About MCRD Parris Island
MCRD Parris Island, located in Beaufort, South Carolina, is a key U.S. Marine Corps installation that provides support for air combat operations.
The base is home to the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312 and the Marine Aviation Training Support Group (MATSG-21).
MCAS Beaufort plays a crucial role in maintaining the operational readiness of Marine aviation units, supporting training and deployment missions.
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (843) 228-2111
- Douglas Visitors’ Center: +1 (843) 228-3650
- Command Duty Officer: +1 (843) 441-5842
- Protocol Office: +1 (843) 228-4042
- Base Operator: +1 (843) 228-2111
Address: 923 Chosin Reservoir Rd, Parris Island, SC 29905, United States
Mission
MCRD Parris Island’s mission is to “make Marines by recruiting quality young men and women and transforming them through the foundations of rigorous basic training, our shared legacy, and a commitment to our core values, preparing them to win our nation’s battles in service to the country.”
History
- Established: November 1, 1915
- Key Historical Facts:
- Initially designated as Marine Barracks, Port Royal, the name was changed to Marine Barracks, Parris Island, in 1915.
- The spelling “Parris” was officially adopted on May 3, 1919, honoring Colonel Alexander Parris, a prominent figure in South Carolina’s early history.
- Since its establishment, Parris Island has been instrumental in training Marines, with approximately 20,000 recruits graduating annually.
Location
- Coordinates: 32.3193° N, 80.6880° W
- Website: MCRD Parris Island Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Douglas Visitors’ Center:
- Graduation Week:
- Wednesday: 7:30 AM–4:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Non-Graduation Week:
- Closed
- Graduation Week:
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport:
- Take I-95 N to Exit 8 for US-278 E toward Beaufort/Hilton Head Island.
- Continue on US-278 E and take the exit onto SC-170 E toward Beaufort.
- Follow SC-170 E and turn left onto SC-128 E.
- Continue onto SC-802 E and follow signs to MCRD Parris Island Main Gate.
- From Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport:
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 3,500
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 1,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 4,000
- Total Population Served: Over 8,500
Housing Options
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island provides on-base housing managed by the Marine Corps. Housing options include single-family homes and townhomes, designed to accommodate military families of various ranks. For detailed information and to apply for housing, visit the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Parris Island Housing page at: https://www.mccs-sc.com/housing/
Contact them directly at: Call (843) 978-2300
The housing office is located at 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905. 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 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905. 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
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island includes the Naval Health Clinic Parris Island, 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 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For appointments, call: Call (843) 978-2350
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 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905. 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 Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. However, military families can access local public schools in the Beaufort County School District.
Off-Base Schools
Military families living off base can enroll their children in public schools within the Beaufort County School District. For information on school enrollment and resources, contact the Beaufort County School District at: Call (843) 322-2300
Things to Do
Outdoor Activities
Nearby attractions include Hunting Island State Park, offering hiking, fishing, and beach activities. Beaufort also provides additional parks and recreational opportunities.
Shopping and Dining
The city of Beaufort offers a range of shopping and dining options. For shopping, visit the Beaufort Town Center, and for dining, explore local favorites like Plums and The Old Bull Tavern.
Cultural Attractions
Beaufort features several cultural attractions such as the Beaufort History Museum and historic sites offering insights into local heritage.
Local Support and Resources
Military and Family Support Center
The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Parris Island offers financial counseling, deployment support, and family advocacy services. It is located at 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905. For more information, call: Call (843) 978-2300
Legal Services
The base legal office provides legal assistance, including wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning. Contact the legal office at: Call (843) 978-2400 It is located at 1 Starlifter Ave, Parris Island, SC 29905.
Veteran Services
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island is close to several VA facilities offering benefits assistance, healthcare, and veteran resources. Visit the VA South Carolina Health Care System for more details at: https://www.va.gov/south-carolina-health-care/
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Parris Island open to visitors? | Parris Island is open for the family and friends of graduating Marines from Wednesday through Friday during graduation week. |
| What do I need in order to visit Parris Island? | Visitors aged 16 and older must present a valid state or government-issued photo ID. Drivers must also provide a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. |
| Can I visit my recruit during training? | Recruits are not permitted visitors during training except during designated Family Day events. |
| How can I send mail to a recruit? | Use the specific mailing address format provided by MCRD Parris Island, including the recruit’s name, company, and platoon number. |
| Are pets allowed on base? | Pets are not permitted during Family Day or Graduation events. |
| Can I bring firearms on base? | Firearms are prohibited on Parris Island. |
| What are the rules for motorcycle riders on base? | Riders must wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, reflective vests, gloves, long sleeves, and over-the-ankle footwear. |
| How do I obtain a parking pass for Family Day and Graduation? | Parking passes are typically provided by the recruit’s battalion or can be obtained at the Douglas Visitors’ Center upon arrival. |
| Are wheelchairs available for visitors? | A limited number of wheelchairs are available at the Douglas Visitors’ Center on a first-come, first-served basis. |
| How can I get a copy of my recruit’s platoon photo or yearbook? | Contact the recruit’s battalion or the MCRD Parris Island Public Affairs Office for information on obtaining photos or yearbooks. |
