FORT SILL
ARMY
Fort Sill, OK
United States
FORT SILL
ARMY
Fort Sill, OK
United States
Fort Sill
Fires Strong!
Base Essentials
Home of the Army Fires Center of Excellence and the Field Artillery School — 94,000 acres at the southern edge of the Wichita Mountains in Lawton, OK. A historic post (founded in 1869) and one of the Army's four Basic Combat Training locations.
Base Details
Type
Army Post
Branch
ARMY
Command
TRADOC
Status
Active
Est.
1869
Acres
93,829
Active Duty
13,000
Civilian
6,000
Population
130,000
Economic Impact
$3.6 billion
Fort Sill History
Named AfterBrigadier General Joshua Woodrow Sill
Fort Sill near Lawton, Oklahoma, was established in 1869 by Major General Philip Sheridan during the Indian Wars. It served as the site of Geronimo's imprisonment and has been the "Home of the Fires" — the Army's center for artillery and fire support — for over a century.
Today, it is home to the Fires Center of Excellence, which trains all Army artillery officers and soldiers. Fort Sill is also increasingly involved in air and missile defense training and is central to the Army's long-range precision fires modernization priority.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Fires Center of Excellence
FCoE
Other
FCoE
Other
Field Artillery School
USAFAS
Other
USAFAS
Other
428th Field Artillery Brigade
428th FA BDE
Brigade
428th FA BDE
Brigade
Historic Timeline
1869
Fort Sill Founded on the Southern Plains
1894
Geronimo Arrives as Prisoner of War
1911
School of Fire for Field Artillery Established
1953
U.S. Army Field Artillery Center Designated
—
View Key Moments
(4)
1869
Fort Sill Founded on the Southern Plains
Gen. Philip Sheridan established Fort Sill in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) to control Comanche, Kiowa, and Cheyenne tribes on the southern plains. Named after Civil War Gen. Joshua Sill, the fort became a cornerstone of the Army's post-Civil War frontier strategy and enforcement of reservation boundaries.
1894
Geronimo Arrives as Prisoner of War
The Apache leader Geronimo and his followers were transferred to Fort Sill as prisoners of war in 1894, following confinement at Fort Pickens, Florida, and Mount Vernon Barracks, Alabama. Geronimo lived at Fort Sill under Army custody until his death on February 17, 1909, and is buried in the post's Apache prisoner of war cemetery.
1911
School of Fire for Field Artillery Established
The School of Fire for Field Artillery was established at Fort Sill, beginning the installation's transformation into "The Home of Field Artillery." Fort Sill became the U.S. Army's center for developing field artillery doctrine, gunnery techniques, and new weapons systems — a role it has held for over a century.
1953
U.S. Army Field Artillery Center Designated
Following major expansion during World War II and Korea, Fort Sill was designated the U.S. Army Field Artillery Center, consolidating all field artillery training and doctrine development under one command. The center oversaw the transition from conventional artillery to rocket and missile systems during the early Cold War.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for Fort Sill.
Fort Sill Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for Fort Sill.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Visitor Access
What you need to know to get on Fort Sill.
REAL ID Required
Visitor Pass Required
Trusted Traveler Suspended
How are you entering the base?
I have a DoD ID / CAC
Active duty, civilian employee, retiree, or dependent.
I'm visiting someone
Sponsored visit — a DoD ID holder will vouch for you.
I need a day pass
No sponsor — process through the Visitor Control Center.
Commercial / Delivery
Truck drivers, contractors, and vendors.
Quick summary
All adult visitors without a DoD ID must obtain a pass to enter Fort Sill. Save time by pre-registering online, or apply in person at the Visitor Welcome Center near Bentley Gate. You will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
Guest policy
Because every adult guest must obtain a pass and undergo a background check, they are granted "unescorted access" for the duration of the pass. This means guests are authorized to drive their own vehicles and travel independently around the general, non-restricted areas of the installation (such as the museums, bowling alley, or golf course).
Restricted Areas
Visitor passes only grant access to public and general-use areas of Fort Sill. Guests are strictly prohibited from entering:
Mission Essential Vulnerable Areas (MEVAs)
Active training ranges or impact areas
Defense critical assets or exclusion areas
Barracks Guest Policy
If a civilian guest is visiting a single soldier in the barracks, additional rules apply:
All guests must present their ID and sign in on the visitor log at the Charge of Quarters (CQ) desk.
Guests under the age of 18 are not permitted in the barracks without written authorization from the soldier's commander (this is typically only granted for immediate family members).
Visitation hours end at 2200 (10:00 PM) prior to a duty day, and at midnight when the following day is a weekend or holiday.
Visitor Limits
There is no strict limit on the total number of guests a service member can invite to the installation (for example, for a Basic Combat Training graduation), provided that every guest over the age of 18 (and any driver aged 16 or older) successfully passes the background check and obtains a visitor pass.
Parking information
Fort Sill does not require a separate parking permit, decal, or dashboard placard for privately owned vehicles. As long as you have a valid DoD ID or an active visitor pass, you are authorized to drive and park on the installation.
