Our Story
We're just a group of family and friends who proudly share our passion for water sports with the families of our nation's heroes. Our mission is to create unforgettable lake day experiences that offer a break from daily challenges and a chance to reconnect. Through the calming power of water and the excitement of wake surfing, we provide moments of healing, joy, and togetherness. These lake days are more than just fun, they are a heartfelt thank you to the families who sacrifice so much in support of the troops defending our country. Join us in creating memorable moments that last a lifetime.
What We Do
So, what should you expect when you join Barefoot Wakes for a surf session? Family trips are a five hour surf lesson for up to five people per boat and we provide almost everything you need! Just pack up your family and some bathing suits. There's a full schedule and information packet available after your trip is booked, but here's a little bit of what we provide:
Customized Surf Lessons
No group classes here! Our wakesurf lessons are tailored to each rider’s age, ability, and boldness. Whether it’s your first time catching a wave or you’re a seasoned shredder, our instructors are there to guide you every splash of the way. We teach kiddos ages 8 and up, no prior experience needed, just a love for adventure! It's the perfect mix of laughs, thrills, and unforgettable family bonding.
Boat Snacks & Meals
Let’s be honest.
Boat snacks just hit different, and we take snacking seriously! Our boat comes fully stocked with a tasty mix of go-to goodies and your family’s favorites. After hours of sun and surfing, we’ll wrap up your adventure with a well-earned meal, either lakeside with our Grand Lake restaurant partners or prepared by Barefoot Wake’s own culinary crew (we have some epic kitchen queens!). No one leaves the lake hungry, or without a few snacks for the road.
Surf Boards & Gear
We’ve all top tier here, only the best gear for the best rides. From Phase Five surfboards to O'Neil life jackets and pro-level ropes, we’ve outfitted surfers of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels. Safety always comes first, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look good while catching a wave. We'll make sure each member of the fam is fitted with everything they need for a safe and stylish surf session.
Sunscreen & More
The only thing you need to bring is your swimsuit (the kind that stays on during a wipeout!), shades, and a sense of humor. We handle the rest. Sunscreen, towels, bug spray, a stocked first aid kit, and more. You name it, we’ve thought of it! We’ll send you a pre-surf checklist to make sure your family is 100% lake-ready, stress-free, and set for epic memories.
Luxury Wakesurf Boat & Captain
Hop aboard the Super Air Nautique G25,
a floating dream machine designed for big air and even bigger fun. With a spacious lounge to kick back and cheer each other on, this boat blends luxury and high performance like no other. Your private captain (with over 20 years of experience!) knows exactly how to fine-tune the waves so whether you're just learning or leveling up, your wave is pure perfection.
Special Occasions
Celebrating is our thing! Are you honoring a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or a loved one returning from deployment?
We turn milestones into magical moments on the water. Let us know about any life events when booking your trip and we’ll add personalized touches, from custom playlists and decor, to sweet treats and celebration swag. Let's make sure your big day becomes an unforgettable splash bash.
Nominate a Family
Our 2025 surf season is fully booked!
For information on nominating a family for 2026, submit your contact info and we will reach out when the application opens.
Surf Session Stories
Meet our wakesurf families.
Y’all definitely made great memories for my kids and I really appreciate that.
Jonathon Stankavich - Air Force Crew Chief
A day full of laughter. Thank you!
David, National Guard
Meet the Barefoot Team
Our all-volunteer team of coaches, captains, hospitality, and trip coordinators lives on Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
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While many great programs help service members transition back to civilian life, we focus on the unsung heroes: the spouses, kids, and families who serve and sacrifice right alongside them. That’s where Barefoot Wakes shines.
Military families face unique challenges, long separations, frequent moves, and the emotional toll of deployments, injuries, and blended family life. The numbers are sobering. Military divorce rates are nearly double the national average, and over two million kids have had a parent deploy since 9/11. These families carry a heavy load, often quietly.
We’ve seen firsthand the power of time spent on the water. Something about lake life opens people up, brings them together, and helps them heal. Our mission is to create meaningful experiences for military families. Fathers and kids, step-siblings, or remarried spouses by giving them time to reconnect, laugh, and try something new together. Whether it’s wakesurfing, tubing, or just relaxing on the dock, we’re here to help build strong bonds and lasting memories.
Barefoot Wakes was founded by two families who know what it’s like to navigate single parenthood and blended family life. Raised in families led by those who served, our founders know first hand the pride and the challenges that come with being part of a military family. With backgrounds in education, child development, nonprofit leadership, and a shared love of the lake, we bring both heart and expertise to everything we do. It’s also a family effort. Our own adult kids help lead the charge, passing along their passion and giving back.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just the service member who serves, it’s the whole family. And we’re here to honor them all.
Our Why
This isn't charity, it's gratitude.
Family Impact
U.S. military member divorce rate is almost twice the national average.
- US Census Bureau
More than 2 million kids have had a parent deployed since 9/11.
Healing
"Water-based therapy can lower cortisol levels reducing stress and anxiety by up to 30% after just one session."
- US VETERANS AFFAIRS
Vacations
For a family of 4 the average 3-day vacation cost is $7,249.
- New York Times
We offer families a vacation experience without the expense.
Give Connection & Renewal to a Military Family
Your gift helps create an unforgettable lake day for the families of active-duty service members, National Guard, and veterans. For families who have faced the weight of long separations, transitions, and sacrifice, a day on the water offers more than just fun, it’s a chance to breathe, reconnect, and heal together.
A donation of $2,500 sponsors an entire lake day for one family, but any amount helps bring comfort, renewal, and lasting memories to those who have sacrificed so much.
Every dollar donated is a heartfelt “thank you for your service” and whether it's the thrill of catching their first wave or the quiet moments spent side by side, these experiences remind military families they are seen, supported, and deeply appreciated.
Thank you for standing with us to honor the family behind the uniform.
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