“We cannot all do great things; We CAN all do small things with great love.”

Who We Are

The Outdoor Freedom Network (OFN) was established in 2007 by Terry and Connie Sympson at Jackson Hill Park and Marina.  OFN opened their doors to soldiers in medical transition suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. The first OFN program, Patriots Challenge, was established to create opportunities for Veterans in need, and their families, to recharge their healing and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Sam Rayburn in Deep East Texas. 

We discovered the amazing power that time in the outdoors and, in particular fishing, has for trauma and depression recovery.  The Patriots Challenge program is considered an important part of the healing process. Over time, we expanded to provide for those suffering from other forms of trauma and to offer them a chance to take a breath of fresh air, lose track of time, and reconnect with nature.

Washington Irving said it best: “There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind.”

News & Upcoming Events

Weaver and Kile win Patriots Challenge

George Weaver and Brian Kile put together a nice five fish limit of 20.08 lbs to top the field at February's Patriots Challenge bass fishing tournament. The team added a 5.88 lb kicker to put them over the top. Dean Perkins and David Huckabee placed second with 18.10...

Welcome to the new OFN website!

As you can see Outdoor Freedom Network has launched a new look. We hope it will be easier to move around and find what you're looking for. Updates are in progress and new content is still being added. If you are looking for something specific feel free to vist our...

Outdoor Freedom Network Programs

Outdoor Freedom Network has six programs focused on therapeutic time in the outdoors, and social good within the Lake Sam Rayburn communities of Deep East Texas

BRIGID’S WOOD