Warm-weather activities? Outdoor Rec has you covered

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Ellis
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Most of the year, there are things to do outside around MacDill. However, with the warming weather of spring and summer more and more people will take to the outdoors. To help with activities around base is the MacDill Air Force Base Outdoor and Recreation facilities and programs.

The MacDill Air Force Base Outdoor and Recreation facilities and programs are open to active duty, Department of Defense civilians, reservists, retirees and immediate family members.

Outdoor and Recreation falls under the 6th Force Support Squadron and "provides quality morale, welfare, recreation and support services by continuously improving our process," said Lt. Col. Caroline C. Omdal, the commander of the 6th Force Support Squadron.

Some of the activities Outdoor and Recreation provides include:

u The Bay Palms Golf Complex, which was named 'Best Golf Program in the Air Force' in 2002. The two 18-hole, par 72 courses are truly a 'golfer's paradise.' One can perfect their game with the lighted practice putting green, a 24-hour-a-day lighted driving range, a practice chipping green and sand traps areas.

u The Base Pool will reopen Memorial Day weekend. Military Fitness Swim times will be from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Group activities such as swim parties can be arranged by request. The pool is also seeking to hire 14 lifeguards. Applicants must have a Red Cross certification and apply through the Web at NAF.org. This would be a great opportunity for teens and college students to earn extra money during the summer months.

u Equipment Rentals such as: tents, campers and accessories are available for rental on hourly, daily, and/or weekly basis. Boats, fishing gear, sleeping bags, camping equipment and grills are some of the vast rental equipment choices.

u The FamCamp, the all year-round program, operates with 346 full-service sites complete with electricity, water, waste disposal, cable TV and optional telephone service. The area also includes 37 partial hook-up spots, complete with water and electric. There also 36 dry camp sites and a tent camping area. Campers which sleep up to six are also available for rent.

u Lewis Lake has four pavilions, picnic tables, grills, a playground and a volleyball court. Advance reservations, with a $25 refundable deposit are required. On April 30, Outdoor and Recreation's first fishing tournament will take place; registration has already begun and will continue up to April 29. There will be food and live entertainment from a band at the event.

u The Marina is now open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is a one-stop-shop for all your marina needs. The marina sells live and frozen bait, fishing tackle, fuel, propane, beach and RV supplies, ice and many more fishing items. A wide variety of items are available for rent, including boats with motors, canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and water safety equipment.

u The Outdoor Adventure Program takes you to many of the area's attractions, including Orlando, Cedar Key, Ybor City, and canoe trips. Also available through this program are scuba and lifeguard certification instruction sessions. Coming soon are a Go-Kart trip May 7 and a paintball trip May 21. Also, the first ever sky diving trip July 23.

u Raccoon Creek Pavilion is a screened-shaded building with tables, which make it the superb site for parties. Advance reservations, with a $25 refundable deposit are required.

u The RV Boat Storage has temporary and long-term wet slips and dry storage for boats. There are also 293 secure storage spaces available.

u The Skeet Range offers a wide variety of programs and services including Turkey Shoots, usually in February and November. Also, tournaments can be arranged by request.

"We can help you fill your stay with adventure, excitement and fun-- while keeping you healthy and fit at the same time!" said Lt. Colonel Omdal.

For more information about programs and events, contact the Outdoor and Recreation office at 813-840-6919 or on the web at www.macdillfss.com