Fort Irwin Comprehensive Guide
Jump to Your Section
Fort Irwin Housing Guide
Whether you’re looking for on-base housing or prefer living off-base, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of your options, VA loan benefits, and the best neighborhoods near Fort Irwin.
On-Base Housing Options
Fort Irwin offers on-base housing through The Villages at Fort Irwin, providing a range of housing choices for service members of different ranks. Living on base offers several benefits, such as proximity to work, access to base amenities, and a strong sense of community.
On-Base Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Home Type | Features | Pricing (Approximate) |
|---|
| Sandy Basin | Duplexes & Single-Family | Close to schools and parks, playgrounds, family-friendly | $1,200 – $1,800/month |
| Bitter Springs | Single-Family Homes | Larger homes with spacious yards, quiet environment | $1,600 – $2,100/month |
| Tiefort View | Single-Family Homes | Scenic desert views, modern homes, near community parks | $1,800 – $2,200/month |
| Coyote Springs | Single-Family Homes | Larger homes, proximity to schools, playgrounds, and amenities | $2,100 – $2,500/month |
| Santa Fe | Single-Family Homes | Premium homes with added privacy, spacious layouts | $2,500 – $3,000/month |
Living on base includes utilities such as water, electricity, and gas, as well as access to community events and services. For more information about applying for on-base housing, visit Corvias at Fort Irwin.
Best Off-Base Neighborhoods for Veterans
While Fort Irwin is located in a remote part of the Mojave Desert, there are nearby communities that provide a variety of off-base housing options. The closest town, Barstow, along with surrounding areas, offers affordable homes for rent or purchase, making it an attractive option for military families.
Popular Off-Base Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Average Home Price | Overview | Key Benefits |
|---|
| Barstow | $230,000 | Closest town to Fort Irwin, offering affordable housing | Short commute to base, local amenities, schools |
| Lenwood | $200,000 | A quiet suburb just outside of Barstow | Affordable homes, small-town feel, easy access to Barstow |
| Silver Lakes | $300,000 | A planned community with lakes and parks | Recreational amenities, scenic views, family-friendly |
| Hinkley | $180,000 | Rural community known for large lots and peaceful living | Affordable, larger properties, quiet environment |
Off-Base Rental Options
For those looking to rent, the nearby towns of Barstow and Silver Lakes offer affordable rental options. Below are some common rental prices for 1- and 2-bedroom units in the area.
| Rental Location | 1-Bedroom Price | 2-Bedroom Price | Key Features |
|---|
| Barstow Apartments | $900/month | $1,200/month | Close to shopping, pet-friendly |
| Silver Lakes Townhomes | $1,200/month | $1,500/month | Access to parks and lakes, family-friendly |
| Lenwood Apartments | $850/month | $1,100/month | Quiet area, affordable rent |
| Hinkley Homes | $1,000/month | $1,300/month | Large lots, peaceful rural living |
Temporary Lodging Options
If you’re waiting for on-base housing or need temporary accommodations, Fort Irwin offers the Landmark Inn, an on-base hotel for short-term stays. There are also several options for temporary lodging in nearby Barstow, including budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.
Temporary Lodging Overview
| Lodging Option | Location | Price Range per Night | Key Features |
|---|
| Landmark Inn | On base | $100 – $150 per night | Pet-friendly, convenient on-base location |
| Best Western | Barstow, CA | $80 – $120 per night | Affordable, located near shops and dining |
| Airbnb Rentals | Barstow, CA | $90 – $130 per night | Fully furnished homes, flexible stays |
Local Housing Market Overview
Understanding the housing market near Fort Irwin is essential for making informed decisions. Whether you’re buying or renting, each area offers unique benefits and housing options.
