind. They'll introduce you to the fine art of competitive shooting, rifle and pistol silhouette, and bullseye disciplines plus skeet and trap shotgun savvy.
During your 2-week stay, you’ll fire over 1,200 rounds of ammunition!
Experience the Outdoors in the Shadow of the Rockies
Shooting is only part of the adventure. We’ll also teach you important hunting skills. You'll learn skills like wilderness map reading, how to prepare a hunting camp, animal tracking, how to use game calls, care of downed game, and an understanding of wildlife management techniques.
You’ll learn wilderness survival skills. You'll go on a simulated big game hunt with a few days and nights under the stars. You’ll also have the opportunity to become Hunter Safety qualified in New Mexico.
This is true outdoor learning experience, an adventure like no other in America, in a setting that will take your breath away.
Come to the Best of the Rocky Mountain West
The NRA Whittington Center is without a doubt the most complete shooting center in the nation.
The camp includes 33,000 acres of rugged western terrain, 10 miles southwest of Raton, all in the scenic high mesa country of New Mexico.
As you might have guessed, the beautiful landscape abounds with wildlife. You'll sleep in the Whittington Center's log cabin housing units and eat in the dining facility.
A Total Equipment Package Plus Expert Training
The NRA Whittington Adventure supplies all firearms and ammunition. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, and blackpowder guns will be provided at the camp.
You will be asked to bring your own shooting glasses and hearing protection, as well as your own personal outdoor items such as sleeping bags and hiking boots. But don't worry, the Whittington Center will provide a complete list of equipment and travel information needed for this unique outdoor experience.
Skilled People Ready to Make Your Stay Worthwhile
The NRA is proud of the staff assembled for the NRA Whittington Center Adventure Camp. All of the adult instructors possess tremendous outdoor and shooting skills. They were chosen because of a demonstrated ability to work with young people. A camp health officer will be on site (each camper will be asked to provide a current physical prior to the camp).
Staff and Volunteer Opportunities
We are accepting applications for various Adventure Camp Staff positions from highly qualified Camp Counselors and Adventure Specialists. Learn more about career opportunities at the NRA Whittington Center's job board.
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Events
The NRA Whittington Center hosts hundreds of private and public events every year. Take a look at our schedule and plan your visit today.
Ranges
Shooters can take part in competitive shooting, rifle and pistol silhouette, bullseye disciplines, and even black powder muzzle-loading rifles.
Lodging, Cabins & Camping
Come stay with us! The general public is welcome to stay at the Whittington Center. There is a broad range of housing to accommodate individuals, couples, and small to large groups.
Need Help Planning Your Visit
Call
800-494-4853
or email
[email protected]
Located near beautiful Raton, New Mexico, the NRA Whittington Center is home to the nation’s premier hunting, shooting, and outdoor recreation facility. The NRA Whittington Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies on the generous contributions of donors who want to preserve our heritage of freedom for the next generation of shooters and hunters.
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