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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.

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“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

"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

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

- The Olson Family

Boundary Waters Canoe Area

“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

"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

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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!

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Outdoor Reflections
Park Info
Family Activity
Explore Outside

Embracing the Adventure: Our Family’s PCS Journey and the Road Ahead to National Parks

When our family received orders for a PCS move from the East Coast to the Southwest, we knew it would be an adventure. Little did we know just how true that would be. Our journey started with excitement and a hint of nostalgia as we packed up our lives and hit the road in our faithful red truck, “Victory,” towing our flatbed car trailer and carrying our dreams.

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A Day of Coastal Discovery at Boneyard Beach

Our weekend camping trip took an exciting turn when strong winds led us to explore the stunning Boneyard Beach at Big Talbot Island State Park instead. After a fun lunch with the Wilderness Inquiry crew, we ventured along the beach, spotting wildlife and even identifying some insects with the kids. Families embraced their adventurous sides, climbing the massive driftwood trees scattered along the shore — a perfect opportunity for some memorable photos!

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Making Merry Memories This Holiday with a Family Holiday Hike

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 season is one of the most magical times of the year, filled with family gatherings, traditions, and, of course, delicious food! But as lovely as these moments can be, they sometimes

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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.