BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale’s outdoor recreation staff holds many options for Airmen and families seeking adventure on and off base, just in time for the summer.
The facilities and programs are open to active duty, Department of Defense civilians, reservists, retirees and their immediate family members to provide quality morale, welfare, recreation and support services.
“Outdoor rec supports every part of the mission. We impact everyone’s lives whether its putting in a garden or taking a canoe trip around the base,” said Michelle Jerome, 2nd Force Support Squadron outdoor recreation supervisor and equipment rental manager.
The center also offers equipment rentals for items such as boats, fishing gear, a variety of campers and inflatables. They even have spaces available for RV parking.
Another option Barksdale Outdoor Rec provides is to get back to nature and hike either the three or seven mile wooded trails. Hiking trails begin on the east side of the Flag Lake Gate and are well marked to make it difficult to accidentally stray off course. Maps are also available at the natural resources office.
“My husband and I love using the trails available on base,” said McKenzie Curtis, a Barksdale spouse. “There are just so many opportunities to be explored, especially in the summer.”
There are a variety of special events hosted by the Barksdale Outdoor Recreation staff including canoe trips, archery tournaments, bike riding and organized hikes.
“There’s so much to do, we have so many lakes and trails that are available on the far side of the base,” Jerome said. “We’re all a big family out here and we like to help families have fun.”
Visit outdoor recreation to begin a summer adventure. For more information, visit www.barksdalelife.com or call 318-456-3426.