Spring features family fun at Barksdale

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  As fall gives way to spring and the temperature rises, Airmen, families and friends will head outside to enjoy outdoor recreational activities from outdoor sports to hunting and camping.

But outdoor enthusiasts need not travel far to find fun in the sun. Barksdale's Outdoor Recreation Center offers many opportunities to beat the heat and enjoy the outdoors.

According to the 2nd Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation website, barksdaleservices.com, there will be a Kid Fish event April 20 and an archery shoot April 21.

"Kid Fish is mainly for kids and families who fish or are curious about fishing, and want to use our equipment instead of purchasing their own," said Caitlin Cook, 2nd FSS Outdoor Recreation Center programmer. "Last year we had around 80 participants, but this year we hope to see about 100 people at our event. We'll also be giving out trophies and prizes."

Children ages 15 and under do not require a fishing license, she said.

On April 21, the day following the Kid Fish event, Outdoor Recreation will also host an archery shoot.

"We have archery lanes open every third Sunday through September," said Corinna Bridges, 2nd FSS Outdoor Recreation Operations clerk. "It's open to anyone and people of all ages, but this year we want to see more Airmen participate."

The Outdoor Recreation Center also offers equipment rentals for outdoor activities such as boats and fishing gear, and also has spaces for RV parking. Campers of varying sizes are also available for rent.

For Airmen and families seeking adventure, Barksdale also has a three and a seven-mile hiking trails that are well marked for safety.

The Outdoor Recreation staff hosts a variety of events each month that include canoe trips, family camping trips, backpacking, bike-riding and organized hikes through Barksdale and the surrounding area.

The great outdoors can be an exciting experience in the spring, but appropriate safety measures should be taken.

"Ticks are a common problem here," said Bridges. "Wear long sleeves and using bug repellant will help keep them off you."

With plenty of events planned for this season, Airmen have lots to look forward to with their families.

"We hope to give Airmen a place to leave some of the work stress and go out with families and friends and enjoy what we have to offer here," said Bridges.

For more information on outdoor recreation services offered at Barksdale, visit Outdoor Recreation at 1264 Twining Drive or call (318) 456-3426.