Minnesota’s Camp Ripley hosts disabled vets turkey hunt

Little Falls, Minn. — Each spring, the Minnesota National Wild Turkey Federation state chapter joins forces with the Minnesota Veterans Outdoors Program to host a special turkey hunt at Camp Ripley in Little Falls. Held in late April, this event offers disabled vets the chance to experience the healing and life-changing power of the outdoors through turkey hunting.

The tradition began two decades ago, with the state NWTF chapter and the MVOP launching the hunt to provide disabled veterans with safe, meaningful opportunities to reconnect with the outdoors. The NWTF state chapter Super Fund contributes $4,500 annually to support the hunt.

MORE COVERAGE FROM MINNESOTA OUTDOOR NEWS:

Lakeville South trap shooter perfect (twice) on big stage at Minnesota state tournament

How to level up your trail camera game this summer to maximize your deer scouting efforts

Summertime dog training means practicing marks; here’s how to do it

This year’s hunt took place April 29 through May 1, with 35 veterans participating. Set on Camp Ripley’s expansive 53,000-acre military training facility, the event led to the successful harvest of 20 wild turkeys over three days.

“The success of this event hinges on the dedication of its volunteers,” said Ralph Warzecha, NWTF Minnesota chapter president. “Thanks to their commitment, the program is able to accommodate 35 hunters each year. Looking ahead, organizers plan to recruit 15 additional volunteers, with the goal of expanding the event to serve 50 veterans. For many participants, this hunt represents their best opportunity to return to the field – an experience that’s very therapeutic for them.”

Volunteer mentors are the backbone of the hunt, assisting participants with gear setup, ensuring safety, and helping process harvested game. All game is registered and cleaned on-site, and veterans are provided with lodging and meals throughout the event.

Beyond the hunt itself, the event has a lasting impact. For many veterans, it reignites a passion for nature they thought was lost. It also fosters a strong sense of community, as participants bond over shared experiences and a mutual appreciation for the outdoors.

Since the program’s inception, more than 3,800 veterans have taken part in its hunts.

In addition to the spring turkey hunt, the Minnesota NWTF chapter and MVOP also host a disabled veterans deer hunt each October.

Disabled veterans residing in Minnesota who are interested in participating in either the spring turkey hunt or the fall deer hunt may apply online through the Minnesota Veterans Outdoors Program website.