Members of the military are subject to becoming moving experts. After all, consistent packing-up-and-moving-along is a large part of the military experience. One thing to consider when making those duty station requests is the family-friendliness of the area you’re moving to—and although every base offers a number of activities and options, some strive harder than others in regards to being family-oriented. How are the schools? What would the surrounding area of your new installation provide for every member of your family? What kind of memories can you make together here? The choice of where you move might not always be yours to make, but you can always choose to have a grand adventure wherever you go. 

CONUS (Installations Within the United States)

Naval Base San Diego - California

Mobile Bay departing from San Diego Naval Base / Photo by US Navy / CC)

Naval Base San Diego is located in gorgeous sunny California, and is one of the largest Naval bases in the world. This area is fully-loaded with things to see and do as a family, and offers some wonderful options for the outdoor enthusiasts in the family. Hiking, biking, and camping are popular choices for weekend activities here, but it also offers great play groups, parenting classes, and more through the on-base residential community. With excellent weather in the area, it’ll be hard to decide how to spend your time.

Fort Hood - Texas

Military Crossing Guard helping students safely cross the street / Courtesy of Us Army

Fort Hood, located 70 miles north of Austin, is a relatively large Army installation, as it serves as a basic training facility in addition to various other trainings. The size of the post shouldn’t fool you, though. Housing here is varied, and offers great resident programming and child-friendly events. Off-base housing options are plentiful, too, as Texas’ real estate market is widely known for offering larger homes for less money. The surrounding community boasts activities for outdoor and indoor enthusiasts alike, and children will likely find this to be one of their favorite moves.

Eglin Air Force Base - Florida

Lakeside sunset at Eglin Air Force Base / Shutterstock

Another southern location for a different branch is the Eglin Air Force Base. Airmen and their families enjoy the amenities at Eglin Air Force Base—with the occasional Army attachment being stationed here, too. On top of being located in gorgeous Florida, there is no shortage of options for families in any season of life. Eglin and the surrounding area offer great opportunities for play at this base, including a nearby zoo, white sand beach, and memorable day trip destinations.

OCONUS (Installations not Within the Contintental United States)

Joint Base Elmendorf - Alaska

Joint Base Elmendorf in Aurora, Alaska / Courtesy of Joint-Base Elmedorf

Although this is still in the United States, the military considers only the contiguous 48 (often called the “Lower 48” by those in Alaska) as stateside duty stations. The plus side to this? You’ll receive cost of living overseas (COLA) if you find yourself here. Gorgeous scenery, grandiose mountains, and interesting wildlife await you here in The Last Frontier. Twenty-four hours of daylight make for extended playtime (or early bedtime—totally up to you) at this Air Force/Army combination base, and will give your family the opportunity to experience once-in-a-lifetime fishing, camping, and more.