Enjoy target shooting? Need a place to safely sight in your rifle? Enjoy various competitive shooting events? Various shooting events take place throughout the year. The ranges also offer by-permission use of their facilities.

Seneca Trap Range

At south end of Seneca, turn west on Camp Creek Road a short distance.

Facility includes two trap ranges and one skeet range, a 100-yard small arms range. Restroom facilities on site.

Almost every Sunday beginning at 10 a.m., all are welcome to join in. Its $3.50 for 25 bird shoots, and $2 for 10 practice bird shoots. The pot is split, depending on what is taken in. Weather permitting, barbecues are fired up, otherwise finger foods are brought.

The site is also open by permission. For more information, call Dean Nodine, 541-575-1918.

Bear Creek Rifle Range

Located .9 mile off Highway 26, 10 miles east of John Day, between John Day and Prairie City.

This site features a covered, eight-bay firing line and one of the best rifle ranges in the west.

The 1,000-yard range has become popular with many shooting enthusiasts, including black powder fans.

Set into a small valley, with targets scattered throughout, the range also accommodates pistol shooters. An archery range is forthcoming.

The site features year-round portable toilet facilities. A new scorekeepers booth was completed in spring 2011, built in an old-west style with a false front.

Those using the course at other times must be with a trained safety officer who is a member.

For more information on Bear Creek Rifle Range, call director Walt Gentis, 541-575-0593.

Heading up the black powder group is Jim Sproul, who can be reached at 541-620-0231.

For more on the shotgun enthusiasts group, call Carroll Walton, 541-820-4624.