Tinker Air Force Base is an active Air Force installation near downtown Oklahoma City. The base hosts support services for military members and families. This page gives useful contacts and practical details about visiting, housing, medical care, schools, and recreation. Verify hours and access rules before you go.

Base Overview

Official name Tinker Air Force Base
Military branch United States Air Force
Base status Active
Street address Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma 73145
Main phone number 405-739-2747
Visitor Center phone 405-734-5191
Official website Tinker Air Force Base official website

Location and Directions

Tinker Air Force Base sits in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area about five miles southeast of downtown Oklahoma City. A main access point for visitors is at Interstate 40 and South Air Depot Boulevard near Tinker Gate.

Gate hours and the best route onto the installation can change. Use the base gate-hours page and gate map on the official site for current driving routes and operating hours before you travel.

Visitor Information

The Visitor Center/Pass and ID is at Interstate 40 and South Air Depot Boulevard and can be reached at 405-734-5191. Hours are Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; it is closed on federal holidays. Sponsored visitors age 18 and over may face a background check through the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and NCIC, and some gates are open 24 hours. Confirm current access rules before travelling.

Housing and Lodging

Privatized family housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities at 5601 Twining Drive (phone 405-610-3637). The housing referral office can be reached at 405-734-7350. There is no temporary lodging on base since the Indian Hills Inn closed; off-base hotels are used for temporary stays. A FamCamp operates year-round with hookups and a fishing pond (405-734-2847).

Facilities and Services

Service Contact / Info
Military & Family Readiness Center 6001 Arnold Street, 405-739-2747 (Mon–Fri)
Emergency Call 911; identify yourself as on Tinker AFB when using a cell phone on base
Law enforcement Base law enforcement desk 405-734-3737; security police 405-734-2000

The 72nd Air Base Wing provides installation support including transportation, lodging and housing support, medical care administration, MWR programs, legal and financial assistance, childcare and school liaison services, and chapel services.

Schools and Childcare

Tinker AFB is in the Mid-Del School District. On-installation residents are assigned to Tinker Elementary (PreK–5), Midwest City Middle School (6–8), and Midwest City High School (9–12); there are no schools located on the installation. The School Liaison is at 6001 Arnold Street (phone 405-734-3683). Three Child Development Centers care for ages six weeks–five years and a School Age Program supports ages 5–12; Family Child Care is available (405-734-7190). The Youth Center is at Building 5520 (405-734-7866).

Medical Services

Facility Contact / Hours Notes
72nd Medical Group 7050 Air Depot Boulevard, Bldg 1094; Appointments 405-734-2778 Mon–Fri 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; closed for training Wed 7:00–9:15 a.m.
Patient advocate 405-582-6201 Contact for care concerns
Major services Primary care, pediatrics, pharmacy, lab, imaging, dental, optometry, behavioral health and more

The 72nd Medical Group provides primary care, specialty clinics, and support services. Eligibility and access depend on beneficiary category and TRICARE enrollment, so contact the medical group or TRICARE before relying on specific services.

Recreation and Amenities

Tinker offers fitness centers, an 18-hole golf course, bowling alley, library, swimming pool, movie theater, picnic areas, Tinker Club, outdoor recreation, FamCamp, sports fields, and trails. Hours, eligibility, and reservations vary by facility; verify with each recreation office.

Things to Know

  • Tinker AFB is an active installation hosted by the 72nd Air Base Wing.
  • Installation access is controlled; contact Pass and ID and bring sponsorship information before you go.
  • Gate hours vary by gate and may change for holidays, security, or special events.
  • There is no temporary lodging on base; the Indian Hills Inn closed permanently on December 31, 2022.
  • School assignments depend on your home address; confirm with Mid-Del School District or the School Liaison.
  • Medical care availability depends on eligibility and TRICARE rules; contact the 72nd Medical Group for details.
  • Always confirm access rules and operating hours before traveling to the base.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a visitor pass?
Go to the Visitor Center/Pass and ID at I-40 and South Air Depot Boulevard (405-734-5191) during weekday hours. Weekend passes may be issued at gates. Sponsors and background checks may be required.
Is there on-base temporary lodging?
No. The Indian Hills Inn closed permanently. Off-base hotels are used for temporary lodging arrangements.
Is there on-base family housing?
Yes. Privatized housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities with two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes; contact the housing office for details.
Where do I get medical care on base?
The 72nd Medical Group at 7050 Air Depot Boulevard handles appointments (405-734-2778) and many outpatient services. Eligibility varies by TRICARE status.
Which gates are open 24 hours?
Tinker Gate, Hruskocy Gate, and Gott Gate are listed as open 24 hours. Other gates have limited schedules; verify current hours before travel.