Oklahoma Reopened Renovated Public Shooting Ranges

The state has modernized facilities at the Lexington and Canton wildlife management areas to expand shooting access.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Hunting

Oklahoma Reopened Renovated Public Shooting Ranges

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The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation has completed renovations on shooting ranges located at the Lexington and Canton wildlife management areas. These facilities now feature updated infrastructure designed for both hunters and recreational shooters.

Why it matters

These upgrades are part of a broader, decade-long initiative by state officials to increase public shooting access across Oklahoma. The projects aim to provide improved environments for training and competitive shooting activities.

The Lexington range features a 30-yard pistol range, two 100-yard rifle ranges, and trap and archery lanes. The Canton site offers a 50-yard pistol range, 100-yard and 200-yard rifle ranges, and trap and archery facilities, all with ADA access.

The players

Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

This state agency is responsible for managing wildlife resources and providing public outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Oklahoma.

The details

Both sites have been upgraded to include ADA-compliant access and parking, ensuring the facilities are usable for a broader range of the public. Users must possess a valid Oklahoma hunting or combination license to utilize the ranges unless they meet specific exemption criteria.

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation launched its expansion campaign in 2015.
The department has been completing range construction projects since 2017.
The renovated ranges at Lexington and Canton were officially reopened on October 6, 2026.

Culture Shift

These facility upgrades represent a transition toward standardized, accessible public infrastructure within the hunting and shooting community. This aligns with a nationwide shift toward formalizing public land usage to support both conservation funding and recreational access.

Visitors to the Lexington and Canton areas can now utilize modern, ADA-compliant ranges for practice and competitive shooting. Residents should ensure they carry a valid Oklahoma hunting or combination license to remain compliant with state facility regulations.

The takeaway

Reliable public access to maintained shooting facilities encourages safer practice habits and better preparation for hunting seasons. Archers and rifle shooters can use these state-managed sites to maintain their skills throughout the year.