MDHA Forkhorn Camps

MDHA Forkhorn Camps offer youth hunting and outdoor education that includes firearm safety certification, beginning rifle, archery, shotgun, and safe shooting scenarios. Campers take part in activities such as wildlife management, whitetail deer ecology, big game ecology, big and small game biology, and outdoor survival skills. The program also includes map and compass orienteering, deer hunting techniques, specialty hunting techniques, hunting techniques, marksmanship training, advanced marksmanship, wing shooting training, game preparation, bow hunting certification, bow hunting tips, tree stand safety, and instruction in ethical hunting practices and hunter ethics and responsibilities.

• Ages: 11–17 years old

MDHA Forkhorn Camps are hosted by the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA), and the camps are authorized to provide the MDHA Forkhorn Camp experience. Camps are described as premier youth educational programs for young hunters in Minnesota and neighboring states and are designed for adventure-loving kids and teens. The camps focus on teaching essential hunting safety, environmental sustainability, and the importance of protecting natural resources, and go beyond firearm safety certification with conservation-focused education. According to MDHA, thousands of young outdoor enthusiasts have taken their first steps into hunting and conservation through these camps, which have been part of safeguarding Minnesota's deer and hunting legacy for over 40 years. The mission of MDHA is stated as “Protecting the future of deer and deer hunting through Habitat, Education, Advocacy and Legislation.” To qualify for an MDHA scholarship, the child or an immediate family member must be a current member of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, with further requirements dependent on the local chapter.

Last updated February 22, 2026.