Title: Bullseye! Exploring Youth Archery & Outdoor Family Fun in Arkansas
There’s something special about trading screens for sunshine and spending a day outside as a family. Our recent adventure to the Mulberry Archery Range in Mulberry, Arkansas reminded us just how rewarding that time together can be—especially when it involves trying something new like youth archery!
Whether your child is just starting out or already confident with a bow, archery is an exciting way to build focus, patience, and confidence. Best of all, it’s a hobby families can enjoy together in the great outdoors.
🏹 Why Youth Archery Is a Great Family Activity
Archery isn’t just about hitting the bullseye—it’s about slowing down, aiming with intention, and celebrating progress. For kids, it’s a confidence builder. For parents, it’s a chance to connect and cheer them on. And for everyone, it’s a chance to spend time outside moving, laughing, and learning together.
Some of the benefits of getting involved in youth archery as a family include:
- Improved focus and discipline
- Better hand-eye coordination
- Increased self-confidence
- Opportunities to enjoy nature and unplug from technology
- Shared family bonding experiences
Plus, many archery ranges are free or low-cost, making them a budget-friendly outdoor option for families who love to adventure.
👉 Not sure where to start? Your local nature center is a great place to try archery for free! We highly recommend visiting a center like the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Fort Smith. They offer free youth archery programs throughout the year where kids can safely learn the basics using Genesis bows under the guidance of trained staff. It’s a low-pressure way to try the sport and spark a new outdoor interest—no gear or experience needed!
🌲 Our Day at Mulberry Archery Range
Our visit to the Mulberry Archery Range in Mulberry, Arkansas was our first step into the world of 3D target archery—and we were hooked! Morgan brought along her Genesis Bow and gave it her all as she aimed at realistic 3D animal targets scattered through the wooded course.
The range is peaceful, nestled in the forest with just enough challenge to make every shot feel like a mini quest. We loved that it was family-friendly, quiet, and well-maintained, with enough variety in the targets to keep everyone engaged. It’s a perfect day trip for anyone looking to combine nature and skill-building.
📍 Location: Just outside of Mulberry, AR near the Ozark National Forest at the back of Vine Prairie Park.
📍 3 Family-Friendly Outdoor Archery Ranges in Arkansas
Ready to grab a bow and head outside? Here are three great outdoor archery ranges in Arkansas that welcome families and youth archers:
- Mulberry Archery Range – Mulberry, AR
- Features 3D targets and natural terrain
- Great for beginners and intermediate archers
- Free and open to the public
- Cook’s Landing Archery Range – North Little Rock, AR
- Located in the Arkansas River Trail System
- Offers both static and 3D targets
- Beautiful river views and nearby trails for hiking/biking
- Rick Evans Grandview Prairie WMA – Columbus, AR
- Includes archery and shooting sports facilities
- Hosts youth events and educational programs
- Gorgeous prairie setting with wildlife and nature trails
🎯 Let the Adventure Begin
Youth archery is more than just learning to shoot—it’s about learning to slow down, aim with purpose, and spend time with the people who matter most. Whether you’re in the woods of Mulberry or the prairies near Columbus, Arkansas has so many beautiful spots to unplug and play together.
🎥 Be sure to check out our full video from the Mulberry Archery Range to see Morgan in action with her Genesis Bow!
👉 And don’t forget to visit our Outdoor Adventures section of the blog for more ideas on how to turn everyday trips into lifelong memories.
🛒 Youth Archery Gear to Get Started
Ready to try youth archery with your family? You don’t need much to begin—just a few key pieces of gear to help your young archer succeed safely and confidently. Here are some beginner-friendly essentials we recommend (and use ourselves!):
- Genesis Original Bow Kit– Great for beginners and used in NASP programs (the kit comes with a quiver and arrows)
- Easton Youth Arrows – Lightweight and sized right for kids used in NASP
- Arm Guard and Finger Tab Set – For comfort and protection while shooting
- Quiver – To keep arrows organized and easy to carry
- Morell Youth Target – Durable, portable, and perfect for home practice
👉 We’ve linked all of our favorite beginner gear on Amazon to make it easy to get started!
Until next time—hit your mark and make those memories! Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!
