About Beale AFB
Beale Air Force Base, located in northern California, is a premier installation for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Home to the 9th Reconnaissance Wing, the base operates advanced aircraft such as the U-2 Dragon Lady and RQ-4 Global Hawk, supporting global defense missions.
Established in 1942, Beale AFB has a rich history, evolving from a World War II training site into a hub for cutting-edge technology.
The base offers comprehensive amenities, including housing, medical facilities, and recreational opportunities, ensuring a high quality of life for its personnel and families. Beale AFB continues to play a critical role in national security.
In this Article
Beale AFB Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Beale Air Force Base or planning a move to this strategic base in Northern California, our veterans guide provides all the essential details. From on-base housing to nearby options in Yuba City and Marysville, our guide will help you navigate your housing and local resources. Discover military discounts, financial resources, and everything you need to make your transition to Beale AFB as smooth as possible.
Beale Air Force Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (530) 634-5000
- Housing Office: +1 (530) 634-5001
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (530) 634-5002
- Family Support Office: +1 (530) 634-5003
- Legal Office: +1 (530) 634-5004
Address: Beale Air Force Base, 17855 Warren Shingle Rd, Beale AFB, CA 95903, United States
Mission
Beale Air Force Base plays a vital role in U.S. national security by providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. It is home to the 9th Reconnaissance Wing (9 RW), which operates cutting-edge aircraft such as the U-2 Dragon Lady and RQ-4 Global Hawk. The base ensures global vigilance, enhancing the Air Force’s ability to monitor and respond to emerging threats worldwide.
History
- Established: 1942 (as Camp Beale)
- Renamed: Beale Air Force Base in 1948, after Brig. Gen. Edward Fitzgerald Beale.
- Historical Significance:
- Initially served as a training ground for tank and infantry divisions during World War II.
- Became a key reconnaissance hub during the Cold War with the introduction of the U-2 aircraft.
- Continues to pioneer advancements in ISR technology and capabilities.
Location
- Coordinates: 39.1114° N, 121.3570° W
- Website: Beale AFB Official Website
- Phone: +1 (530) 634-3000
- Hours of Operation:
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Closed weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
- Address:
Beale Air Force Base
17800 13th St,
Beale AFB, CA 95903 - Driving Directions:
- From Sacramento: Take CA-70 N toward Marysville. Exit at North Beale Rd and follow signs to Beale AFB Main Gate (approx. 1 hour).
- From Reno: Take I-80 W and exit onto CA-20 W toward Marysville. Continue on CA-70 S and exit at North Beale Rd (approx. 2 hours).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 4,500
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 1,300
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 7,000
- Total Population Served: Over 12,800
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Beale AFB offers on-base housing managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, with single-family homes and duplexes available. Off-base housing options are found in nearby Yuba City and Marysville. Contact the Housing Office for assistance at +1 (530) 634-5001.
- Off-base housing options include rental homes and properties for sale in Yuba City and Marysville.
- Current median home prices in Yuba City: $450,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Beale AFB is accessible from major highways, including State Route 20 and State Route 70. Public transportation is limited, so personal vehicles are recommended for commuting. On-base shuttle services are available for personnel.
- Medical and Emergency Services: The 9th Medical Group at Beale AFB offers a range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. For more information, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (530) 634-5002.
- Dining Facilities: Beale AFB provides several dining options, including the Contrails Dining Facility. Off-base, Yuba City and Marysville offer various dining options, from casual restaurants to fine dining establishments.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Beale AFB has a fitness center with cardio equipment, weight rooms, and group fitness classes. The base also offers outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, running trails, and sports fields.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: Beale AFB does not have on-base schools. Children attend schools in the Marysville Joint Unified School District or Wheatland Union High School District, depending on their location.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in the Yuba City and Marysville areas. Higher education opportunities are available at Yuba College and California State University, Sacramento.
- Child Development Center (CDC): The base operates a Child Development Center offering daycare and preschool programs for military families. Contact the CDC for enrollment details.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Beale AFB is surrounded by scenic landscapes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Popular nearby destinations include the Yuba River and Sutter Buttes.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and exchange for essential shopping. Off-base, Yuba City and Marysville offer various shopping centers, including the Yuba Sutter Mall and local retailers.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local veterans organizations such as VFW and American Legion in Yuba City provide services and support for military members and veterans.
- Family Support Office: The Family Support Office offers deployment support, financial counseling, and other resources for military families. Contact them at +1 (530) 634-5003.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office at Beale AFB provides assistance with legal matters such as wills, powers of attorney, and more. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (530) 634-5004 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Established in 1942, Beale Air Force Base is home to the 9th Reconnaissance Wing. The base plays a crucial role in reconnaissance missions and supports the Global Hawk and U-2 aircraft, providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to the U.S. Air Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What aircraft are stationed at Beale AFB? | Beale AFB is home to the U-2 Dragon Lady, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and T-38 Talon. |
| Where is Beale AFB located? | Beale AFB is in Northern California, near Marysville. |
| Can civilians visit Beale AFB? | Yes, civilians can visit, but they must go through proper security procedures and clearances. |
| What is the mission of Beale AFB? | Beale AFB’s mission is to provide high-altitude reconnaissance and intelligence support. |
| What is the 9th Reconnaissance Wing? | The 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale AFB oversees all operations related to reconnaissance. |
| Does Beale AFB have on-base housing? | Yes, the base offers on-base housing for active-duty personnel and their families. |
| What is the role of the RQ-4 Global Hawk? | The RQ-4 Global Hawk is used for high-altitude, long-endurance intelligence-gathering missions. |
| How do I contact Beale AFB? | Contact the base via phone at (530) 634-3000 or email [email protected]. |
| Are there educational services at Beale AFB? | Yes, Beale AFB offers educational support, including college courses and training programs. |
| Are there recreational activities at Beale AFB? | Yes, the base has recreational activities such as fitness centers, sports fields, and parks. |
All Military Bases in California
- Beale Air Force Base – Home of Advanced Reconnaissance Aircraft
- Camp Parks – Training Site for Army Reserve Personnel
- Camp Roberts – Comprehensive Training Center for U.S. Armed Forces
- Coast Guard Base Los Angeles/Long Beach – West Coast Support Hub
- Coast Guard Island – Administrative Hub for Pacific Operations
- Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma – Advanced Technical Training Facility
- Edwards Air Force Base – Air Force Testing and Development Center
- Fort Irwin – Home of the National Training Center
- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar – Base of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing
- Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton – Major Marine Corps Training Facility
- Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow – Logistics Support Hub for the Corps
- Naval Air Station Lemoore – Navy’s Largest Master Jet Base
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake – Navy’s Weapons Development Center
- Naval Base Coronado – Premier Training Center for Naval Operations
- Naval Base San Diego – Major Navy Operating Base
- Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach – Ordnance Support Facility
- Presidio of Monterey – Defense Language Institute Headquarters
- Travis Air Force Base – Major Airlift and Logistics Hub
