5 Crucial Updates You Need To Know About The Cowlitz Public Shooting Range (2026 Transition)

The Cowlitz Public Shooting Range, a vital facility for firearms enthusiasts and law enforcement in Southwest Washington, is undergoing a significant operational change. As of late 2025, the range, located in Castle Rock, is transitioning management from the long-time operator, Cowlitz Game and Anglers, directly to Cowlitz County itself, a move that will reshape its schedule, rules, and future development. This shift, which officially takes effect on January 1, 2026, is the most important update for all range users, signaling a new era of county-managed public access and safety oversight for the popular outdoor facility. This article provides the most current, up-to-date information on the management takeover, the temporary operational changes, and what shooters can expect from the newly managed Cowlitz County Gun Range in the coming year and beyond. The transition is aimed at ensuring the facility's long-term viability, addressing past financial concerns, and enhancing safety protocols under the direct supervision of the county's Parks and Sheriff's departments.

Cowlitz Public Shooting Range Profile & Management Transition Details

The Cowlitz Public Shooting Range, often referred to locally as the Cowlitz County Gun Range, has been a cornerstone of the local shooting community for decades. Its location near Castle Rock, Washington, makes it a convenient and essential resource for target practice, firearm training, and local law enforcement qualification.

Facility Overview

• Official Name: Cowlitz Public Shooting Range / Cowlitz County Gun Range
• Location: 1000 Toutle Park Road, Castle Rock, WA
• Primary Facilities: Rifle/Pistol Range, Archery
• Range Distances: Includes a pistol range section with a berm at approximately 15 yards and longer rifle lanes
• Accepts: Rifles, pistols, shotguns (slugs only on the rifle/pistol range), and archery equipment
• Open To: All members of the public

The 2026 Management Transition

The most critical and current piece of information is the change in management. The county-owned facility was previously operated by the non-profit organization Cowlitz Game and Anglers (CGA).

• Previous Operator: Cowlitz Game and Anglers (CGA)
• Contract Expiration Date: December 31, 2025
• New Operator: Cowlitz County
• Effective Date: January 1, 2026
• Oversight: The county's Parks department will manage the facility in partnership with the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office

This transition was prompted, in part, by recent financial reports indicating the range was operating "in the red." The county commissioners believe that direct county operation, leveraging the Sheriff's Office for security and training, will ensure the range's financial stability and operational excellence moving forward.

Immediate Operational Changes and Reduced Schedule

Following the official takeover, the new Cowlitz County management team will institute a temporary, reduced operating schedule. This is not a closure but a strategic move to allow staff to thoroughly assess the facility's current condition and implement necessary updates.

The Temporary Reduced Schedule

The initial weeks and months of 2026 will see the range operating on a limited schedule. This is crucial for new staff to conduct a full assessment of facility needs and to update safety protocols. * Purpose: To conduct a full assessment of the facility, update safety procedures, and address any maintenance backlogs. * What to Expect: Fewer public operating hours compared to the previous CGA schedule. * Recommendation: All prospective visitors are strongly advised to check the official Cowlitz County Parks and Recreation website for the *exact, up-to-the-minute* operating hours before traveling to the range. This temporary reduction ensures a smooth transition and a safer, more compliant facility for the long term. The county is committed to restoring full operational capacity once the assessment and necessary upgrades are complete.

Law Enforcement and Agency Use

The range is a critical training ground for local law enforcement agencies. The county's assumption of operations is expected to streamline and potentially increase the use of the facility by the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office and other regional agencies. * Dedicated Law Enforcement Hours: Historically, specific hours have been approved for law enforcement use, such as Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings. * Enhanced Partnership: The direct involvement of the Sheriff's Office in the management partnership underscores the facility's importance to public safety training in the region.

Key Rules, Safety Protocols, and Facility Offerings

While the facility is under new management, the fundamental rules of firearm safety and range etiquette remain paramount. The county's transition period will focus on *updating* and *reinforcing* these safety protocols to mitigate risks, especially in light of past disputes with neighbors regarding noise and safety.

Essential Range Rules for Public Shooters

All users of the public shooting range must adhere to strict safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone. * Entry Cutoff: Shooters are typically not allowed to enter the range less than one hour before the posted closing time. * Ammunition Restrictions: While the range is generally accommodating, only shotguns firing slugs are permitted on the main rifle/pistol range. Users should always check for specific restrictions on steel core, tracer, or armor-piercing ammunition. * Target Placement: The facility provides various target stands and berms. On the rifle side, it's often possible to drive to target stands to set up targets, offering flexibility for different shooting disciplines. * Range Commands: Always obey the instructions of the Range Safety Officers (RSOs) or any county staff present. When a "Ceasefire" is called, all firearms must be unloaded, benched, and the shooter must step behind the firing line.

Facilities for Different Shooting Disciplines

The versatility of the Cowlitz Public Shooting Range caters to a wide array of shooting enthusiasts, from novice shooters to experienced marksmen. * Rifle Range: The primary range accommodates rifle shooting at various distances, making it suitable for zeroing scopes and long-distance practice. * Pistol Range: A dedicated section, often the far left lanes, is specifically set up for pistol shooting, with closer berms and target stands ideal for handgun practice and qualification. * Shotgun Use: While the facility is shotgun friendly, use is often restricted to slugs on the rifle/pistol range. Dedicated trap or skeet ranges may be limited or require specific scheduling. * Archery Range: The range also provides facilities for archery, offering a space for bow hunters and target archers to practice their skills. The county's goal is to maintain and potentially expand these offerings, ensuring the facility remains a premier destination for all forms of responsible shooting sports in the region. As the transition unfolds in 2026, the community should look for official announcements from Cowlitz County regarding new membership options, updated fee structures, and the final, permanent operating schedule.

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