ranges/public-land
Ames Izaak Walton League
Ames
•30.5 miles from Des Moines
The Ames Izaak Walton League ("Ames Ikes") has been an active part of the central Iowa community for over 75 years. What started as a conservation-focused chapter has evolved into a multi-facility outdoor recreation destination with shooting sports as a core offering. The Ames chapter is unusual amo...
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01 // OVERVIEW
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Overview
Location details and information
The Ames Izaak Walton League ("Ames Ikes") has been an active part of the central Iowa community for over 75 years. What started as a conservation-focused chapter has evolved into a multi-facility outdoor recreation destination with shooting sports as a core offering.
The Ames chapter is unusual among Izaak Walton League chapters because they've built out comprehensive shooting infrastructure:
- •Outdoor Rifle/Pistol Range - One of the few 200-yard ranges in this part of Iowa. Members set their own targets and follow range rules for safe operation.
- •Indoor Rimfire Range - Located in the Chapterhouse basement, available during public hours and for member use.
- •Trap & Skeet Range - Dedicated clay shooting station for shotgun sports.
- •Air Rifle Facility - Indoor range used for air rifle team practice and competition.
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Archery Range | Dedicated range with posted rules and setup |
| 5-Acre Lake | Fishing and waterside recreation |
| Camping | Member camping available on property |
| Hiking Trails | Multiple trails through the property |
| Chapterhouse | Event space, shelter house, rental facilities |
The Ames Ikes run formal educational programs that go beyond just providing range access:
- •Iowa DNR Hunter Education Courses - Offered twice yearly for hunters pursuing their license
- •Bow Hunter Education - Specialized instruction for archery hunters
- •Youth Programs - Sponsorship of local Boy Scout Troop 230 and youth shooting sports
- •Air Rifle Competitions - Regular practice and competitive opportunities
The club operates on a membership basis. Joining involves:
1. Completing a membership application 2. Attending a new member meeting 3. Paying annual dues 4. Receiving a gate key for facility access
As a member-supported organization, the Ames Ikes reinvest in facilities and conservation work rather than operating for profit.
The Ames chapter participates in local, state, and national conservation projects. The broader Izaak Walton League network (330 chapters nationwide) focuses on protecting soil, air, woods, water, and wildlife through advocacy and hands-on conservation work.
Address: 2066 Stagecoach Road, Ames, IA 50010
The facility is located outside the city proper with enough land to support multiple ranges and outdoor recreation simultaneously—a key differentiator from urban ranges.
Most sportsmen's clubs specialize in one discipline. The Ames Ikes have built out facilities for rifle, pistol, shotgun, archery, and air rifle—all at the same location. This makes it practical for families or individuals interested in exploring multiple shooting sports without driving to different venues.
Restrictions
- •Members only (membership application and approval required)
- •Eye and ear protection required
- •Follow all range-specific rules posted at each facility
- •Compliance with Iowa hunting and firearms regulations
- •Cease fire times enforced
Pro Tips for Visiting
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Indoor Rimfire Range - Located in the Chapterhouse basement, available during public hours and for member use.
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Trap & Skeet Range - Dedicated clay shooting station for shotgun sports.
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Air Rifle Facility - Indoor range used for air rifle team practice and competition.
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Iowa DNR [Hunter Education](/handbook/hunter-education) Courses - Offered twice yearly for hunters pursuing their license
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Bow Hunter Education - Specialized instruction for archery hunters
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Youth Programs - Sponsorship of local Boy Scout Troop 230 and youth shooting sports
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