ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. - -- With an average of 300 days of flyable weather, open sky and a radius of nearly 10 miles of flat treeless land, Altus, Okla., is a perfect aircrew training environment. But what is there to offer for off-duty time?
Altus Air Force Base Outdoor Recreation is equipped with plenty of equipment and knowledge for Altus Airmen and their families to enjoy Southwest Oklahoma to the fullest.
“Outdoor Rec supports mission readiness through expertly managed programs and facilities delivering family and individual well-being, unit cohesion, and fitness,” said Jon Whatcott, 97th Force Support Squadron assistant outdoor manager. “Altus ODR includes base parks, archery range, paintball field, FamCamp, base swimming pool, RV storage facility, equipment rentals, Quartz Mountain primitive campground and trailers, auto skills center, and equipment support for most Wing and unit level special events.”
Recognizing the multitude of outdoor activities in the area, ODR is using that to the advantage of Altus Airmen.
“We are postured to support and in most cases enhance this experience for our Airmen and their families,” said Whatcott. “Each assignment has its positives and ODR is one of them in Altus. We are surrounded by the beautiful Wichita Mountains, Quartz Mountains, multiple lakes, incredible fishing and hunting, boating, hiking and camping.”
To fully enjoy what Altus is surrounded by, ODR has plenty of equipment for Airmen.
“We have a fairly awesome inventory of both large and small ODR centric equipment available,” said Whatcott. “We have pontoon boats, bass trackers, small and large campers, multiple bounce castles, canopies, camping equipment, grills, tents, tables and chairs and even yard equipment.”
But it’s not all about surrounding area attractions.
With May being bike month ODR is offering free bike rentals and the base pool will be opening May, 28, said Whatcott. “We also have a rafting excursion scheduled for May 22 in the Oklahoma City Boathouse district.”
For Airmen and their families new to Altus or for those just looking for some fun, ODR has some suggestions.
“Immediately sign up for one of our ‘Recharge for Resiliency’ programs, camping or boating at Lake Altus, hiking in the Wichita Mountains or visit our one-of-a-kind swimming pool,” said Whatcott. “Get out, take a deep breath and take in the Southwest Oklahoma air!”
Another popular and beneficial resource ODR has to offer is the Auto Hobby Shop. This facility has the tools and equipment Airmen need to keep the vehicles well maintained. Training is also available for use of any tool or lift.
“We are passionate about what we provide and our effect on quality of life,” said Whatcott. “Please take the time to check us out, stop by and ask questions, play with our equipment, relax and recharge, then go back to work ready to take your game to the next level.”
For more information on Altus AFB Outdoor Rec, call (580) 481 7696 or visit www.altusfss.com