The great outdoors is closer than you think, right here at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). There are many fun, low-cost facilities and things to do, some even free.

Freedom Park.  Located on the Fort Lewis side of the base.  Freedom Park has a seasonal, splash park for the little ones and a state-of-the-art playground which is wheelchair accessible to include the swings.  Pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic area or purchase food from the nearby food trucks that are open on weekdays. Older kids are sure to enjoy the Skate Plaza for skateboarding or trick biking.

Paintball and Off-Road Vehicles.  For the more adventurous, the North Fort hosts two great options.  Paintball, Inc. runs a field at completive rates with rental equipment and paintballs available. The team also offers birthday parties and run the kids through some fun paintball games and scenarios. The Off-Road Vehicle park is available to run your own ATV or bike or you can rent ATVs by the hour.

Golf.  JBLM has two golf courses.  The Eagle's Pride Golf Course is located off-post just south of DuPont and open to the public.  It is considered one of the best courses in western Washington. During the summer it has a 27-hole course and in the winter, 18 holes.  There is a pro shop and a Samuel Adams Brewhouse opening soon.  Whispering Firs Golf Course is an 18-hole course located on McChord Field. It is open to active-duty personnel, retired military, reservists, DoD employees working at JBLM, retired DoD civilians, and their respective dependents. The clubhouse hosts a Habanero Mexican Grill as well as a pro shop for all your golfing needs.

American Lake.  Enjoy a day on American Lake at two facilities on North Fort.  Russell's Landing is your full service lakeside marina.  Moorage slips are available if you own a boat.  A wide variety of watercraft, including jet skis, are available for rent.  The marina store sells snacks and everything you need to spend the day fishing. If swimming is more your speed, head over to Shoreline Park.  The sandy beach has lifeguards on duty. There are pavilions to rent as well as picnic tables with grills on a first-come basis.  Kids will enjoy the playgrounds at both locations.  Shoreline Park overlooks what is known as Little American Lake with a no-wake zone.  Non-motorized watercraft are available to rent.

Outdoor Recreation.  Adventures Unlimited at McChord Field and the Northwest Adventure Center on Lewis North are hubs for everything outdoors.  Rental equipment is available for camping, skiing and scuba diving.  Adventure and photography trips can get you outdoors with like-minded folks. There are even trips scheduled for just women.  The Alpine Club can help you train to climb Mt. Rainier.  Ever wanted to learn to sea kayak? Take the class and get comfortable in the pool before venturing out.  Both locations have information on all the trips and classes available.  Each also has a store selling the latest in adventure gear and clothing.

For more information on all MWR has to offer, pick up a copy of the monthly Focus magazine.  An MWR publication, it is filled with all kinds of great ideas on things to do at JBLM.  You can pick up a copy at Outdoor Recreation locations and AAFES businesses.  The JBLM MWR website has all the current hours and prices for the above listed recreation opportunities: jblmmwr.com.  The website also has a link to all of the MWR social media sites and you can see more photos of outdoor activities.