Current Market Trends
| Trend | Description |
|---|
| Affordable Rural Housing | Towns like Hinkley and Lenwood offer lower housing prices compared to other parts of California. |
| Competitive Market in Barstow | Barstow’s proximity to Fort Irwin makes it a popular choice, leading to a competitive rental market. |
| New Developments in Silver Lakes | Silver Lakes continues to grow with new homes and amenities, attracting military families seeking suburban living. |
| Increased Demand for Rentals | Rental properties near Fort Irwin, especially in Barstow, are in high demand, particularly for short-term leases. |
Understanding VA Loans
For military families looking to buy a home near Fort Irwin, VA loans offer numerous benefits that can make homeownership more accessible and affordable.
Key Benefits of VA Loans
| Benefit | Description |
|---|
| No Down Payment Required | VA loans allow veterans to buy a home without needing a down payment. |
| Lower Interest Rates | VA loans offer competitive interest rates compared to conventional loans, reducing monthly payments. |
| No Private Mortgage Insurance | VA loans do not require PMI, saving veterans money on their monthly mortgage payments. |
| Flexible Credit Requirements | Veterans with less-than-perfect credit may still qualify for a VA loan. |
| Limited Closing Costs | The VA limits closing costs, reducing the financial burden for veterans. |
Steps to Secure a VA Loan
| Step | Description |
|---|
| Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | Verify your eligibility for a VA loan through the VA website or a VA-approved lender. |
| Choose a VA-Approved Lender | Work with a lender experienced in handling VA loans to guide you through the process. |
| Get Preapproved | Preapproval helps you understand your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. |
| Start House Hunting | Work with a real estate agent to find a home that fits your needs and budget. |
| Complete the Purchase | Finalize the deal by negotiating terms, completing inspections, and closing with the help of your lender. |
Community and Lifestyle
Despite its remote location, the Fort Irwin area offers access to amenities, recreational activities, and a supportive community for military families.
Local Amenities and Attractions
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Shopping and Dining | Barstow offers local dining options, grocery stores, and shopping centers, including the Barstow Outlet. |
| Recreation and Outdoor Activities | Explore the Mojave National Preserve, or visit nearby Silver Lakes for fishing, boating, and golf. |
| Historical Sites | Visit Calico Ghost Town or Route 66 Museum in Barstow to explore local history. |
Educational Opportunities
| School | Type | Location | Grades |
|---|
| Lewis Elementary School | Public | On base | K-5 |
| Fort Irwin Middle School | Public | On base | 6-8 |
| Barstow High School | Public | Barstow, CA | 9-12 |
Veteran Support Services
For veterans and their families, Fort Irwin and nearby Barstow offer a variety of support services.
| Service | Contact Information |
|---|
| Barstow Veterans Home | 100 Veterans Parkway, Barstow, CA 92311 |
| San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs | 255 North D St, San Bernardino, CA 92415 |
| American Legion Post 751 | 2181 Armory Rd, Barstow, CA 92311 |
Back to Top
Things to Do Near Fort Irwin
This guide highlights various activities, attractions, and services specifically tailored to veterans, ensuring you can make the most of your time near Fort Irwin. From outdoor adventures to community events, you’ll find valuable information to enrich your experience.
