About Fort Irwin
Fort Irwin is a key U.S. Army training base in California’s Mojave Desert, located 37 miles northeast of Barstow, home to the National Training Center (NTC).
It provides realistic combat training for soldiers, simulating challenging conditions they may encounter in deployment. This expansive facility ensures Army units are well-prepared for combat through advanced training exercises.
In this Article
Fort Irwin Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Fort Irwin in the Mojave Desert of California or planning a move, our in-depth veterans guide has everything you need. Whether you’re looking for housing options on or off the base, local resources, or insight into the unique attractions near Fort Irwin, this guide is tailored for your needs. With information on nearby cities like Barstow and key support services available to veterans and military families, this guide will help you make the most of your time at Fort Irwin. Explore military discounts, financial resources, and more as you prepare for your new assignment or life after service.
Fort Irwin Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (760) 380-3369
- Housing Office: +1 (760) 380-3576
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (760) 380-3104
- Family Support Office: +1 (760) 380-3776
- Legal Office: +1 (760) 380-5321
Address: Fort Irwin, 4711 Barstow Rd, Fort Irwin, CA 92310, United States
Mission
Fort Irwin is home to the National Training Center (NTC), where soldiers prepare for combat with advanced, realistic training scenarios.
It focuses on honing skills for large-scale maneuvers and operational effectiveness. The NTC provides a vital role in ensuring that U.S. Army units are ready to face complex challenges in global conflicts.
History
- Established: 1940 as the Mojave Anti-Aircraft Range
- Renamed: Fort Irwin in 1961, in honor of Major General George LeRoy Irwin.
- Key Historical Contributions:
- Served as a key training site during World War II.
- Transitioned to the National Training Center in the early 1980s, becoming a premier combat training facility for the U.S. Army.
- Played a critical role in preparing soldiers for conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Location
- Address: Fort Irwin, 4711 Barstow Rd, Fort Irwin, CA 92310
- Coordinates: 35.2651° N, 116.6865° W
- Website: Fort Irwin Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–4:30 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
Driving Directions:
- From Los Angeles: Take I-15 N toward Barstow, exit onto Fort Irwin Rd, and follow signs to the base (approximately 2.5 hours).
- From Las Vegas: Head south on I-15 S, exit onto Fort Irwin Rd near Barstow, and continue to the base (approximately 2 hours).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 4,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 1,500
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 6,000
- Total Population Served: Over 11,500
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Fort Irwin offers both on-base and off-base housing options. On-base housing is managed by The Villages at Fort Irwin. The Housing Office can assist military personnel and their families with finding suitable housing options both on base and in nearby Barstow. Contact the Housing Office at +1 (760) 380-2575.
- Nearby cities, such as Barstow, offer additional off-base housing options, including apartments and single-family homes.
- Current median home prices in Barstow: $185,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Fort Irwin is located in the Mojave Desert, with shuttle services provided for personnel and easy access to Barstow via Fort Irwin Road.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care at Fort Irwin is provided by the Weed Army Community Hospital, offering primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. For medical assistance, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (760) 380-2250.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options at Fort Irwin include the Oasis Dining Facility and other food options at the Exchange Food Court. Off-base, Barstow provides additional dining choices.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Fort Irwin offers several fitness centers, including Freedom Fitness Center, featuring fitness equipment, group classes, and outdoor recreational areas for activities like running and hiking.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: Fort Irwin is home to several schools operated by the Silver Valley Unified School District, including Fort Irwin Middle School and Tiefort View Intermediate School.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base in nearby Barstow have access to schools in the Barstow Unified School District. Higher education opportunities are available at Barstow Community College.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Fort Irwin operates a Child Development Center offering daycare, preschool programs, and after-school care. For enrollment details, contact the CDC directly.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Fort Irwin provides outdoor recreational facilities including parks, sports fields, and hiking trails. Off-base, the Mojave Desert offers opportunities for camping, off-roading, and stargazing.
- Shopping and Dining: The base features a commissary and Exchange for shopping needs. Off-base, Barstow provides additional shopping centers and dining options, including the Outlets at Barstow.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local organizations such as the VFW and American Legion in Barstow provide support and resources for veterans and their families.
- Family Support Office: Offers deployment support, financial counseling, and family advocacy services. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (760) 380-3764.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office offers assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (760) 380-2311 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Fort Irwin, established in 1940, serves as a major training center for the U.S. Army, home to the National Training Center (NTC) where large-scale force-on-force exercises take place, ensuring soldiers are ready for combat operations worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
| FAQ | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Fort Irwin’s primary mission? | Fort Irwin serves as the National Training Center for the U.S. Army, providing realistic training scenarios. |
| Where is Fort Irwin located? | Fort Irwin is located in the Mojave Desert in southern California, approximately 37 miles northeast of Barstow. |
| How do I contact Fort Irwin? | You can contact Fort Irwin at (760) 380-3369 |
| Can civilians visit Fort Irwin? | Yes, civilians can visit Fort Irwin but must go through a security screening process at the Visitor Control Center. |
| What is the weather like at Fort Irwin? | Fort Irwin experiences extreme desert weather with hot summers and cool winters. |
| Are there schools on Fort Irwin? | Yes, Fort Irwin has several schools including Lewis Elementary and Fort Irwin Middle School. |
| What housing options are available at Fort Irwin? | Fort Irwin offers on-post housing for military families and off-post options in nearby Barstow and Victorville. |
| Does Fort Irwin offer medical services? | Yes, Fort Irwin is home to Weed Army Community Hospital, offering a wide range of medical services. |
| What recreational activities are available? | Fort Irwin has recreational facilities including a gym, bowling alley, and outdoor parks for families. |
| Can I apply for jobs at Fort Irwin? | Yes, civilian job opportunities are available through USAJobs and other hiring agencies. |
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
