Volk Field

Volk Field is not merely a point on an aviation map, but a vital air force hub in the very heart of Wisconsin, USA. Located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Camp Douglas, it serves as a primary base for the Air National Guard and plays a key role in military exercises. Despite its predominantly military status, the airport is also open to private and state aviation, representing a unique example of shared airspace infrastructure usage. For most tourists, it is more of an interesting landmark than a departure point, as regular commercial air service is absent here.

The main feature of Volk Field is its dual purpose. Primarily, it is an active military base and one of the country's leading centres for pilot training and complex aerial exercises. The airfield is equipped with a long runway capable of accommodating even the largest military transport aircraft. For ordinary travellers, it is important to understand that Volk Field does not function as a commercial airport. The nearest air hubs with regular passenger flights are located in the cities of Madison (MSN) and La Crosse (LSE) — these serve as the main gateways for those wishing to explore this picturesque region of central Wisconsin.

To contact representatives of Volk Field (VOK), located in the city of Camp Douglas, USA, you may use the following contact details. It is important to remember that this is primarily an active Air National Guard base, so some civilian services may be limited or operate on a special schedule.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information, news, and access rules can be found on the base's official website: www.volkfield.ang.af.mil.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries and information clarification, you can call the main base number: (608) 427-1224.
• Airport Address: 100 Independence Dr, Camp Douglas, WI 54618, USA.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general civilian inquiries is not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on the official website, if available.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the base's official Facebook page: Volk Field ANGB.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during a flight, you must immediately contact your airline's representative. For items left in the terminal building, please contact the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Since the airport is a military facility with limited civilian traffic, a dedicated passenger support service may not exist. For assistance with general questions, please use the main information phone number.

Before planning a trip to Volk Field, it is strongly recommended to clarify the current access rules for civilians and the operating hours of services via the indicated phone number or on the official website.

Getting to Volk Field (KVOK) from the centre of Camp Douglas is quite simple, primarily due to its close proximity. Since this is a small settlement in the USA, the main methods of transport are by road. The drive from the centre will take only 5-10 minutes.

Public transport to Volk Field is practically non-existent. Unlike major metropolises, there are no regular bus routes, trains, or metro lines here that directly connect the city to the terminal. Travellers relying on this option should research the schedules of the few regional buses that may pass through the vicinity in advance, though this is not the most reliable way to catch a flight.

Taxis and private transfers are a convenient and fast option. You can order a car from one of the local taxi services or book a transfer online in advance. This method is particularly convenient for those travelling with heavy luggage or those who do not plan to rent a car. The cost of the trip will be higher than driving a personal vehicle, but it ensures comfort and "door-to-door" delivery.

Car rental is the most popular and flexible solution for most tourists. Having a car provides complete freedom of movement not only within Camp Douglas but throughout the state of Wisconsin. By renting a car, you can comfortably explore national parks, lakes, and neighbouring cities. Car rental agencies are usually located both at the airport itself and nearby.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking is available. Options are usually available for both short-term parking (meeting or seeing off passengers) and long-term storage of the vehicle for the duration of your trip. It is recommended to arrive with a little extra time to calmly find a spot and walk to the terminal.

To summarise, the optimal choice of transport depends on your plans. For maximum independence and regional exploration, car rental is best. For a short and quick trip to the airport, a taxi will be convenient. It is also worth noting that for a greater choice of flights and destinations, travellers often use larger air hubs, such as Dane County Airport or La Crosse Airport, which can be reached by rented car.

Volk Field (VOK) possesses a unique structure that is directly linked to its primary purpose. It is important to note that this is primarily an active US Air National Guard base, and not a major hub for commercial passenger transport. This feature defines its entire internal organisation.

The airport does not have the traditional division into multiple passenger terminals. All operations for servicing the few flights (usually military or charter) are concentrated in one main building. Thanks to this, navigation through the airport territory is maximally simplified, and getting lost here is practically impossible. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same room or in immediate proximity, which eliminates the need for long walks.

Check-in procedures and security screenings are organised for specific flights and may differ from the standard rules adopted in civilian airports. The time required to pass through controls can vary significantly. The main recommendation for passengers is to clarify all details in advance with the flight organiser and strictly follow the instructions received, as standard information services and signage for the general public may be absent.

The history of Volk Field (VOK) is inextricably linked with the development of military aviation in the USA. Its journey began in 1927, when a summer training camp for the 105th Observation Squadron of the Wisconsin National Guard was founded on the territory of the modern city of Camp Douglas. Initially, the airfield was part of a larger facility called Camp Williams and served to hone the flying skills of pilots during peacetime.

