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If you just moved to your new duty station at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, you might be looking for some things to do without having to leave the base! Here are some places that we were able to spend a bit of time at during our 6.5 years there that I would recommend, including several free options!
1. Geronimo’s Grave
Probably one of the most visited historical sites on base is where the Apache Leader and medicine man, Geronimo, is buried. Geronimo was known for his bravery and persistence in leading his people during the mid to late 1800s. His gravesite can be found in an Apache POW cemetery on Fort Sill base.
2. Bowling at Twin Oaks Bowling Center
Looking for a perfect date night or family fun evening? The Twin Oaks Bowling Center off Macomb Road was an absolute favorite! They have pizza, drinks, and amaaazing mozzarella sticks. I’m terrible at bowling (que the story of my dad telling me to go into the aisle and push my stuck ball, which inevitably ended up with me falling RIGHT on my bum), but the vibe there is such a great time! Go as a date, family, or invite some friends and make it a party!
3. Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area (LETRA)
Another great place to go is LETRA! Their hours, pricing, and offerings vary depending on season and when you go, so I definitely recommend finding out the latest details on their web page or calling beforehand. This was actually where Barron and I had our first camping trip! (I was definitely so scared the entire night I couldn’t sleep, but hey adventure nonetheless).
Some things you can do there are:
- biking
- camping (tent or RV)
- hiking
- kayaking
- swimming
- picnics
- playgrounds
4. Jack Daniel’s Lounge at the Patriot Club
Ah yes, the old Patriot Club. Barron and I spent quite a few evenings here when we needed to get out of the house, meet some friends for a quick one (or three) drinks, or had a craving for some mozzarella sticks and chicken tenders. (Yes another mozzy stick recommendation don’t judge me). It also helped that it was just a 6 minute walk from our apartment, so that always alleviated stress about who was driving if we had too much to drink (or in my case, eat). For those who don’t live 6 minutes away, I’ve heard the bartender will also call you a free cab if you let them know.
This is also an event venue, so if you are also looking to plan a wedding, ball, or get together this is definitely a great option to consider!
5. Medicine Bluffs at Medicine Bluff Creek
This is probably my favorite place not just at Fort Sill, but in Oklahoma. The Bluffs are a jaw dropping cliffside that I may or may not have done several photoshoots at. It’s history is also incredibly interesting, albeit dark. The story goes that when Native Americans lived on Fort Sill, that they would “heal” their sick and elderly by having them jump/ throw/ push themselves off the cliff into the creek below. Hence the “medicine” to the bluffs.
There is, however, a historical marker at the bottom of the cliff if you would like a more precise history.
6. Fort Sill Golf Course
I’ll be honest, this is the only item on this list I’ve never done. I have ~walked~ on the golf course before, but I’ve never participated in the actual sport in my life (except for glow in the dark put put). However! The Fort Sill Golf Course was right next to my house/ across the street from the Patriot Club/ on my running route and there were ALWAYS people on it. Like, to the point I have no idea what a group of 6 dudes do for a living to be able to golf in the middle of a Tuesday morning at 10 am.
I’ve also heard that there is a restaurant/ area to get drinks there, but again never got the chance to check it out (Barron I think did a few times, though, if that increases credibility for this recommendation).
7. Martha Songbird Trail
Another winner right next to our apartment was the Martha Songbird Trail on base. Located diagonally from the Patriot Club and in between Honeycutt Gym and the golf course, this area has a great central location, including being right next to several barracks (if you guys read blogs too lol).
This was my favorite trail to take my son, Arthur, on as it was the only place we found in this part of Oklahoma that had trees, and I mean real trees, not giant shrubs (no offense, OK). In the spring everything is so green and lush, and in the fall the leaves changing is something from a dream. I will caution that in the deep summer the mosquitos are SO bad, along with lots of overgrowth, and it naturally doesn’t look as pretty in the winter when the leaves change.
Still, one of my absolute favorites just because it was the closest I could get to my home state Mississippi’s ecosystem!
8. Air Defense Artillery Training Support Facility
The new Air Defense Artillery Training Support Facility (try saying that three times) is unlike anywhere else I’ve been. Barron was able to snag us a private tour when my parents came to visit once, and I was honestly super impressed, and I don’t even work with anything remotely related to artillery. It’s not technically open to the public, but if it’s something you or someone you know is super interested in I would definitely ask around or call the number on their web page to see if you can have a tour arranged!
Fun fact, if you are a gamer and have ever played Battlefield V, they have flaks.
9. Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum
This is more or less referring to the ~entire~ base of Fort Sill, but specifically the museum that is set up in the Old Post Quad located near Key Gate. In some of the buildings, there are exhibits that display what the old barracks and dining hall would look like when they were in use back in the day. It’s perfect for just a quick walk to make the loop and look at some of the houses that surround it!
10. Several Gym Options
I personally am not a huge gym goer unless I have to be, but Fort Sill has several options when it comes to gyms which definitely helps find one just for you. All of the gyms are free for Active Duty and spouses, and each one has pros and cons. I’d recommend trying them all out to see what works best for you and your needs!
They are:
- Fires Fitness Center – has a family fitness room, sauna, lots of equipment and class options. The busiest gym by far, but for good reason with all of the options they have
- Honeycutt Fitness Center – was literally, again, right next to our house (which was the biggest perk). Limited equipment and space, but was great for our needs. They were closed for a LONG time around the time we were moving, so would definitely check their hours.*
- Rinehart Fitness Center– best thing they have is their indoor pool, which is amazing when you want to switch up your workout. I did find their workout rooms a little too claustrophobic for my tastes, though, if that is a consideration for you
- Goldner Fitness Center – I’ve never done crossfit, but I think this gym is set up to be more of that kind of approach to fitness. From their page they have an alpha warrior rig, lifting platforms with bumpers, rowers, assault bikes, plyo boxes, and salmon ladder trainer. If any of that means anything to you, then it would be worth a shot!*
*When we were stationed at Fort Sill, Honeycutt and Goldner both offered unmanned access for active duty during off hours where you can go anytime except between 12am-4am. Something to look into if you need a little more flexibility with your schedule!
11. MWR Events
If you haven’t noticed yet, most of the links here are from the Fort Sill MWR website. They are a great resource for pretty much anything happening on base. More often than not, they can at least lead you in the right direction. MWR hosts events year round and is a great way to get connected to the area.
Some helpful links:
12. Outdoor Activities
Maybe this one doesn’t need to be on here, but if you are ever drawing a blank on what to do on base don’t underestimate the simple going outside! Fort Sill has an abundance of opportunities to bike, hike, swim, fishing & hunting (with proper permits), outdoor courts, and more! It truly is a beautiful place with a multitude of options to get fresh air and explore.
Did I miss anything? Feel free to add a comment of your favorite places on base!
Things to do on base at Fort Sill, Oklahoma
