Parks, Ponds & Picnics
There are a number of recreational areas on Fort Benning that offer a variety of amenities. To reserve a pavilion or gazebo, call 706-545-7978 or submit a request online here. Apply for a fishing permit and rent camping, boating, and outdoor recreation equipment of all kinds at Outdoor Recreation,
Building 1707 on Gillespie Street.
Russ Pond and Park
Historic Russ Pond, located on Main Post near McDonald Village, remains a popular recreation destination for Fort Benning families, just as it was in the early days of installation, when Russ Pool drew crowds from all across the Chattahoochee Valley. Back then, it was one of the area's most attractive and expansive swimming pools. Today, swimming is prohibited - but fishing is encouraged! Russ Pond is the site of our very popular Family Fishing Night, scheduled monthly during warmer weather. Though fishing in Russ Pond is reserved for children younger than 16, we expect they may need a little help from mom or dad. So plan your next family day at Russ Pond and pack a picnic! We have pavilions, rest rooms, picnic tables, benches, grills, a fireplace, sandbox, playgrounds, swings, disc golf, a fishing pier, walking trails and horeshoes. Click here for directions to Russ Pool/Pond.
Kings Pond
Kings Pond, near Harmony Church, is the only area on the installation where primitive camping is permitted free. No reservation is needed, except when MWR events are scheduled on site. It is the site of one of Outdoor Recreation's most popular activities, the Kings Pond Campout. This event is scheduled regularly during warm weather. It is free to military ID card holders and DoD civilian employees. The campout often includes music, games, boating and stories around the campfire. Kings Pond is also a favorite fishing spot, with plenty of bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie and sunfish. We have grills, fire pits, an open-air pavilion with seating for up to 32 (call ODR to reserve), a playground, rest rooms, primitive camping sites, fishing piers and a boat launch. Swimming is not permitted. Click here for directions to Kings Pond. Click image at right Kings Pond Campout dates.
Follow Me Fitness Trail
This rugged trail is a two-mile loop with a one-mile shortcut that weaves through a large wooded area on Main Post. The parking area and entrance are located on 1st Division Road near the Dixie Road intersection. The trail is equipped with eight fitness stations and 15 exercise challenges, great for running and walking. Please plan carefully to avoid being on the Follow Me Trail after dark. Click here for directions
Twilight Pond
With a 40' x 80' open-air pavilion and seating for 80+, Twilight Pond Recreation Area is the perfect place to schedule your next unit activity or party. Located near Kelley Hill, the Pond is easily accessible by dirt road. Though swimming is not permitted, an abundance of bass, bluegill, catfish and crappie makes Twilight ideal for fishing. Launch your boat on the ramp and catch your lunch, then cook it on one of the charcoal grills located around the Pond. Click here for directions to Twilight Pond.
Victory and Weems ponds
These ponds are great for bass, brim, catfish and crappie fishing. Victory Pond is frequently used for training Soldiers, so please be mindful and avoid this area when it is being used. Victory Pond is located near Harmony Church. Take Eighth Division Road past the Armor School area, and the pond will be on the right. To get to Weems Pond, take 8th Division to Jamestown Road, turn right and follow it for approximately 4.5 miles. The pond is on the left.