Outdoor Activities
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| Rainbow Basin Natural Area | Scenic geological formations perfect for hiking and photography. | Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Mojave River Valley Museum | Museum dedicated to the cultural history of the Mojave Desert. | 270 E Virginia Way, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Calico Ghost Town | Historic silver mining town offering tours and reenactments. | 36600 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA 92398 | Discounts available for veterans |
| Barstow Harvey House | Historical train depot turned museum and visitor center. | 681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Daggett Pioneer Cemetery | Historical cemetery near the Mojave River, a quiet spot to reflect. | Daggett, CA 92327 | No discount listed |
Family-Friendly Activities
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| Mojave River Valley Museum | A small museum showcasing the history of the Mojave Desert and surrounding areas. | 270 E Virginia Way, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Barstow Community Park | A local park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. | Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Skyline Drive-In | Family-friendly drive-in movie theater showing the latest releases. | 31175 Old Hwy 58, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Barstow Skate Park | A skate park offering fun for skaters of all levels. | 1201 Barstow Rd, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Desert Discovery Center | An educational center with exhibits on desert wildlife and conservation. | 831 Barstow Rd, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
Dining Options
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| Los Domingos | Mexican cuisine with a local twist. | 1520 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Idle Spurs Steakhouse | Classic American steakhouse with vintage decor. | 690 US-58, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| DiNapoli’s Firehouse | Family-run Italian restaurant known for pizza and pasta. | 1358 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | 10% off for veterans |
| Casa Jimenez | Authentic Mexican food with homemade tortillas. | 831 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Jenny’s Grill Steak & Mariscos | Seafood and steakhouse offering hearty meals. | 1231 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Original Tommy’s | Classic American fast food known for burgers and chili. | 2610 Fisher Blvd, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Del Taco | Popular chain offering Mexican-inspired fast food. | 1511 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
Entertainment
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| Skyline Drive-In | Classic drive-in movie theater offering the latest releases. | 31175 Old Hwy 58, Barstow, CA 92311 | Discounts for military personnel |
| Route 66 Mother Road Museum | Museum dedicated to preserving the history of Route 66. | 681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Barstow Station Cinema | Local theater offering affordable movies and snacks. | 1611 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | No discount listed |
| Starlight Bowl | Family-friendly bowling alley with regular events and leagues. | 535 W Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | 10% off for veterans |
Veteran Resources and Discounts
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| American Legion Post 751 | Offers support services and advocacy for veterans. | 2181 W Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | Discounts for veterans |
| Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2143 | Community support and events for veterans. | 2082 Veterans Blvd, Barstow, CA 92311 | Discounts for members |
| USO Barstow | Provides support for active-duty service members and their families. | 1701 May Ave, Barstow, CA 92311 | Free services for veterans |
| Barstow Veterans Home | Long-term care facility dedicated to veterans’ healthcare. | 100 Veterans Pkwy, Barstow, CA 92311 | Free services for qualified veterans |
Events and Community Services
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| Fort Irwin National Training Center Open House | Annual event showcasing military equipment and training demonstrations. | Fort Irwin, CA 92310 | Free entry for veterans |
| Barstow Veterans Day Parade | Annual parade honoring local veterans with community participation. | Downtown Barstow, CA | Free participation for veterans |
| Veteran Resource Fair | Provides information and assistance on veteran benefits and services. | 500 E Virginia Way, Barstow, CA 92311 | Free services for veterans |
Local Veterans Organizations
| Business Name | Details | Address | Veteran Discount |
|---|
| American Legion Post 751 | Offers advocacy, social events, and veteran support services. | 2181 W Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | Discounts for veterans |
| Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2143 | Provides veteran services, social activities, and community outreach. | 2082 Veterans Blvd, Barstow, CA 92311 | Discounts for veterans |
| Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Barstow Chapter | Support for disabled veterans through assistance and advocacy programs. | 1620 E Main St, Barstow, CA 92311 | Free services for veterans |
Back to Top
Military Discounts Near Fort Irwin
This guide covers local dining, retail, automotive services, and entertainment discounts, helping veterans and their families make the most of the Barstow area while supporting local businesses.
