As parents, we are always looking for new ways to engage our children in the wonders of the world. We strive to peak their interest in a variety of fields and areas, in the hopes that at least some of them will stick.
If you are on the lookout for a new past time for your curious kiddos, Twin Cities Kids Club
has got one for you; archery! We have compiled of list of the best archery ranges in the Minneapolis area.
Take a look and get inspired. We know you will find at least one that will satisfy you and your kids’ needs.
But, I’ve never shot an arrow before-
Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people are intimidated by the prospect of those sharp, swift-moving arrows flying around, especially when their children are involved.
If you have an open mind and you take the proper precautions, you have no need to worry.
The most crucial first step, though, is to ask yourself if archery is something in which you are interested. If it helps, archery is a fun and rewarding past time that you and your family can enjoy together for years to come.
It is excellent for kids and adults of all ages. You can always grow your skillset and improve as you gain experience. Archery combines a love of the great outdoors with a healthy regard for camaraderie and competition.
Plus, you can practice archery year around. There is endless variety, as you can train indoors and out.
Once you are ready to begin, the first step is a visit to your local professional archery shop. The helpful staff you find there should be able to get you started down the right road. They can help you find the right bow at the right price for your needs.
Check out our five tips for teaching your kids archery for some helpful hints.
I’m ready to buy my bow-
The essential thing when finding your right bow is fit. First and foremost, the bow should feel good in your hands. If you are unsure how to hold the bow, don’t be afraid to admit it, there is no shame, ask for instruction on the proper technique.
Every bow is different. You should play around until you find the grip that feels best to you.
Second to the fit, the next most important feature of your new bow is draw length. The draw length is the distance you pull the bow back from its rest point. Your shop associate will need to fit your new bow to the proper draw length.
From here on, things get a bit more complicated. Once you start talking about sights, shooting fingers vs. release, or shooting compound bow vs. recurve, you’ve moved well past beginner. For now, the fit and draw length are enough for you to worry about.
As you advance in your practice, you will learn more and more, and your knowledge and experience will grow with you. Don’t be intimidated when you first start; take your time, and have fun learning.
Once you have purchased your or your child’s brand new bow, it’s time to start shooting.
Get the proper help-
Learning to shoot your bow will take some time. There are several ways to begin. You can always join an archery club or league.
We would recommend that you seek out an archery mentor, though. Ask the staff at the shop where you buy your bow. They should have many helpful recommendations.
A friendly word of warning- Once you begin, the lure of archery is strong. It is easy to become addicted once you hit that first bullseye. Expect to be hooked once you see how fun it is as a past time.
Get shooting-
Now that you have your bow and the desire to learn, it’s time to start shooting. Here are some of the local ranges where you can practice your draw.
Minneapolis Parks
Columbia Park
This park is non-reservable. Hay bales are provided but bring your own targets and equipment.
Ed Solomon Park
Hay bales are provided.
Bde Maka Ska Park
This is a non-reservable range. Hay bales are provided but bring your own targets and equipment.
Lake Harriet Park
This is a non-reservable range. Hay bales are provided but bring your own targets and equipment.
Theodore Wirth Park
This is a non-reservable range. Hay bales are provided but bring your own targets and equipment.
St Paul Parks
Pig’s Eye Regional Park
This range has six targets. Bring your own equipment.
North Metro Parks
Bunker Hills Regional Park
They have many varied types of ranges. Costs 3 dollars a person, bring your own equipment.
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park
This is a non-permanent range. They offer family archery programs and provide all equipment. The cost is 10 dollars per person with a discount for groups of 4 or more.
Elm Creek Park Reserve
This is a 30-acre range that requires a 6 dollar pass for entry.
East Metro Parks
Lake Elmo Park Reserve
This range is open all year and has seven targets. You must pay a 7 dollar vehicle permit fee.
Keller Regional Park
They have a 12 lane archery course that is free to the public. Bring your own equipment.
South Metro Parks
Belle Plaine Archery Park
This is a free archery range; just bring your own equipment.
Burnsville Archery Site
Open all year; this range has 11 targets. Bring your own equipment. Children under 12 need adult supervision.
Fireman’s Park
They offer archery lessons.
Ritter Farm Park
They offer youth archery lessons in the summer.
Rezac Nature Preserve
An archery course of eight targets, this one is free to use. Bring your own equipment.
Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park
They don’t have a permanent range but offer family archery programs. The 10 dollar fee includes equipment.
Cleary Lake Regional Park
Like Cedar Lake, they don’t have a permanent range but offer family archery programs. The 10 dollar fee includes equipment.
Hidden Valley Park
This range has two targets, bring your own equipment.
West Metro Parks
Staring Lake Park
They have multiple stations, and the park is free to use. Bring your own equipment.
Baker Park Reserve
They don’t have a permanent range but offer family archery programs. You can learn to shoot on 3-D targets. The 10 dollar fee includes equipment.
Carver Park Reserve
They are open year-round for 6 dollars per person. They offer a stationary and walk-through course. Plus, kids are free!
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