Make the most of your summer! Check out our events!

Upcoming Events – July & August 2026

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife has a full lineup of free outdoor events this summer, from hunter education camps to archery shoots and wildlife workshops. Whether you’re new to hunting or looking to sharpen your skills, there’s something for the whole family.

Hunter Education Skills Camps

July 17–19 • Navajo Lake State Park
Already completed the online hunter education course? This hands-on camp helps youth build confidence with firearm safety, survival skills, shotgun shooting, fishing, archery, .22 rifles, and conservation officer demonstrations. Lodging and meals are provided.

Register for the July 17–19 Hunter Education Camp

July 31–Aug. 2 • Rio Mora Wildlife Refuge
Need your hunter education certification? This free camp combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in firearm safety, survival, and archery. Participants should complete the homework in the Today’s Hunter manual before arrival. Camping gear is required, and meals are provided.

Register for the July 31–Aug. 2 Hunter Education Camp

3D Archery Shoot

July 25 • Magdalena
Archers of all ages are invited to test their skills on a 3D course at Monica Cabin. Loaner equipment will be available, and youth prizes have been donated by Hit or Miss Archery and The Archery Shoppe.

Register for the 3D Archery Shoot

Beginning Adult Waterfowl Workshop

Aug. 30 • Albuquerque
Learn the basics of waterfowl hunting, including identification, regulations, gear, retrievers, calling techniques, and hunting strategies. Registration opens Aug. 10.

Workshop Information & Registration

Be Bear Aware

Bear activity is increasing across New Mexico. Secure garbage, pet food, bird seed, grills, and other attractants while camping or at home. Never feed or approach bears. If you encounter one, remain calm, make yourself appear large, speak firmly, and slowly back away.

Fish Art Contest Winners

Young winners of the New Mexico Fish Art Contest recently enjoyed a day at Lisboa Springs State Fish Hatchery and Monastery Lake, where they learned about trout conservation, aquatic insects, casting, and fishing before spending the afternoon on the water. Congratulations to all of this year’s talented artists!

More Upcoming Events

• July 15 – Military/Veteran Hunt Application Deadline
• July 15 – Pheasant & Sandhill Crane Draw Opens
• July 17–19 – Advanced Hunter Education Camp
• July 18 – STEM Day at Valles Caldera
• July 25 – 3D Archery Shoot
• July 31–Aug. 2 – Hunter Education Camp at Rio Mora
• Aug. 1–2 – Hunter Education in Santa Fe
• Aug. 12 – Pheasant & Sandhill Crane Draw Deadline
• Aug. 19 – Draw Results Posted
• Aug. 21 – State Game Commission Meeting
• Aug. 30 – Adult Waterfowl Hunting Workshop

For registration, event details, and the complete calendar, visit https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/calendar/.