Attractions & Activities Discounts
| Place | Discount | Address |
|---|
| Calico Ghost Town | 15% off admission | 36600 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA |
| Western America Railroad Museum | Free admission for veterans | 685 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA |
| Route 66 Mother Road Museum | Free admission for veterans | 681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA |
| Desert Discovery Center | Free admission | 831 Barstow Rd, Barstow, CA |
| Mojave National Preserve | Free entry for military personnel | 90942 Kelso Cima Rd, Kelso, CA |
| Skyline Drive-in Theater | 10% off admission | 31175 Old Hwy 58, Barstow, CA |
| Harvey House | Free admission for veterans | 681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA |
Health & Fitness Discounts
Travel Discounts
| Place | Discount | Address |
|---|
| Amtrak | 15% off train tickets | Various Barstow Locations |
| Budget Car Rental | 10% off car rentals for veterans | 2090 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | 10% off car rentals | 631 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Desert Inn Motel | 10% off stays for veterans | 1271 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Ramada by Wyndham Barstow | 15% off stays | 1511 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Best Western Desert Villa Inn | 10% off stays for veterans | 1984 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
Dining Discounts
| Restaurant | Discount | Address |
|---|
| Idle Spurs Steakhouse | 20% off meals for veterans | 690 Old Hwy 58, Barstow, CA |
| Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant | 15% off meals | 1520 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Rosita’s Restaurant | 15% off meals for military | 540 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| DiNapoli’s Firehouse Italian Eatery | 20% off meals for veterans | 1358 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner | 10% off meals for veterans | 35654 Yermo Rd, Yermo, CA |
| Lola’s Kitchen | 15% off meals for military members | 1244 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Jenny’s Grill Steak & Mariscos | 10% off meals for veterans | 1231 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Roy’s Cafe | 10% off meals for veterans | 87520 National Trails Hwy, Amboy, CA |
Retail Discounts
| Place | Discount | Address |
|---|
| Kimo’s Discount Grocery | 10% off total purchase for military | 206 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Barstow Outlets | Military discount at select stores | 2552 Mercantile Way, Barstow, CA |
| Desert Rose Boutique | 10% off all items | 1382 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| The Gold Diggers Thrift Store | 10% off total purchase | 1105 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Thriftology Barstow | 10% off purchases for veterans | 540 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
Dry Cleaning Discounts
Automotive Discounts
| Place | Discount | Address |
|---|
| Jiffy Lube Barstow | 15% off oil changes | 1620 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Barstow Tire & Brake | 10% off tire and brake services | 200 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA |
| Ray’s Auto Service | 15% off services for veterans | 1420 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Precision Auto Care | 10% off all services | 1340 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Sergio’s Automotive | 10% off services for veterans | 400 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Desert Auto Care | 10% off repairs | 2200 W Main St, Barstow, CA |
Medical & Health Services Discounts
Back to Top
Fort Irwin Financial Guide
This financial guide provides essential resources for veterans and their families transitioning to life near Fort Irwin in the Mojave Desert, California. It includes information on financial advisers, local banks, healthcare services, legal assistance, and additional services tailored specifically to the Fort Irwin area, along with veteran-specific discounts offered by local businesses.
Financial Advisers
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| High Desert Financial Services | Retirement planning, investment advice, tax preparation | Waived consultation fees for veterans | 12421 Hesperia Rd, Victorville, CA |
| Garrison Financial Planning | Wealth management, financial planning, and insurance | 10% discount on financial planning services | 14111 Park Ave, Victorville, CA |
| Fortune Wealth Solutions | Retirement planning, investment strategies, and tax services | Free consultation for veterans | 15476 7th St, Victorville, CA |
| First Command Financial Services | Financial planning, insurance, and retirement services | Free financial plan setup for veterans | 16292 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville, CA |
Local Banks
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Desert Community Bank | Checking, savings, loans, and business banking | Waived fees on checking accounts for veterans | 15450 Main St, Hesperia, CA |
