2025 Elk Camp Review

Re: Archery elk camp Sponsored by Centerforwarriors.org

I had seen flyers for this at the last few VFW state conventions and had blown it off, not thinking I would be able to get in. They host 3 separate weeks of camping and hunting.

Having enjoyed those activities for most of my life I decided to look into this. I was skeptical of how well I do since I had just had a total knee replacement 8 weeks prior. This camp is centered around reaching out to veterans and engaging them in activities helpful to addressing our issues. This organization provides 90% of your needs for the time you’re there. This camp is an alcohol and drug free time that is strictly enforced.

They have wall tents, cots w/pads, several RV parking spots, and a couple RVs loaned out to them for additional sleeping areas. They do their utmost to reach any accommodation you may need. They provide 2 meals a day prepared by campers and snacks and drinks. During the mid-day break from hunting they had various entities come in to address issues the Veterans such as an equine therapy group, different representatives from the VA, a class on elk calls, and an awesome history lesson. Evenings were spent around the campfire sharing stories (some they never shared before and planning the next day’s hunt.

I felt welcomed and supported by all the campers during the week I was out there, the comradery was awesome from Veterans from all branches of the military and civilian backgrounds. I hadn’t felt this level of comfort in a long time and although I never harvested an animal (you can hunt elk or deer) When I left, I felt much lighter mentally and stressfully. I can’t emphasize enough how that week had helped me. I am looking forward to going again this year. I highly recommend attending a week out there. You might even get lucky and add some meat to your freezer (they also have a processor for a very reasonable fee), but even if you don’t you will leave there refreshed and renewed.

Bill (William) Tucker