Rock Island Arsenal, Ill. –
Anyone thinking about visiting Rock Island Arsenal but may wonder what there is to do? Well, there is plenty of amusing activities for a family!
First Army has many military families that live on or around the Arsenal, and new developments are meant bring more quality to the lives of the soldiers, civilians, and families.
The Outdoor Recreation Center has a campground, located towards the back of the Arsenal, for families looking for a safe place to camp out and build a fire. They have showers and grills as well.
Also, open now is the driving range. “Driving range” is a golf term for “practice field” for golfers. Since it’s opening, people have been loving it. Staff Sgt. Jaycob Weber says “I usually have to go out the way to practice. But the driving range has made it really convenient.”
One token costs $5 which gets 35 golf balls, and two tokens gets 70 balls. Don’t have clubs, no worries, club rentals are available at Outdoor Recreation. A deposit is required but it is refunded.
The golf course and clubhouse are scheduled to open next year.
Recreation specialist, Anna Winters, holds events for children and young adults. Winters says, “On July 28, there will be a ‘Sip and Plant’ for adults interested in painting while having a drink. One drink will be provided with given supplies. This event is $35 a person.” Outdoor Recreation hopes to have these events bi-monthly.
The Splash Pad and Dog Park are now open for business.
The Splash Pad has 10 features including a bobble, loop, jet stream, and twin splash. The children have over 900 feet to get wet and play.
Nearby, the Dog Park has two sections, one for big dogs and the other for small. The dogs have to be leashed until they are in the park. Toys are welcome but the owner will be reliable for any accidents. The park also has benches for owners to rest while the dogs play.
These two attractions are close by each other along with the pavilions. The sites welcome children and family. All can be reserved through Outdoor Recreation for special events.