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Get Outside with Military Families Outdoors

The Military Families Outdoors (MFO) program helps active-duty military families embrace the great outdoors, from scenic parks to beautiful public lands and waterways. Our program promotes healthy habits while teaching families the importance of caring for the environment. Through a variety of in-person and online activities, military families can easily connect with nature, enhancing their physical, mental, and social well-being.

family canoeing at boundary waters

"I just wanted to thank you for putting together an amazing and memorable event yesterday on the island. I know you put a great deal of time and passion into it, and it showed. Thank you very much for organizing these events and for allowing the opportunity to make these types of memories with our families.”

- Colby

Topsail Island, Jacksonville, NC

"I am excited about this trip. I just made First Class rank and have collected some gear from Christmas, and with my birthday money. Will you let me know if I should bring any of my gear? I have so many lights (headlamps, flashlights, small handheld lamps, Lucite stake lights). What about my sleeping pad? Sleeping bag? Camping pillow? Day pack with hydration bladder? Or better just handheld water bottle? Hiking boots vs sneakers? or Both? My mom said there may be some swimming, should I bring water shoes too? Here in northern VA, ticks have become very prevalent. Should we treat all our boots, socks, and other gear prior to attending the trip? I am so excited!”

- Teague

Yellowstone National Park

"Even though I grew up in Minnesota, Northern Minnesota was a place I had never experienced. Thanks to a collaborative partnership between Wilderness Inquiry, National Park Service and Blue Star Families, our family along with two other military families were able to connect, reconnect and recharge with an indescribable 5 day/4 night canoe trip in Voyageurs National Park. The days are short but the memories will last a lifetime."

- Andie

Voyageurs National Park

“From my military career I have a lot of experience leading potentially hazardous expeditions on open water in small boats. I initially had a twinge of skepticism that I would learn anything from this younger generation of guides (who did not have military experience). I quickly saw their professionalism and knowledge. It was really cool seeing a younger generation with a completely different life story and set of experiences that led to the same appreciation and love for nature that I have. They were a joy to be around and to learn from.”

- Adam

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

“[We] realized our family thrives in the wilderness.”

- The Olson Family

Boundary Waters Canoe Area

“I’m so proud of the way my kids took on challenging hikes, and we all felt wowed by the beauty of our country. We feel inspired to travel more to new places!”

- Vanessa

Glacier National Park

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Embark on an Adventure with Wilderness Inquiry

Wilderness Inquiry connects people to nature through equitable outdoor learning, recreation, and adventure travel experiences. Military families can join Wilderness Inquiry for close-to-home or extended adventures to canoe, hike, camp, and explore the great outdoors together.

Find a National Parks Near You!

New to an area and want to get outside? Check out NPS's map to find a park near you. This interactive map shows which of NPS's 430 parks are most accessible to your installation.

Blue Star Connect Outdoors

In times of constant change, the outdoors offers stability and a space for health, wellness, and community building. Through recreational activities and stewardship, Blue Star Connect Outdoors creates opportunities for families to strengthen bonds, improve well-being, and cultivate a sense of belonging in an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Join The Neighborhood Outdoors Group

This online community is perfect for connecting with individuals who share your passion for nature, adventure, and getting outside! From picking camping spots along your PCS route to sharing your fishing gear knowledge, we want you to join us in celebrating the wonder of the great outdoors.

Explore & Unwind:
Adventures and Resources for Military Families

Learn more about our amazing programs, discover the beauty of the outdoors, and create unforgettable family memories!

Making Merry Memories This Holiday with a Family Holiday Hike

By Sheila Rupp Crunching leaves under my feet is my favorite soundtrack this time of year. Add in the smell of pine in the mountain air and it’s complete perfection. Many people think of hiking as a spring and summer activity, but fall and winter are my favorite times to hit the trail. The holiday…

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Unlock Outdoor Adventures: Explore the Features of the Military Families Outdoors Website!

Planning new outdoor adventures just got a whole lot easier for service-connected families! The brand-new Military Families Outdoors (MFO) website is packed with resources and information for all families, whether they are seasoned outdoor adventurers or they are just getting started. What is the Military Families Outdoors Program? Military Families Outdoors, administered by the Defense…

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A Spooktacular Night Under the Bats with Blue Star Connect Outdoors

Spooky season is upon us, making it the perfect time to get outdoors and learn about some of the creatures that often haunt our imaginations. Last week in San Antonio, Texas, Blue Star Connect Outdoors hosted a bat-viewing event at Bracken Cave Preserve, where participants had the chance to witness the largest bat colony in the United States take their nightly flight!

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Get Your Pass Here

Active duty military, Veteran, and Gold Star families are invited to our National Parks and with 430 parks across the country (100+ parks with military history) there is a park near you! They also enjoy special benefits, including a free America The Beautiful Pass, which can be obtained at most national parks that collect fees using a military ID.

Program Partners

Military Families Outdoors, administered by Defense Health Agency and the National Park Service, brings together the expertise of Blue Star Families, Wilderness Inquiry, YMCA of the USA, and The Center for Health & Nature to provide engaging outdoor wellness experiences for Service Members and military families across the country.