The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is celebrating National Shooting Sports Month during August with free and discounted shooting opportunities at two of its public ranges. The promotions will take place at the Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Shooting Range in Mayflower and the Rick Evans Grandview Prairie Nature Center Shotgun Range in Columbus.
The annual observance highlights the vital role recreational shooting plays in supporting wildlife conservation. Firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment manufacturers pay federal excise taxes under the Federal Wildlife Restoration Program, which helps fund conservation and hunter education initiatives. According to AGFC, Arkansas received nearly $14 million from the program in Fiscal Year 2026, contributing to habitat conservation and educational programs. Combined with the Federal Sport Fish Restoration Program, this funding accounts for nearly one-third of the agency’s annual budget.
Throughout August, AGFC is offering several promotions. Youth ages 6 to 17 and adults 65 and older can use the rifle and pistol ranges in Mayflower free of charge. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Individuals who purchased a new rifle or pistol within the last 60 days are also eligible for a free day at the same ranges by presenting a purchase receipt. Additionally, hunters and anglers who have renewed their Arkansas hunting or fishing license since July 1 can enjoy a free day on the range.
Trap and skeet shooting will be offered at a discounted rate of $2 per round at both ranges during the month. "We’d honestly give those rounds for free, but we need to be able to pay for the cost of the targets," said Mayflower Range Manager Bill Haynes. "I’d challenge anyone going dove hunting to come visit and spend a few bucks on a round of skeet before they hit the field this year."
Special events are also scheduled at the Mayflower range. Family Week will run from August 5–9, featuring free rifle and pistol shooting for all visitors. On August 8 and 9, free hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be provided starting at 10 a.m. The range will also host Ladies Weekend on August 22–23, during which women can shoot at any station for free, including the shotgun ranges. "We plan to have some instructors on the range as well to help people learn to shoot," Haynes added. "They’ll also be available for our Family Week August 5–9."
For more information about the events, visit the AGFC website or contact the respective shooting ranges.