Elm Fork Shooting Sports: Dallas’s Ultimate Outdoor Playground

Elm Fork Shooting Sports is located in Dallas, Texas. It is a 467-acre public shooting range that has been a hub for shooting enthusiasts since the 1960s. This organization is a partnership between the city of Dallas Park and Recreation Department and Elm Fork Shooting Sports. It offers a wide range of activities, such as shotgun sports, and it goes all the way to archery, all of which can be experienced without the need for reservations.

If you are looking for a place where you can learn, practice and have fun with some of the amazing shooting sports this might just be your favourite spot. In this blog we are going to explore what makes Elm Fork so special and why it has become famous among the shooting lovers.

A Rich History Rooted in Community

Elm Fork Shooting is a part of Dallas’s long history of promoting outdoor sports; it was originally created as a community initiative, but over the years, the facility has evolved so much, as noted on the Dallas Parks official website  (Elm Fork Shooting Sports | Dallas Parks, TX – Official Website). Local leaders and its community members created a space that is safe, welcoming and fun for everyone who are interested in shooting sports. The facility is located at 10751 Luna Road, Dallas, TX 75220, with contact details including a phone number (972 556-0103) and email ([email protected]), as per their official site (Elm Fork Shooting Sports).

What You’ll Find at Elm Fork Shooting Sports

This facility has something for everyone, it is divided into different areas and each one is designed for a specific type of shooting activity. Here’s a quick guide to what you can expect from the Elm Fork:

Facilities and Activities

Their facilities are spread widely in the area to cater to different interests.

Shotgun Fun and Clay Shooting

If you love the idea of hitting constantly moving targets then this might be for you. The shotgun area is set up so you can practice shooting clay (flying targets).

You will find seven practice, ATA and Wobble trap fields, six skeet fields with covered seating, a 5 stand station, and sporting clays with courses like the 100 target woods and meadows with a plus 50 target vintage course. This facility rules are very strict with mandatory eye and ear protection and rapid is not allowed while using this service. Practice Traps: Seven traps available for shooters to tune up skills on easy targets, suitable for both new and experienced individuals.

Here is a detailed  summary:

• Trap Fields: Includes both American Trap Association (ATA) and Wobble trap fields, with the latter offering moving targets for added challenge. A video demonstration is available at (vimeo).
• American Skeet: Six fields equipped with covered seating areas, ideal for precision and timing practice, with a demonstration video at (vimeo).
• 5 Stand: Five covered stations for shooters to test reflexes, with varied target presentations, detailed at (vimeo).
• Sporting Clays: Features the 100-target Woods Course, 100-target Meadows Super Sport Course, and 50-target Vintage Course, simulating hunting scenarios with diverse terrain. Pricing includes $12.95 per shooter for 25 targets, with discounts for members, as noted on the facilities page.

Pricing for rentals and shotgun sports include cart rentals at $12 per shooter with drivers needing to be at least 16 years old.

Rifle and Pistol Ranges

For those who are interested in small guns and rifles then this facility is for you. They offer dedicated ranges for these types of guns too. This facility also hosts some basic classes for newbies to safe firearm handling, storage and maintenance.These are well maintained which gives you plenty of space and time to practice at your speed. 

They include a Pistol Paper Bay (22 lanes, 3-25 yards), Reactive Steel Bay (pistol calibers, 10 yards 25-50 Yard Range (26 lanes, no standing or prone shooting), 100 Yard Range (18 lanes, requires 3-power+ optics, no FMJ ammo), Tactical Bay (12 lanes, 7-25 yards for rifles, pistols, shotguns with restrictions), and a .22 Shooting Gallery for family-friendly plinking.

Here is a detailed summary:

• Pistol Paper Bay: 22 lanes, targets at 3-25 yards, one paper target included with range fee.
• Reactive Steel Bay: For pistol calibers only, with various plate racks and trees at 10 yards.
• 25-50 Yard Range: 26 lanes, suitable for longer distances with open sights, but with restrictions like no standing or prone shooting, and only .357 Mag and up carbines/lever actions allowed.
• 100-Yard Range: It has 18 lanes and requires shooters to demonstrate accuracy. Rifles need 3-power+ optics, and no FMJ, steel core, or military ammo is allowed.
• Tactical Bay: 12 lanes, allows rifles, pistols, shotguns (no bird shot, buckshot, and slugs only), with targets at 7, 15, and 25 yards.
• .22 Shooting Gallery: An old-time mechanical gallery for .22 LR rifles or pistols, great for family plinking.

Its pricing varies, with steel target bays costing  $23-$32.50 + tax per shooter. Ammunition for rentals must be purchased at the pro shop.

Archery Range

The facilities in Elm Fork usually include firearms, but they also provide archery, which offers a chance to try a completely different kind of sport.

This range is managed by the Texans Archery Club, and it provides a practice range of (10-50 yards with an elevated platform), Long Distance/FITA Range (up to 70 yards/meters), 3-D Course with dozens of targets, Broadhead Range (50 yards max), Instructional Range for classes, and a Form Wall for form practice. It’s open to the public on weekends for a $10 fee, with memberships offering access from Wednesday to Sunday.