With the outbreak of World War II, the role of the airfield changed radically. It was transformed into a major training centre specialising in the preparation of military transport aircraft crews. Thousands of pilots, navigators, and other specialists underwent training here before heading to various theatres of war. This period laid the foundation for Volk Field's reputation as a vital training facility.

A key milestone in its post-war history was the designation of the base as a permanent training site for the Air National Guard in 1954. In 1957, the airfield was officially renamed Volk Field. The new name was given in honour of Lieutenant Jerome A. Volk — the first Wisconsin National Guard pilot killed in combat during the Korean War. This act immortalised the memory of the hero and emphasised the base's military heritage.

In subsequent decades, Volk Field was constantly modernised, turning into one of the most advanced training complexes in the country. Today, it is equipped with modern systems for conducting realistic exercises and regularly hosts large-scale manoeuvres, such as "Northern Lightning". An interesting fact: despite its primary military status, Volk Field functions as a dual-use airport, servicing civil aviation as well, which makes it an important transport hub for the entire region.

When planning a trip through Volk Field (VOK), it is important to understand that this is primarily an active Air National Guard base, and not a standard commercial airport. Consequently, the range of services available to passengers differs significantly from what can be found in major civilian air hubs and is oriented mainly towards military and authorised personnel.

In the Volk Field terminal, you will not find the usual variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Catering and retail services here are minimal or non-existent for the general public. The same applies to VIP lounges or high-comfort waiting areas. Access to Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable charger.

Financial services, such as banks or currency exchange points, are not provided on the premises. Medical assistance is available within the military base infrastructure for personnel, but for emergency cases, one should contact the nearest civilian medical institutions. Specialised amenities for passengers with children, such as playrooms or mother-and-child rooms, are generally absent. However, buildings and structures comply with basic accessibility requirements for people of determination (persons with disabilities).

There are no hotels on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options can be found in the city of Camp Douglas and its surroundings. Conference rooms and business centres for public use are also not provided, as all administrative premises serve the needs of the military base. Travellers are advised to clarify all details related to their arrival or departure from Volk Field in advance with the relevant organisation coordinating the flight.

Travellers departing from Volk Field (VOK) must take its specific nature into account. It is, first and foremost, a base of the Air National Guard of the USA, and not a large commercial airport. In this regard, the choice of dining establishments for civilian passengers on its territory is practically non-existent, and the familiar infrastructure with restaurants and cafes is not present here.

Inside the airport building, you will not find a standard food court, lounges, or coffee shops. Catering services that may be available on the base are typically intended exclusively for military personnel and are not located in the public zone for passengers. Therefore, the best strategy is to eat before arriving at the airport or to bring beverages and light snacks with you to pass the time comfortably while waiting for your flight.

If you require a full lunch or dinner, it is worth considering establishments in nearby settlements. Directly in the town of Camp Douglas, as well as in larger neighbouring cities such as Tomah or Mauston, you can find various options — from restaurants serving American cuisine to fast-food chains where you can have a quick meal before travelling to the airport.

It is important to consider that Volk Field in Camp Douglas is an active National Guard military airfield, not a commercial civilian airport. It does not service regular passenger flights, so you cannot book tickets for departure or arrival directly to this airport. Standard check-in and baggage drop-off procedures are not conducted here.

Nevertheless, the area may be of interest to tourists thanks to the Wisconsin National Guard Museum located here. The exhibition features aircraft, helicopters, and artillery pieces that tell the history of the state's militia and guard. If you plan a visit, check the opening hours and access rules on the official website in advance, as entry to the military facility territory may require the presentation of identification.

For travel to this region of Wisconsin, it is recommended to use the nearest civilian airports. The most convenient option is La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE), located approximately 70-80 kilometres to the west. It receives flights from major hubs such as Chicago and Minneapolis. An alternative could be the larger Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison, located an hour and a half drive to the southeast.

Since public transport between the airports and Camp Douglas is poorly developed, the best solution for tourists is car rental immediately upon arrival in La Crosse or Madison. This will allow you to plan your time flexibly and comfortably reach the museum or the natural attractions of Juneau County.

When planning a trip to this region, especially during the winter period, always check the weather forecast. Wisconsin is known for its snowy winters, which can affect road conditions and flight schedules at neighbouring civilian airports. Allow extra time for travel if you are visiting from November to March.