A Longstanding Home for Airsoft in Big Lake
Big Lake Tactical Wargames (BLT) is located on a sprawling 100-acre property at 22615 County Road 75 in Big Lake, Minnesota. Established in 2009, this outdoor airsoft field has grown into a beloved destination for tactical gamers across the state, now celebrating its 17th season of operation. The field operates from March through December, with weekend hours from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, giving players a full day to immerse themselves in the action.
Game Types That Keep You Coming Back
BLT offers a wide variety of game types that cater to both casual walk-on players and hardcore tactical enthusiasts. Regular open play games are held on weekends, providing a relaxed environment for newcomers and veterans alike to enjoy the sport. The field is especially known for its monthly “Minnesota’s Best Airsoft” (MBA) Big Game series, which routinely draws over 100 players per event. These large-scale battles feature objective-based missions, vehicle integration, and immersive scenarios that transform the entire 100-acre property into a dynamic battlefield. The 2026 MBA schedule is already packed with creative and engaging themes. Players can look forward to Operation Spartan Shield, OP Fallout, Mexican Drug Wars, OP Thors Hammer, Viking Raid, OP Nightshade, the Big Fun Game, OP Warlords and Mercenaries, OP Battle Ax, Mexican Drug Wars 2.0 Border Raid, OP Raging Bull, and OP Bloody Bayonet. Each event brings its own unique flavor and tactical challenges, ensuring that no two game days feel the same.
The Arena: 100 Acres of Tactical Playground
The playing field at Big Lake Tactical is an expansive outdoor property that offers a mix of open terrain, wooded areas, and man-made structures. Vehicles are incorporated into the field layout to serve as cover and tactical objectives, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay. The sheer size of the property allows for large-scale maneuvers, flanking routes, and strategic positioning that smaller indoor fields simply cannot match. Whether you prefer close-quarters engagements or long-range skirmishes, the diverse landscape provides plenty of room for both. The field is designed to accommodate a wide range of playstyles, with natural and artificial barriers creating a labyrinth of tactical opportunities. Regular players appreciate the consistent quality of the field layout, while newcomers find it easy to navigate and enjoy from their very first visit.
Community, Camaraderie, and the Full Experience
What truly sets Big Lake Tactical apart is the strong sense of community that has been cultivated over nearly two decades. The field has a dedicated core of regular players who have been coming back year after year, and the atmosphere is consistently welcoming to newcomers. The MBA Big Game events go beyond just airsoft — they often include raffle prizes, a swap meet for buying, selling, and trading gear, and free camping on Friday and Saturday nights. This transforms a single day of gaming into a full weekend experience, where players can gather around campfires, share stories, and bond over their shared passion for the sport. The staff at BLT, including longtime organizer Travis and the admin team, are known for being knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested in making every player’s experience a great one. Rental equipment is available for those who do not own their own gear, making it easy for first-timers to step onto the field without a major upfront investment.
More Than Just a Game: Events and Gatherings
Big Lake Tactical is an excellent venue for a wide range of group events. It is well-suited for birthday parties, corporate team-building outings, bachelor parties, and friendly group gatherings where the focus is on shared adrenaline and teamwork. The open, outdoor setting and the variety of game formats mean that groups of all sizes and skill levels can find something that works for them. The field’s ability to host large events with over 150 players also makes it a prime location for organized club meetups and competitive tournaments. The free camping option during MBA weekends adds an extra layer of appeal for groups looking to make a full weekend out of their visit. After a long day of tactical gameplay, players can relax, eat, and socialize right on the property, making the experience feel more like a retreat than a simple day trip.
A Welcoming Environment for All Skill Levels
Whether you are a seasoned airsoft veteran or someone picking up a replica for the very first time, Big Lake Tactical offers an environment where everyone can feel comfortable. The staff takes safety seriously, with clear rules and guidelines in place, including full face mask requirements for players under 18 and strict limits on weapon choreographing. At the same time, the atmosphere remains relaxed and friendly, with regulars who are happy to show newcomers the ropes. The field’s long history and loyal player base speak to the quality of the experience — this is a place built by players, for players.
El Monte
