JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson updated the installation recreational access policy at the end of 2023. People who wish to recreate on JBER inside the cantonment area as well as the training areas north of the Glenn Highway now need a Department of Defense identification card, or to be escorted by a person possessing a DOD ID in addition to a RecAccess pass.
“We want people to get out and enjoy nature,” said Kylene Lang, Environmental Conservation chief. “And we want to help recreators access the installation in a safe and secure way.”
Training areas south of the Glenn Highway remain open for recreational purposes to the public without a base access credential, but do require a RecAccess permit.
As before, recreational kayaking, rafting, or floating of Eagle River or Ship Creek onto JBER remains unauthorized, except through 773d Force Support Squadron Outdoor Adventure Program rafting trips.
Those attending DoD-sponsored recreation or conservation events or activities may obtain a base access credential for the duration of the activity; these are valid only for the area of the activity and travel to and from the site. Access for these will be coordinated between the sponsoring agency and 673d Security Forces Squadron.
Hunters will also need to get installation access.
“Individuals who have drawn Alaska state big game permits in a training area north of the Glenn Highway will be sponsored by the JBER Natural Resources Office,” said Cayley Elsik, hunt program coordinator with the Natural Resources Office. “Hunters will need to coordinate with the office for access to the hunting area prescribed on their draw permit.”
Draw winners will receive a letter from JBER describing requirements for hunting on the installation, which include orientation and a weapons proficiency test.
“This won't be a surprise to anyone,” she said. “When people come for the orientation, we will go through the base access requirements.”
These hunters will be granted unescorted access for the duration of their hunt after obtaining a base access credential.
Everyone requesting base access is subject to criminal history vetting and a positive determination for entry to JBER. Anyone recreating in training areas on JBER must continue to register and check in and out of the training areas on the RecAccess website at https://jber.recaccess.com, and must always have a physical or digital copy of their pass with them.
If you have questions about the change, contact the 673rd SFS Base Access section at (907) 552-4029. See the JBER official memo here.