During open program time, Scouts can head to the archery range to practice their skills in a relaxed, drop-in setting. Whether they’re working on improving their aim, trying archery for the first time, or just enjoying a quiet moment of focus, open shoot allows Scouts to enjoy the range at their own pace. Friendly guidance is always available from the staff, making it a great opportunity to build confidence, fine-tune form, or simply have fun hitting targets alongside friends. No merit badge enrollment is required—just show up and shoot!
Range and Target Activities
Welcome to the Range and Target Activities Area
The Range and Target Activities Area is a highlight of Camp Sequassen, offering Scouts a chance to develop focus, patience, and precision while learning exciting lifelong skills. With fully equipped ranges and a trained staff, the program includes archery, rifle shooting, and shotgun shooting—three distinct disciplines that challenge Scouts in different ways while emphasizing the core value of safety.
Archery Range
At the archery range, Scouts dive into one of Scouting’s oldest and most accessible target sports. Using recurve bows and a range set up with multiple distances, Scouts learn proper shooting form—from stance and grip to drawing, aiming, and releasing. Staff instructors work closely with participants to develop consistency and improve grouping.
Alongside hands-on practice, Scouts pursuing the Archery merit badge also work on building an arrow and learn about safe shooting of a bow. The archery range is a favorite for first-time shooters and experienced archers alike, offering a relaxed but focused environment where Scouts can build confidence shot by shot.
Rifle and Shotgun Shooting
The Rifle Shooting program introduces Scouts to .22 caliber bolt-action rifles on a controlled and well-supervised range. Scouts are taught the fundamentals of firearm safety, sight alignment, trigger control, and breath regulation—skills essential to becoming a precise and responsible shooter. Completing the Rifle Shooting merit badge requires consistent performance and a demonstrated ability to group shots within a specified target zone.
For older Scouts seeking a more dynamic challenge, Shotgun Shooting offers the thrill of hitting moving clay targets with a 20-gauge shotgun. This badge demands strength, quick reflexes, and excellent hand-eye coordination. Participants receive individual instruction and coaching, and because of the physical and safety considerations, shotgun sessions are kept small to ensure close supervision and support.
Both rifle and shotgun programs are staffed by certified instructors and Range Safety Officers who guide Scouts toward success while reinforcing maturity, responsibility, and focus.
Safety First
Safety is the cornerstone of the shooting sports program at Camp Sequassen. Every range operates under strict BSA protocols, including safety briefings, required PPE (personal protective equipment), clearly marked firing lines, and the buddy system.
Scouts are taught the rules of firearm and range safety, including muzzle awareness, trigger discipline, and proper communication. Eye and ear protection is always provided and worn at all ranges, and staff conduct daily equipment checks and maintain clear control of all ammunition.
Only qualified adults and approved youth staff operate the ranges, and no live firearms are ever present outside the designated range areas. These layers of structure ensure that Scouts enjoy the program with maximum confidence and minimal risk.
Friendly Competition
In addition to structured merit badge instruction, the Range and Target Activities Area hosts exciting competitions throughout the week that bring Scouts together in friendly rivalry.
Two of the most anticipated events are the Archery Tournament and the Rifle Marksmanship Tournament, where Scouts compete individually to test their accuracy and consistency under pressure. Participants shoot a series of scored rounds, aiming for top placements and bragging rights among their troopmates.
Merit Badges
*Eagle Required
Not all merit badges may be offered and merit badge offerings are subject to change. See the Leader’s Guide for the most up to date information.
Check out our other program areas!
