Wild Hog Roundup in Camden to benefit Black Belt Animal Rescue, Wilcox Academy

The 2026 Wild Hog Roundup is set for Feb. 20 and 21, bringing hunters from across the region together for a weekend competition that doubles as a fundraiser for two local causes: Black Belt Animal Rescue and Wilcox Academy. 

Organizer Rick Pipkins said this year’s event will feature three cash prize categories: Largest boar, Largest sow, Most total weight.  

Payouts will be determined by the number of tickets sold, with all sponsorship proceeds going directly to the two beneficiaries. “The ticket money funds the payout, and the sponsorships go to our charities,” Pipkins said. 

The event continues the legacy of the late “Big Daddy” Lawler, who championed animal welfare efforts in the Black Belt. Much of the fundraising will support Black Belt Animal Rescue, led by Jennifer Chapman, whose “Ditches to Riches” program takes in abandoned and stray animals. 

“She actually doesn’t have a facility at this point. She’s doing it from her home, and she needs some help,” Pipkins said. 

Funds will also support Wilcox Academy, helping provide resources for local students. 

“What better cause than to help your children and help the animals and try to control a nuisance,” Pipkins said. 

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Wild hogs continue to cause widespread damage across the region, affecting timber growth, farmland, erosion and hunting leases. 

“They have such a negative impact on our economy. We’re getting rid of something that’s causing such a problem and investing in areas that are positive,” he said. 

Weigh-ins will be at Wilcox Farm Center & Hunting Supply in Camden on Friday, Feb. 20 from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 21 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

The opening night will include live entertainment and a food truck beginning around 5 p.m. 

Tickets are available at multiple locations, including A&M Pawn Shop in Monroeville, Dunn Sporting Goods in Thomasville, Safford Equipment in Safford. In Camden numerous businesses, including Coast to Coast, Handyman Build & Supply, Lofton’s Bait Shop, McGraw-Webb Chevrolet, Wilcox Farm & Hunting Center and the newly opened Miller’s Ferry Marina. 

Last year’s event raised roughly $3,500 for the rescue, and organizers hope to double that amount in 2026. 

For questions or sponsorship information, contact Rick Pipkins at 251-709-9254.