Camp Ripley – Minnesota National Guard

Camp Ripley Training Center

Camp Ripley, located near Little Falls, Minnesota, is a 53,000-acre regional training center hosting numerous ranges and state-of-the-art facilities to support the training requirements of military and civilian agencies. The training center provides service, resources and facilities that empower organizations to conduct essential training. Supporting a wide range of customers, from local law enforcement agencies to all branches of the Department of Defense, Camp Ripley is a primary training facility for Minnesota National Guard units.

2024 Accomplishments

Throughout 2024, Camp Ripley’s command team balanced year-round training for a variety of Department of Defense personnel, supporting 567,644 person-days and 73,950 person-days for inter-agency partners. These mission standards supported individual Guard member readiness while encouraging positive values for their families, and integrating overall wellbeing through the Holistic Health and Fitness Program. This collectively fostered education and operation of new equipment adhering to the Guard’s modernization plan. The development of Camp Ripley’s infrastructure, including fiber optic network downrange, increased year-round base usage. In addition, Area 5 “Long Buildings” for troop lodging, modern command, and administrative services are available to units in the in the cantonment area. The completion of four new railheads will aid the rapid mobilization or influx of brigade-sized units reducing time devoted to equipment movement.

Camp Ripley’s recreation and hunting programs improved quality control and safety through the iSportsman program for access control, permit sales, revenue generation, and conservation for outdoor recreational
activities.

2025 Objectives

In 2025, Camp Ripley will sustain the focus of partnership and cooperation locally, nationally, and globally. It will host international allies through the State Partnership Program, distinguished visitors, and officials from the state and federal government while nurturing local community relations. The ongoing objective to increase winter training with our international allies and working to advance cold weather readiness with the National Guard Arctic Interest Council will increase training capabilities for active and
reserve components.
As in previous years, Camp Ripley will emphasize the Minnesota National Guard’s top priority of ‘People First’ by adding programs such as the USO to increase the quality of morale, welfare, and recreation opportunities for members on and off the base.