About Southern Minnesota Sportsman’s Club
Southern Minnesota Sportsman’s Club represents a cornerstone of recreational and competitive shooting in the Rochester area, having served the community since the 1920s. Built on enduring principles of sportsmanship and conservation, this non-profit organization operates as a 64-acre shooting destination that accommodates shooters of every skill level, from curious beginners to seasoned competitors. The club’s founding commitment to responsible shooting practices remains evident in its rigorous safety protocols and professional facility management today.
The physical footprint of the club is genuinely impressive. Spread across 64 acres southeast of Rochester, the facility offers one of the most comprehensive collections of shooting ranges in Minnesota. Members and visitors enjoy access to two lighted trap ranges, multiple handgun facilities, two 25-yard ranges, two 50-yard ranges, two falling plate racks, and both 100 and 200-yard rifle ranges. The archery range provides additional diversity for compound and traditional bowyers. Two separate clubhouses serve as social gathering points and functional centers for the shooting community. This range of facilities means that whether you’re interested in clay shooting, precision rifle work, handgun practice, or archery, you’ll find dedicated infrastructure at the club.
What truly sets Southern Minnesota Sportsman’s Club apart is its exceptional membership value and accessibility. At just $100 per year, the annual membership is remarkably affordable for the access and facilities provided. Members can use the ranges during virtually all daylight hours - from sunrise to sunset - giving unlimited practice opportunities throughout the year. The outdoor setting, combined with the reasonable cost, has generated enthusiastic praise from members and visiting shooters. The club explicitly welcomes family visits, making it an inclusive destination for fathers and mothers introducing children to marksmanship traditions. The straightforward membership application process, combined with the mandatory but streamlined online safety orientation, ensures that responsible shooting practices remain central to the club’s culture.
The club’s affiliation with the NRA and partnership with the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) extends its reach beyond casual recreation. Members can participate in organized CMP events and purchase firearms through the organization, creating a pathway for shooters interested in competitive marksmanship. This institutional support network, combined with the club’s well-maintained facilities and safety-first philosophy, has earned Southern Minnesota Sportsman’s Club its solid 4.6-star rating and sustained community respect across more than two decades of reviews.