Fort Irwin Visitor Information Center: Plan Your Visit

Located in the Mojave Desert, Fort Irwin is a United States Army base that offers a unique blend of military history, natural beauty, and recreational activities. Whether you're a military enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique destination, Fort Irwin has something for everyone. In this article, we'll provide you with essential visitor information to help you plan your trip to Fort Irwin.

Getting to Fort Irwin

Fort Irwin is situated in San Bernardino County, California, approximately 35 miles northwest of Barstow. The base is easily accessible by car, with several highways and roads connecting it to major cities like Los Angeles and Las Vegas. If you're flying, the nearest airport is the Barstow-Daggett Airport, which offers limited commercial flights. Alternatively, you can fly into the Ontario International Airport or the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, both of which are about a two-hour drive from Fort Irwin.

Things to Do

Fort Irwin offers a range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests. Some popular things to do include:

• National Training Center: The National Training Center is the main attraction at Fort Irwin, where you can observe military training exercises and learn about the base's history.
• Fort Irwin Museum: The Fort Irwin Museum showcases the base's history, with exhibits featuring military artifacts, equipment, and memorabilia.
• Desert Tortoise Natural Area: The Desert Tortoise Natural Area is a protected habitat for the endangered desert tortoise, offering guided tours and educational programs.
• Outdoor Recreation: Fort Irwin offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and off-roading.

Plan Your Visit

Before you visit Fort Irwin, here are some essential things to keep in mind:

• Hours of Operation: The Fort Irwin Visitor Center is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm, and Saturday, 9am to 1pm.
• Admission: Admission to Fort Irwin is free, although some attractions may require a fee.
• Security: Fort Irwin is a military base, so be prepared for security checks and restrictions.
• Weather: The Mojave Desert can be extreme, with very hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to dress accordingly and stay hydrated.

Accommodations

If you're planning to stay overnight, Fort Irwin offers a range of accommodations, including:

• On-Base Lodging: Fort Irwin has several on-base lodging options, including hotels and vacation rentals.
• Off-Base Lodging: There are also several off-base lodging options in the nearby town of Barstow, including hotels, motels, and RV parks.
• Camping: For the more adventurous, Fort Irwin offers several camping sites, including RV hookups and primitive camping areas.

Events and Festivals

Fort Irwin hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• Annual Fort Irwin Reunion: A reunion for veterans and their families, featuring live music, food, and activities.
• National Training Center Open House: An open house event that allows visitors to observe military training exercises and meet with soldiers.
• Desert Tortoise Festival: A festival celebrating the desert tortoise, featuring live music, food, and educational programs.

Tips and Reminders

Here are some final tips and reminders to keep in mind when visiting Fort Irwin:

• Respect the Environment: Fort Irwin is located in a sensitive desert ecosystem, so be sure to respect the environment and wildlife.
• Follow Security Protocols: Fort Irwin is a military base, so be prepared to follow security protocols and restrictions.
• Stay Hydrated: The Mojave Desert can be extreme, so be sure to stay hydrated and bring plenty of water.

Fort Irwin Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with essential information to plan your visit to Fort Irwin. Whether you're interested in military history, outdoor recreation, or simply exploring a unique destination, Fort Irwin has something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today?