Welcome to JBCAS Operations Center
Little Bear Lake - Base Perimeter Guidance
Joint Base Cabot Air Station (JBCAS) is proud to maintain a positive relationship with the local recreational community, including visitors to Little Bear Lake.
The lake’s north shore extends directly up to the secured southern perimeter of JBCAS.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy boating, fishing, and observing aircraft operations from the lake in designated areas, under the following guidance:
Boaters and visitors are asked to remain at least 10 feet back from the security fence line at all times to ensure operational safety and security.
Mooring or anchoring directly on the base perimeter is not permitted.
Visitors are encouraged to observe aircraft takeoffs, landings, and operations from a safe distance on the water or along designated viewing zones.
No photography of security fencing, personnel, or restricted areas is authorized; however, general photos of aircraft in flight are allowed.
Please respect all posted signs and instructions from base security or patrolling agencies.
Joint Base Cabot Air Station thanks the community for their continued respect and cooperation in maintaining the safety and integrity of operations while sharing the appreciation of aviation activities.
Little Bear Lake - Base Perimeter and Community Viewing Guidance
(Joint Base Cabot Air Station - JBCAS)
Joint Base Cabot Air Station (JBCAS) welcomes responsible recreational use of Little Bear Lake adjacent to our installation. Visitors and boaters are invited to enjoy observing aircraft operations under the following base guidelines:
Maintain a minimum 10-foot clearance from the base perimeter fence at all times.
Mooring or anchoring directly against the fence line is not permitted during normal operations.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy viewing aircraft takeoffs, landings, and taxi movements from safe waterborne positions or along permitted shoreline areas.
Photography of general aircraft operations is authorized; however, photography of security fencing, restricted facilities, or base personnel is strictly prohibited.
All visitors must obey posted signage and comply immediately with any instructions from JBCAS Security Forces or local law enforcement.
Special Policy During Annual Airshow (September Event Only)
During the Annual JBCAS Airshow (typically held in September), the following expanded guidance applies for Little Bear Lake visitors:
Mooring and anchoring are permitted in designated lake areas for airshow viewing.
Tailgating, camping, and extended lakefront gatherings are allowed during airshow days.
Visitors must continue to respect the base perimeter fencing — no direct contact with the fence or entry attempts are permitted.
JBCAS Security Forces will monitor the area to ensure safety while allowing for public enjoyment of the airshow festivities.
The base is proud to celebrate aviation with our surrounding community and looks forward to welcoming visitors for this special event.