7 Essential Facts About The Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range You Must Know Before Visiting
Contents
Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range: Location, Facilities, and Access Requirements
The Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range is a publicly managed facility that provides a safe and structured environment for various shooting disciplines. It is strategically located near Hawkinsville, Georgia, making it a convenient destination for residents across the region.Range Facilities: What Can You Shoot?
The Ocmulgee WMA facility is designed to accommodate multiple types of firearms and shooting distances, catering to both casual plinkers and serious rifle shooters. * Rifle and Pistol Ranges: The primary facility includes two distinct ranges: a 100-yard range and a 50-yard range. The 100-yard range is ideal for sighting in hunting rifles or practicing long-distance precision shooting, while the 50-yard range is perfect for pistol shooting, smaller caliber rifles, or shotgun patterning. * Firearm Types: The range is open to Rifle Shooting, Pistol Shooting, and Shotgun Shooting. * Archery Range: In addition to the firearms range, the Ocmulgee WMA also features a dedicated Archery Range, offering a separate space for bow and arrow practice, further establishing the area as a comprehensive outdoor sports destination. * Maintenance: Visitors consistently rate the range as a well-maintained and family-friendly destination, a testament to the Georgia WRD’s commitment to quality public facilities.Crucial Access and License Requirements (The Fee Explained)
Unlike private gun ranges, access to the Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range is regulated by the state of Georgia's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and requires a specific license for users aged 16 to 64. This licensing requirement funds the maintenance and operation of all state-managed Wildlife Management Areas. * The Required License: Visitors in the 16–64 age bracket must possess a valid Georgia Hunting License, a Georgia Fishing License, or a Georgia Outdoor Recreational Pass (GORP). * WMA License: A WMA License is also a qualifying pass, often bundled with hunting licenses. Essentially, any official Georgia hunting or fishing license package allows access to state-owned WMA shooting ranges. * Exemptions: Individuals under 16 or over 64 are typically exempt from the licensing requirement, though specific rules should always be verified on the official Georgia Wildlife website. * How to Purchase: Licenses can be easily purchased online through the official Georgia DNR portal, ensuring you have the proper credentials before arrival.Current Operating Hours and Critical Safety Rules
To ensure a safe and efficient visit, it is vital to know the current schedule and the non-negotiable safety regulations enforced at the Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range.Official Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range Hours
The range operates on a consistent weekly schedule, though it is always advisable to check the official Georgia Wildlife Resources Division website for any unexpected closures or seasonal changes. * Tuesday – Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM * Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM * Sunday: 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM * Monday: Closed Note that some sources indicate a 10:00 AM start time, but the 9:00 AM schedule is more commonly cited for weekdays and Saturdays. Plan to arrive well before closing time, as range officers typically begin the closing procedures to ensure everyone is off the property on time.Mandatory Safety Briefing and Ammunition Restrictions
Safety is the paramount concern at all Georgia WMA ranges, and the Ocmulgee facility is no exception. Visitors must adhere to strict protocols to maintain a secure environment for everyone present. * Safety Video/Briefing: The range emphasizes safety and requires all visitors to watch a safety video or receive a briefing before using the firing line. This ensures every shooter understands the range commands and emergency procedures. * Ammunition Prohibition: A critical rule to remember is the prohibition of specific ammunition types. Green Tip ammo (often M855 or similar steel-core penetrator rounds) and armor-piercing ammunition are strictly not allowed on the range. These restrictions are in place to prevent damage to the range's backstops and target systems. * Range Officer Authority: Always follow the instructions of the designated Range Officer. Their word is final regarding safety, cease-fires, and target placement. * Personal Safety Gear: Eye protection and hearing protection (Ear Plugs or Earmuffs) are mandatory for all shooters and spectators while on the firing line.Maximizing Your Experience at Ocmulgee WMA
The Ocmulgee WMA is more than just a shooting range; it is a sprawling natural area offering multiple outdoor activities, which adds significant topical authority to the location.Beyond the Firing Line: Other WMA Activities
The 15,000-acre Ocmulgee WMA provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, making it an excellent destination for a full day trip. * Hunting: The area is a prime location for hunting opportunities, including deer, turkey, small game, alligator, and feral hogs, all subject to state regulations and seasons. * Wildlife Viewing: The WMA is a popular spot for bird watching, wildlife viewing, and general nature exploration. * Water Activities: The property also offers river access, benefiting boaters and anglers. * Hiking and Trails: Several trails are available for hiking and exploring the diverse habitats of the Ocmulgee River basin. By understanding the license requirements (GORP or WMA license), the operating hours (closed Mondays), and the critical safety rules (no Green Tip ammunition), you can ensure your visit to the Ocmulgee WMA Shooting Range is a safe, enjoyable, and productive experience. This well-managed public facility is a cornerstone of Central Georgia's shooting community, providing essential resources for responsible firearm ownership and training.
Detail Author:
- Name : Ms. Madeline Upton
- Username : herminio.champlin
- Email : raymond.murazik@hotmail.com
- Birthdate : 1998-04-10
- Address : 774 Schumm Meadow Vincestad, SC 06725-2044
- Phone : (262) 890-8097
- Company : Shanahan, Jaskolski and Tillman
- Job : Executive Secretary
- Bio : Consequatur magnam aut ex voluptatem et ea. Impedit sit modi ducimus aspernatur. Porro ut autem quia aut natus minima.
Socials
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/jermain5273
- username : jermain5273
- bio : Accusantium velit tempora similique nulla. Rerum eius quis illo illo.
- followers : 4504
- following : 189
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/jermain_real
- username : jermain_real
- bio : Ipsum voluptatem id ut tempora. Distinctio consectetur voluptas tempora. Voluptatem quod eos autem. Veniam corporis sed quidem quo voluptates corrupti.
- followers : 3091
- following : 67
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/upton2011
- username : upton2011
- bio : Incidunt voluptas corrupti minus earum quasi.
- followers : 4428
- following : 81
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/jermain_upton
- username : jermain_upton
- bio : Praesentium laudantium blanditiis ut est est ut. Ut est sit quia. Ea illo itaque repellendus.
- followers : 444
- following : 619
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@jupton
- username : jupton
- bio : Officiis voluptate incidunt optio et ut non. In et qui et aut iusto quo vero.
- followers : 663
- following : 1898
