Shooting Range Complex
ALERT: All three shooting ranges at Elk Neck State Forest — rifle, pistol, and shotgun- – will be closed to the public for maintenance on the following days: June 21, 22, 23, 24, 27 and July 11. This will allow staff to complete critical maintenance to the range complex's protective baffles. The shooting ranges will be open normal hours all other times.
Questions about the range closing can be addressed to the Elk Neck State Forest office at 410-287-5675.
All visitors are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure their firearms are legal to be possessed and transported in the State of Maryland.
Legality can be verified by clicking here.
At this time, yearly permits will only be available for purchase via the COMPASS System at
https://compass.dnr.maryland.gov/ or by visiting a sports retail license sales agent in the State of Maryland.
The shooting range at Elk Neck State Forest is open 9:00 a.m. to sunset Tuesday through Sunday. Mondays open at 1pm and will close at sunset. Ranges are open on all holidays including Mondays from 9 AM until Sunset.
You may purchase a permit for the year at a cost of $50.00 for ages 18 to 61, $25.00 for anyone 62 or older, or you may choose to purchase a daily permit for $10.00 (under 18 years of age is Free with a paying adult). The permits may be purchased at the forest office through an honor system (cash or check). If paying with cash you must have exact amount. Please download the range regulations below for specific information on using the range. All rules and regulations are posted on information boards and daily permits.
Elk Neck State Forest Yearly Range Permits can also be purchased from any authorized Sport License Sales agent or online at the
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Sport License Sales.
There are four ranges:
- 100 yard (riffle/muzzleloader)
- 50 yard (pistol)
- skeet range (no thrower provided)
- bow & arrow range
All shotguns shot on the rifle range must utilize a slug shell. No shot shell of any type is permitted on the rifle range.
All shooters must supply a target stand that is free standing in accordance with the range regulations. Target center is required to be a minimum of 54” above the ground.
Elk Neck State Forest does not rent firearms for use by the public nor provide ammunition or targets.
Permits are available at the Maintenance Complex near the Main Entrance and must be obtained prior to using the range complex.
All ranges are closed the second Saturday in September to allow for the Northern Chesapeake Sportsmans Kids Youth day activities.