Here is a detailed summary from  (Elm Fork Facilities):

• Practice Range: Targets from 10-50 yards, including an elevated shooting platform.
• Long Distance/FITA Range: Maximum distances of 70 yards and 70 meters, suitable for competitive archery.
• 3-D Course: Dozens of 3-D targets for realistic hunting practice.
• Broadhead Range: Maximum distance of 50 yards for hunting preparation.
• Instructional Range: Perfect for classes, lessons, and events.
• Form Wall: Short-distance range with an oversized backstop for form practice, ideal for beginners or accessory testing.

The range is public on weekends with a $10 fee, and memberships offer access W-Sunday, as noted on (Dallas – Elm Fork Range). It’s in a flood plain, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing and prepare for insects, with gravel paths and the potential for poison ivy or snakes.

Range Type Features/Details Max Distance Surface Additional Notes

Instruction Range Cool, shady wooded area, easel-style targets, foam backstop, permanent instructional signs, picnic tables under pavilion 25 yds Gravel Nature trail style, for beginning archers, classes, and parties

Form Wall Cool, shady wooded area, oversized foam-panel wall (12 ft wide, 8 ft tall), for form development and gear testing 20 yds Gravel New shooters Range Certify here (6 arrows at 10 yds, 5/6 must hit 12″ target)

Practice Range Targets 10–70 yds, walk-up shooting platform for 3D targets, covered shooting line, 15 lanes of FIELD/3D 70 yds Gravel For stump shooting

Woods Course Open full-time, big gravel nature trail, regulation 14 lane Field course, optional stands, multiple target setups, Varies Gravel Roving course for Field Archery and 3D target games, fun and challenging

Long distance/Tournament Field Open field, 100 yds for long-distance shooting, multiple target setups, optional stands 100 yds Not specified For practice and tournaments, unlimited setup variations

Events, Learning, and Training the Right Way

Events and Training

Elm Fork Shooting sports is also a learning place where safety and skill classes are given to newbies and they are offered with  a wide range of classes that are designed to give you confidence and expertise. Training options include Basic Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun courses, Refuse to Be A Victim Seminars, and more, focusing on safe handling and usage.

This facility also hosts numerous events, such as the Texas Hunter Education course scheduled for April 19, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 6:00pm, led by Sheri Tull for just $15.

Elm Fork hosts various events, such as a Texas Hunter Education course scheduled for April 19, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, led by Sheri Tull for $15. 

Here is a detailed summary for their programs and classes:

Basic Pistol Classes and more

If  you have never used a pistoled before then this basic course is a perfect starting point. In this course you learn the basics like how a pistol works, safety and the best way to hold and shoot. Their instructors are very friendly and engaging. They make sure that candidate understands the rules and practices safe handling techniques, making it a stress free environment for beginners.  

They also provide shotgun training sessions and Hunting Education courses.

The Hunting education course classes are designed to educate you on safe hunting practice , the legal requirements of hunting in Texas and how to respect nature while engaging in sport.

Texas License to Carry Courses

For members who are interested in legally carrying a weapon, Elm Fork also offers a Texas License to carry course. This course covers everything from practical aspects of handling firearms to the legal responsibility and credibility if you are planning to own or carry a firearm.

Visitor Experience

Many people who visit Elm Fork Shooting Sports have their own experiences to share their reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Yelp and these reviews are generally positive, with the members enjoying a variety of activities. One reviewer shared, “I like the sporting clays courses, with the Woods being my favorite. Lots of skeet fields, and the 5-stand is a fun change at times. I don’t think the ammo pricing is all that great – it’s convenient but not necessarily priced to market. If you don’t have time to stop at Cabela’s or Academy, expect to pay 10-25% more for ammo purchased at the range. Rifle/pistol ranges are great. Love the fact that they have a true 100 yd range for zeroing the rifle. I always have FUN at Elm Fork. The smell of gunpowder is very soothing to me, and I always burn plenty of it here.” However, some mention occasional staff issues, which is a noted but minor concern.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

If you are planning to make a visit to Elm Fork then hera are some important and useful tips from us to help you have the best experience possible:

1. Plan Ahead: First Check the schedule for classes and events before going there so that you can pick something in which you have interest.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothes: Wear something which you find comfortable hanging around and doing activities  outside possibly for several hours.
3. Bring Essentials: Bring daily essentials like a water bottle or any personal gear you need for your day.
4. Ask Questions: The staff and instructors are friendly and there to help you or assist you do not hesitate to ask for advice or tips and to clear your doubts about the facility.

Final Thoughts

Elm Fork Shooting Sports offers a unique experience of education and fun with a community that can not be found easily. It is a place where safety and fun are first hand experienced by its visitors and a place where you are welcome to learn,compete and grow. From the first time you step onto the range, you are provided with passionate staff and visitors alike for shooting sports which makes this facility that is enriching and enjoyable.

If you are curious about firearms or maybe wondering about trying a new sport or looking to improve your skills then Elm Fork has many things to offer. Their friendly atmosphere, various programs create a destination that feels like a very amazing place to hangout with your family and friends.

Conclusion

Elm Fork Shooting Sports stands as a wide facility for shooting enthusiasts which offers a range of activities from pistol to archery. Its long history and top rated status make it a key place in Dallas with more positive experiences from its visitors despite minor problems like staff days and ammo pricing. They also maintain safety and provide safety to its visitors, Whether for a casual shooting or competitive or licensed firearm this facility provides everything and for all levels of members.

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