New Mexico Department of Wildlife Spring Events

Join the New Mexico Department of Wildlife for a family-friendly day of outdoor fun, wildlife experiences, and community celebration as two major milestones are recognized: the completion of a decade-long renovation of the Glenwood State Fish Hatchery and the opening of the new Glenwood Allred Wildlife Management Area, a destination for birding, hiking, and river access. [oai_citation:0‡Grant County Beat](https://www.grantcountybeat.com/nm-news/non-local-news-releases/nm-department-of-wildlife-april-2026-newsletter?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

GilaFest Event Schedule

8 a.m. — Birding Hike: Explore the rich birdlife with experienced guides.

9:15 a.m. — Gila Trout Stocking: Help transport and release Gila trout at Whitewater Creek.

10 a.m.–2 p.m. — Community Park Activities: Enjoy hands-on outdoor experiences for all ages, including archery, bowfishing simulation, OHV safety courses, wildlife identification, and demonstrations.

1, 2, and 3 p.m. — Fish Hatchery Tours: Learn about the newly renovated facility and its role in conservation.

2 p.m. — Community Clean-Up: Help keep the Glenwood area clean and litter-free.

Event Locations

• Glenwood-Allred Wildlife Management Area
• Glenwood Community Park
• Whitewater Creek at the Catwalk Recreation Area
• Glenwood State Fish Hatchery

If you are interested in partnering through demonstrations, activity booths, or educational materials, or would like more details, the Department welcomes the opportunity to connect.

We look forward to celebrating New Mexico’s wildlife and heritage with you at GilaFest.

Beginner Shotgun Class

A free Beginner Shotgun Class will take place April 18 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Chaparral Skeet Club in Roswell.

Open to participants age 12 and older, this class covers shotgun basics, operation, and includes live shooting at clays in the afternoon. It’s designed for beginners or anyone looking to sharpen their skills with guidance from certified instructors.

Turkey Hunt Camp

A weekend-long turkey hunt camp will be held April 24–26 at Navajo Lake State Park for adults 18 and older who are new to hunting.

Participants will learn regulations, turkey calling, safety, shotgun patterning, identification, hunting techniques, and field dressing. Meals are provided, and attendees will camp on-site for two nights.

Mandatory orientation: April 20 at 6 p.m.

Bowhunter Skills Camp

A free Bowhunter Skills Camp will be held May 2 at Manzano Mountains State Park from 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Participants will learn archery safety, equipment selection, shot placement, and outdoor preparedness. Equipment is provided, though participants may bring their own. Camping is available by reservation.

Advanced Hunter Education Skills Camp

Youth ages 10–17 can attend a free Advanced Hunter Education Skills Camp May 15–17 at Caballo Lake State Park.

The camp includes firearm safety, ethical hunting, conservation, wildlife identification, survival skills, and hands-on instruction from conservation officers. Meals and equipment are provided, and participants will tent-camp on-site.

Youth Hunter Education Challenge

The 2026 Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) will take place June 5–7 at the NRA Whittington Center near Raton.

This event gives youth hunters the opportunity to demonstrate shooting skills, safety knowledge, and outdoor experience in a competitive environment while connecting with others who share the same interests.

Upcoming Events

• April 11: ATV safety class in Los Lunas
• April 18–19: Hunter Education in Grants
• April 18: Beginner Shotgun Class in Roswell
• April 19: Beginner Warmwater Fishing Workshop in Albuquerque
• April 24: Turkey Hunt Camp at Navajo Lake State Park
• April 26: Beginner Warmwater Fishing Workshop in Las Cruces
• April 28: Public Land User Committee meeting in Las Vegas
• May 2: Bowhunter Skills Camp in Mountainair
• May 9: GilaFest in Glenwood
• May 15–17: Advanced Hunter Education Skills Camp at Caballo Lake
• May 28: State Game Commission meeting in Socorro

Click here for more information