About MCAS New River
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River is located in Jacksonville, North Carolina. It is a key installation for the United States Marine Corps, providing support and training for aviation operations. The base is home to several Marine Corps aviation units and plays a crucial role in supporting Marine Corps missions both domestically and internationally. MCAS New River features a range of facilities, including housing, medical services, and recreational amenities to support the well-being of its personnel and their families.
If you’re stationed at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River or planning a move here, our comprehensive guide has everything you need. From housing options both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything.
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (910) 449-6110
- Housing Office: +1 (910) 449-7110
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (910) 449-5230
- Family Support Office: +1 (910) 449-5724
- Legal Office: +1 (910) 449-6160
- Address: MCAS New River, Curtis Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540, United States
Mission
MCAS New River serves as the premier helicopter and tiltrotor air station for the U.S. Marine Corps, supporting Marine Aircraft Group 26 and Marine Aircraft Group 29. These units provide air combat support, logistical airlift, and rapid response capabilities for Marine Expeditionary Forces worldwide. The station also focuses on maintaining the readiness of MV-22B Ospreys and CH-53E Super Stallions for global operations.
History
- Established: 1943
- Originally created to support World War II training and operations.
- Named after the New River, which flows through the base.
- Played significant roles in the Korean War, Vietnam War, and recent Middle Eastern conflicts.
Key milestones include:
- Transition to modern tiltrotor aircraft, such as the MV-22B Osprey.
- Ongoing joint training with international allies.
- Expanded infrastructure to support 21st-century aviation needs.
Location
- Address: MCAS New River, Curtis Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540
- Coordinates: 34.7084° N, 77.4405° W
- Website: MCAS New River Official Website
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
- Driving Directions:
- From Wilmington International Airport: Take I-40 East to US-17 North, then NC-24 East. Follow signs to MCAS New River. Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
- From Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Drive east on I-40, then take NC-24 East via US-17 South. Follow signs to the base. Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes.
- From Downtown Jacksonville, NC: Head south on NC-24. The base is approximately 15 minutes from downtown.
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 7,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 2,500
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 10,000
- Total Population Served: Over 19,500
Base Resources and Information:
Housing Options:
MCAS New River offers on-base housing managed by the Marine Corps. Housing options include single-family homes and townhomes designed for various ranks. For detailed information and to apply for housing, visit the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) New River Housing page. For assistance, contact the housing office at +1 (910) 451-1985. The office is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Amenities and Services:
Commissary and Exchange:
The base features a commissary and Exchange for grocery shopping and retail needs. The commissary is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546. It is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on Sundays. The Exchange, located at the same address, operates Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.
Medical Facilities:
MCAS New River includes the Naval Health Clinic New River, providing comprehensive healthcare services such as primary care, dental care, and specialty services for active-duty members, retirees, and their families. The clinic is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For appointments, call +1 (910) 451-1527.
Recreational Facilities:
The base offers a fitness center, swimming pool, and various outdoor areas for sports and fitness activities. The fitness center is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546. It is open Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The swimming pool is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Education:
On-Base Schools:
There are no on-base schools at MCAS New River. However, military families can access local public schools in the Onslow County Schools District.
Off-Base Schools:
Military families living off base can enroll their children in public schools within the Onslow County Schools District. For information on school enrollment and resources, contact the Onslow County Schools District at +1 (910) 455-2211.
Things to Do:
Outdoor Activities:
Nearby attractions include Hammocks Beach State Park, offering hiking, fishing, and beach activities. Jacksonville also provides additional parks and recreational opportunities.
Shopping and Dining:
The city of Jacksonville offers a range of shopping and dining options. For shopping, visit the Jacksonville Mall, and for dining, explore local favorites like The Flame and Los Portales Mexican Restaurant.
Cultural Attractions:
Jacksonville features several cultural attractions such as the Lejeune Memorial Gardens and the Marine Corps Museum, offering insights into local heritage and military history.
Local Support and Resources:
Military and Family Support Center:
The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) New River provides financial counseling, deployment support, and family advocacy services. It is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546. For more information, call +1 (910) 451-3272.
Legal Services:
The base legal office provides legal assistance, including wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning. Contact the legal office at +1 (910) 451-2427. It is located at 1000 Birch Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546.
Veteran Services:
MCAS New River is close to several VA facilities offering benefits assistance, healthcare, and veteran resources. Visit the VA North Carolina Health Care System for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the mission of MCAS New River? | MCAS New River supports Marine Aircraft Group 26 and Marine Aircraft Group 29, focusing on tiltrotor and helicopter aviation operations. |
| What units are stationed at MCAS New River? | Key units include Marine Aircraft Group 26, Marine Aircraft Group 29, and the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training. |
| Does MCAS New River have on-base housing? | Yes, family housing is available through Atlantic Marine Corps Communities, along with barracks for single Marines. |
| What medical services are available at MCAS New River? | The Naval Health Clinic provides primary care, mental health services, and aviation-specific medical support. |
| Are there schools on MCAS New River? | Yes, DoDEA schools offer K-12 education for children of military families stationed at New River. |
| Can civilians visit MCAS New River? | Civilians can access the base with valid identification and approval from the Visitor Control Center. |
| What recreational facilities are available? | The base features gyms, sports fields, hiking trails, and MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) activities. |
| What family support services are offered? | The Family Support Office provides financial counseling, relocation assistance, and family readiness programs. |
| What is the history of MCAS New River? | Established in 1943, the station has supported Marine Corps aviation through multiple conflicts and continues to play a vital role in global operations. |
| What training capabilities does New River offer? | New River specializes in helicopter and tiltrotor aviation training, including the use of advanced simulators and live-flight exercises. |
