AFI New England 4th Annual Duck Camp - Rhode Island

Event Start Date: 1/8/2026 6:00 PM

Event End Date: 1/11/2026 10:00 AM

New England AFI is Hosting the 4th Annual Duck Camp in South Kingstown, Rhode Island!

Why You Should Want to Attend:

The Armed Forces Initiative (AFI) of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is dedicated to connecting the military community with the wild public lands and waters we all share. Join the New England AFI Chapter, in coordination with BHA New England, for our 4th Annual Duck Camp — a weekend of waterfowl hunting, conservation, and camaraderie in the heart of Rhode Island’s coastal wetlands.

This event brings together active-duty service members, veterans, and BHA members from across the region to experience the best of New England’s waterfowling heritage. Whether you’re a first-time hunter or a seasoned outdoorsman, AFI Duck Camp offers an unmatched opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to the future of public lands and conservation.

What It Is:

The 4th Annual AFI Duck Camp is a multi-day experience focused on building community through hunting, mentorship, and conservation. Participants will spend the weekend waterfowling on public lands and waters while learning about the ethics, biology, and stewardship that underpin North America’s hunting tradition.

Attendees can expect to:

• Experience premier duck hunting on Rhode Island’s coastal public lands and waters

• Learn about conservation ethics, wildlife management, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation

• Build leadership skills and camaraderie among veterans, service members, and BHA members

• Network with BHA partners and local conservation leaders

• Participate in evening campfire discussions, gear raffles, and community-building activities

Whether you’re chasing your first bird or refining your calling and shooting techniques, this event is about strengthening the connection between military service and stewardship of our wild places.

When Is It:

Thursday, January 8th – Sunday, January 11th, 2026
Thursday 6:00 PM – Sunday 10:00 AM EST

Where Is It:

South Kingstown, Rhode Island
Explore Rhode Island Coastal Wetlands

Who Can Attend:

• This event is open to all members of the military community to participate (Active duty, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans, and Gold Star families)

• This event is limited to 10 people maximum. Please fill out the application at the link in the RSVP confirmation email. Selected attendees will receive further information via email from the NE AFI liaison prior to the event.

You do not need to be a BHA member to attend (but we’d love it if you were!).

Additional Details:

• Meals and lodging provided for all attendees

• Bring personal waterfowl gear and waders; some communal equipment will be available

• Raffle prizes and sponsor giveaways from onX, Bass Pro Shops, and local partners

• Participants will need a valid Rhode Island hunting license and state waterfowl stamp

• Expect cold, coastal weather — pack accordingly

Questions?

Contact Thomas Bleifuss, New England AFI Liaison, neafi@backcountryhunters.org