| Arrowhead Credit Union | Personal and military banking, loans | Low-interest loans for veterans | 16050 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville, CA |
| High Desert Credit Union | Military-specific banking, loans, and mortgages | Special loan rates and no-fee checking for veterans | 16745 C St, Barstow, CA |
| Wells Fargo Bank | Personal banking, savings accounts, loans, and mortgages | Waived account fees for veterans | 12321 Hesperia Rd, Victorville, CA |
| U.S. Bank | Personal banking, savings, mortgages, credit cards | No-fee banking for military families | 15600 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville, CA |
Legal Assistance
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez | Veterans’ legal services, estate planning, family law | 15% discount for veterans on all legal services | 17177 Yuma St, Victorville, CA |
| High Desert Legal Services | Family law, estate planning, criminal defense | Free initial consultation for veterans | 15311 Bonanza Rd, Victorville, CA |
| Mojave Desert Legal Group | Estate planning, personal injury, and veterans’ benefits | 10% discount for veterans on legal fees | 14344 Outer Hwy 18, Apple Valley, CA |
| Victor Valley Law Group | Personal injury, family law, and veterans’ legal support | Free consultation and 10% off services for veterans | 15311 Roy Rogers Dr, Victorville, CA |
Employment Resources
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Victor Valley Workforce Development | Job placement, training, resume assistance | Free employment services for veterans | 15411 Village Dr, Victorville, CA |
| Goodwill Job Center | Job placement, career services | Free job placement services for veterans | 14514 7th St, Victorville, CA |
| San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs | Veterans benefits, job placement, and training | Free veteran employment services | 15900 Smoke Tree St, Hesperia, CA |
Healthcare Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Victor Valley Global Medical Center | General healthcare, veterans’ medical services | 10% discount for veterans on medical fees | 15248 11th St, Victorville, CA |
| Barstow Community Hospital | Full-service hospital with veteran care programs | Reduced rates for veterans | 820 E Mountain View St, Barstow, CA |
| Veterans Affairs Medical Clinic | Primary care, mental health services, veterans’ medical services | Free services for veterans | 12138 Industrial Blvd, Victorville, CA |
| Desert Valley Hospital | General healthcare, surgeries, and veterans’ services | 15% discount for veterans on hospital fees | 16850 Bear Valley Rd, Victorville, CA |
Veterans Organizations
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| American Legion Post 229 | Veterans support, community events, advocacy | Free membership for active-duty military | 15421 Village Dr, Victorville, CA |
| VFW Post 9415 | Veterans support, benefits assistance, and community events | No-cost membership for veterans and active-duty personnel | 15075 Grandview Dr, Victorville, CA |
| DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Chapter 19 | VA claims assistance, veterans’ benefits, support | Free services for veterans and families | 15229 7th St, Victorville, CA |
Childcare and Family Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Fort Irwin Child Development Center | Full-time childcare services for military families | Special rates for active-duty military families | 3888 Fiddlers Green Rd, Fort Irwin, CA |
| Apple Valley Christian Academy | Daycare, preschool, and after-school programs | 10% discount for military families | 15757 Rancherias Rd, Apple Valley, CA |
| Bright Horizons Childcare | Full-time and part-time childcare | 15% discount for military families | 15477 Anacapa Rd, Victorville, CA |
Transportation Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| Victorville Car Rental | Car rentals | 10% discount on rentals for veterans | 15425 Anacapa Rd, Victorville, CA |
| Barstow Car Rentals | Car rentals | 5% discount for military personnel | 720 E Main St, Barstow, CA |
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | Car rentals | 10% discount for veterans | 14314 7th St, Victorville, CA |
| Victor Valley Transit | Public transportation, discounted bus services | Free transportation to veterans with valid ID | 17150 Smoke Tree St, Hesperia, CA |
Counseling and Mental Health Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount Information | Address |
|---|
| High Desert Mental Health Center | Counseling services for veterans and families | Free mental health services for veterans | 15685 Main St, Hesperia, CA |
| San Bernardino Vet Center | Counseling and mental health services for veterans | Free services for eligible veterans | 13260 Central Ave, Victorville, CA |
| Victor Valley Counseling | Family counseling, mental health, and addiction support | 10% discount for veterans | 15476 Main St, Hesperia, CA |
| Fort Irwin Counseling Center | Mental health counseling, PTSD support for military | Free services for active-duty personnel and veterans | Fort Irwin, CA |
Transition Tips for Veterans
Back to Top
