Written by: VA Loan Network Editorial Team
Updated on October 19, 2025
About Fort Cavazos
Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), located in , is one of the largest military installations in the world. It serves as the headquarters for the III Armored Corps and is home to the 1st Cavalry Division and the 3rd Cavalry Regiment.
The base supports a wide range of military operations, including armored and mechanized warfare, and is critical for the training and readiness of Army units. Fort Cavazos provides essential support for both domestic operations and overseas deployments.
Local Fort Cavazos Veterans Guide
Fort Cavazos Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (254) 617-1000
- Housing Office: +1 (254) 617-1050
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (254) 617-2020
- Family Support Office: +1 (254) 617-1020
- Legal Office: +1 (254) 617-1100
Address: Fort Cavazos, 36000 Darnall Loop, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544, United States
Mission
Fort Cavazos, formerly known as Fort Hood, is a vital installation for the U.S. Army, serving as the home of the III Armored Corps and the 1st Cavalry Division. It is a center for combat readiness, training, and global deployment, supporting armored and aviation units with state-of-the-art facilities.
History
- Established: 1942
- Renamed: Fort Cavazos in 2023, honoring Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos, the first Hispanic four-star general in U.S. Army history.
- Historical Significance:
- Created as a tank destroyer training facility during World War II.
- Transitioned to a critical base for armored units during the Cold War.
- Played key roles in Desert Storm and ongoing operations in the Middle East.
Location
- City: Killeen, Texas, USA
- Coordinates: 31.1346° N, 97.7695° W
- Website: Fort Cavazos Official Website
- Phone: +1 (254) 287-1110
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7 for authorized personnel.
Base Location and Directions
- Address:
Fort Cavazos
761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544 - Driving Directions:
- From Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: Take TX-130 N to I-35 N. Exit US-190 W and follow signs to Fort Cavazos (approx. 1.5 hours).
- From Downtown Killeen: Take US-190 W to the main gate of Fort Cavazos (approx. 20 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 35,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 10,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 50,000
- Total Population Served: Over 95,000
Texas VA Loan Guide
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Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Fort Cavazos offers on-base housing managed by Lendlease Military Housing. Off-base housing is also available in nearby cities such as Killeen and Copperas Cove. The Housing Office can assist military families in finding the right housing options. Contact the Housing Office at +1 (254) 617-1050.
- Off-base housing options include a variety of apartments and single-family homes in surrounding areas.
- Current median home prices in Killeen: $210,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Fort Cavazos offers shuttle services for military personnel and their families within the base. The base is located near U.S. Highway 190, providing access to nearby cities like Killeen and Copperas Cove.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Fort Cavazos is home to the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, which offers primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. For medical appointments or emergencies, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (254) 617-2020.
- Dining Facilities: Fort Cavazos has several on-base dining options, including the Samuel Adams Brewhouse and various fast-food outlets. Off-base, Killeen offers a variety of restaurants and dining experiences.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Fort Cavazos offers a range of fitness centers, such as the Applied Functional Fitness Center and Starker Physical Fitness Center. There are also outdoor recreational areas, sports fields, and running trails available for military families.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: Children living on base attend schools in the Killeen Independent School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base can access schools within the Killeen Independent School District or Copperas Cove Independent School District. Higher education is available at Central Texas College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Fort Cavazos operates several Child Development Centers (CDC), offering daycare, preschool, and after-school care for children of military families. Contact the CDC for enrollment information.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Fort Cavazos provides various outdoor recreational facilities, including parks, trails, and sports fields. Off-base attractions include Inks Lake State Park and Stillhouse Hollow Lake for fishing, boating, and hiking.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a Commissary and Exchange (BX) for on-base shopping needs. Off-base, nearby Killeen offers multiple shopping centers and dining options, including the Killeen Mall and a variety of local eateries.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local VFW and American Legion posts in Killeen provide resources and support for veterans and their families.
- Family Support Office: Fort Cavazos offers family support services, including deployment assistance, financial counseling, and advocacy programs. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (254) 617-1020.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office at Fort Cavazos provides legal assistance such as wills, powers of attorney, and other services. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (254) 617-1100 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Fort Cavazos, formerly Fort Hood, is one of the largest military installations in the world. It is home to the **III Corps** and **1st Cavalry Division**, playing a crucial role in national defense by providing training and deployment support for active-duty and reserve units. The base also offers a wide array of support services for military families, including housing, healthcare, and recreational opportunities.
Top 10 FAQ about Fort Cavazos
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary mission of Fort Cavazos? | Fort Cavazos is the largest active-duty armored post in the U.S. and focuses on training and deploying heavy forces. |
| How big is Fort Cavazos? | The installation covers approximately 214,968 acres, making it the largest U.S. Army base in the world. |
| What are the living conditions like at Fort Cavazos? | Killeen, the nearby city, has affordable housing, but the crime rate is a concern for many families living off base. |
| What recreational activities are available? | Fort Cavazos offers numerous activities including gyms, pools, bowling alleys, and proximity to outdoor spots like lakes. |
| What is the weather like at Fort Cavazos? | The climate is hot and semi-arid, with scorching summers and mild winters, but occasionally freezing temperatures. |
| What are the biggest challenges of living here? | Residents often mention high utility costs, long waits for housing, and challenges with military leadership. |
| Is Fort Cavazos family-friendly? | Opinions vary, with some praising amenities for families, while others highlight issues with long deployments and training. |
| Are there hunting and fishing opportunities? | Yes, hunting for pigs and other game is popular, and there are designated ponds for fishing throughout the year. |
| What are the best places to visit near Fort Cavazos? | Popular attractions include Altitude Trampoline Park, local lakes, and various family-friendly recreational centers. |
| How can I access Fort Cavazos for recreation? | You need permits for certain activities like hunting and fishing, which can be obtained through the Fort Cavazos iSportsman. |
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