Our Roots
The Wawarsing Rod & Gun Club has a long and proud history rooted in community, volunteerism, and a shared respect for the outdoors. Since its founding in 1938, the club has grown from a small group of local sportsmen into a thriving organization of more than 900 members who value camaraderie, safe shooting, and responsible stewardship of the shooting sports.
The club was formed through the amalgamation of three local organizations: the Cotton Tail Club, the Southern Ulster Fish and Game Club, and the Ellenville Chapter of the Izaak Walton League. From those early days, members came together not only to share their passion for hunting and shooting, but also to build something lasting for future generations.
In 1953, the club made a defining investment in its future with the purchase of the former Sutta Bungalow Colony near Honk Lake in Napanoch. This 65-acre property became the foundation of what the club is today. Through years of dedication and volunteer effort, members worked to improve the land, retire debt, and develop facilities that could support a growing membership.
Over the decades, the club has remained strong because of the people behind it. Generations of members have contributed their time and effort to maintain the grounds, support events, and ensure that the club continues to operate in a way that reflects its core values. While individual contributions sometimes go unrecognized, the collective impact is visible throughout the property and in the strength of the organization today.
Who We Are Today
The Wawarsing Rod & Gun Club has always taken pride in being open and welcoming. Membership is available to individuals and families from both the local area and beyond, creating a diverse and engaged community. This inclusive approach has helped the club grow while maintaining the informal, friendly atmosphere that members value.
Today, the club offers a range of shooting opportunities, including rimfire and centerfire rifle ranges out to 300 yards, trap and skeet fields, and an archery range. While the facilities continue to serve members well, the true strength of the club remains its people and the shared experiences that bring them together.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, the club is focused on strengthening its role in promoting safe and responsible firearm use, supporting the Second Amendment, and encouraging participation in the shooting sports. The club is also working toward renewing its connection with the local community, expanding opportunities for education and mentorship, and welcoming the next generation of members into the traditions that have sustained it for decades.
As the Wawarsing Rod & Gun Club moves forward, it does so with a clear understanding of its roots and a continued commitment to sportsmanship, respect, and fellowship—values that have defined the club from the beginning and will carry it into the future.