What is Freedom Hunt?

Freedom Hunt is a 501(C)(3) not-for-profit organization that provides special needs kids the opportunity to experience the outdoors.

How did it start?

Freedom hunt was created through the vision of a life-long Hoosier named Steve Griffey. Steve’s primary focus was to create opportunities for those with special challenges to enjoy the outdoors like he did. The first Freedom Hunt took place in rural Cass County, Indiana in 2006 and was in large part, due to the generosity of landowners Jim and Shelby Rogers.

Do you have to have a hunting license?

Yes, you must obtain either an Indiana youth apprenticeship license or youth deer hunting license. Information about obtaining a license can be found at the bottom of the Apply page.

Is it just deer hunting?

Our primary focus is on our whitetail deer hunt. However, we do have fishing opportunities available for all participants in the event they harvest a deer early in the event and would like to do some fishing during the remaining portion of the weekend.

For those interested in a spring turkey hunt, check out our sister organization, Freedom Hunt Southern Swing.

Who is eligible to participate?

Any boy or girl between the ages of 8 and 17 at the time of the hunt who is interested in experiencing the outdoors and is accompanied by a parent or guardian. We welcome participants from across Indiana and can often accommodate those from other Midwestern states as well.

Is it just for boys?

Both girls and boys are eligible to participate and we think you will find that our event does not favor one over the other. Mother Nature does not discriminate.

Who can attend?

Each participant must be accompanied by either a parent or guardian throughout the entire weekend event.

* All non hunting children attending Freedom Hunt events must have an adult guardian in camp with them at all times.

Where is the event held?

The fall deer Freedom Hunt event is held on private property in Cass County, Indiana.

The spring turkey Freedom Hunt is held on private property in Southern Indiana.

Will there be anyone to help my child?

Yes, every participant will have their very own hunting guide while in the field. There are also numerous volunteers to assist children back at camp . * However, any children left at camp must have an adult camp guardian with them at all times.

What will my child have to wear?

We will provide required hunter orange items, as well as an assortment of hunting gear! The young hunter is responsible for his/her own sleeping bag and personal gear.

Freedom Hunt is a not-for-profit organization providing special needs children the opportunity to experience the outdoors. With a host of volunteers, we assist each candidate in Hunter's Education and provide a fun outdoor hunting and camping experience. On opening day, each young hunter - along with his or her own experienced hunting guide - gets a spot in the field.