Where to Park
Visitor Welcome Center: If you are arriving to obtain a pass, park in the large lot immediately in front of the Welcome Center building on Sheridan Road (just outside the Bentley Gate).
On-Post Parking: Once you pass through the gate, you may park in any general, unmarked parking lot near your destination (such as the museums, the commissary, or the hospital).
Parking Regulations
While there are no special permits, standard military installation parking regulations are strictly enforced by Military Police:
Reserved Spaces: Do not park in spots explicitly marked as "Reserved." These are typically designated for specific unit commanders, senior enlisted leaders, or specific residents, and unauthorized vehicles are subject to immediate ticketing or towing.
Handicapped Parking: Accessible parking spaces require a state-issued placard or license plate.
Prohibited Areas: Do not park on the grass, in fire lanes, or in ways that block dumpsters or loading docks.
Cell Phone Use: Remember that using a hand-held cell phone while driving on Fort Sill is strictly prohibited. You must pull over and safely park to use your phone.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from Fort Sill.
Information
25+ Things to Do Near Fort Sill in Lawton, Fletcher, and More!
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Information
Welcome to Fort Sill! Your Guide to Housing, Base Access, and More
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Your Guide To Visiting the Fort Sill Museum
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How Long Is Field Artillery AIT at Fort Sill?
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The Complete Guide to Air Defense Artillery
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PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to Fort Sill.
Welcome Center
Coming soon
In-Processing
All Soldiers PCSing to Fort Sill report to the Lee R. Hartell Welcome Center, Building 4700, Mow-Way Road. During duty hours (Monday–Friday, 0700–1630), check in at the main reception desk on the ground floor. After hours, on weekends, and on holidays, report to the east entrance of Building 4700 where 24-hour staff duty personnel will sign you in, arrange billeting, and provide instructions for formal in-processing. Bring copies of PCS orders, military ID, and all family records.
Installation in-processing is conducted on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and is typically completed within two days. The process is centralized within Building 4700, consolidating most required stops — ID cards and DEERS enrollment, finance, housing, vehicle registration, and unit assignment coordination. The mandatory "Start Right" Newcomer Orientation date and time will be assigned during check-in.
Army Community Service (ACS) on the first floor of Building 4700 offers the Relocation Readiness Program at (580) 442-4916 and a Lending Closet at (580) 574-4668 with small appliances, cookware, tableware, linens, sleeping mats, folding tables, chairs, and children's items — free for up to 30 days with a copy of orders. The weekly "Start Right" Newcomer Orientation covers installation and community resources. Spouses are strongly encouraged to attend.
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Temporary Lodging Details
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for Fort Sill.
1,808
units
/
4 to 6 mos
wait
/
OK237
MHA
On-post housing at Fort Sill is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, which operates family neighborhoods across the installation near Lawton, Oklahoma, with 2- to 4-bedroom homes featuring modern appliances, private yards, and access to community amenities including playgrounds and neighborhood centers. Balfour Beatty provides 24/7 maintenance services and an onl…
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Cost of Living Around Fort Sill
78
22% Below National Average
Housing
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near Fort Sill.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer (SLO)
1
Elementary Schools
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1
Middle Schools
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3
High Schools
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3
Colleges & Universities
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3
Other Schools
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Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
Nestled in the rolling plains of southwest Oklahoma and framed by the rugged granite peaks of the Wichita Mountains, the region surrounding Fort Sill blends deep military heritage with classic frontier charm. Comanche County is defined by a landscape where massive prairie lands meet dramatic rock formations, offering an setting that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Life here centers heavily around the post, with the local civilian and military communities sharing a tight-knit relationship. The regional economy, culture, and neighborhood development are closely aligned with the base, meaning military families are welcomed warmly across the area.
When choosing a place to live off-post, your choices range from bustling urban centers with easy highway access to quiet, tight-knit rural communities. Depending on your lifestyle preferences, your off-base search will likely take you into one of four distinct areas:
- Lawton: The immediate host city, offering the shortest commute times and the widest selection of restaurants, retail shopping, and established residential neighborhoods.
- Elgin: Located just northeast of the base, this rapidly growing town is highly favored by military families for its modern, new-construction developments and top-rated school system.
- Cache: Situated just west of the post, Cache delivers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere right at the edge of the scenic refuge lands.
- Medicine Park: A historic cobblestone resort town tucked into the mountains, perfect for those seeking a unique, nature-focused lifestyle with an artisan flair.
Lawton
Suburban
Lawton is the main city adjacent to Fort Sill and the hub of life for soldiers and families stationed there. It's a mid-size Oklahoma city with a full range of commercial services, a variety of neighborhoods, and housing prices that are among the most affordable in the military world. Most families settle in the northwest and southwest quadrants for the best combination of safety, schools, and proximity to the main gate.
Commute: 10–20 min
Gate: Main Gate (US-277)
Schools: Lawton Public Schools
Families with kids
Single service members
Budget-friendly
Dual military
Medicine Park and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge are just 30 min away for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing — one of the best outdoor amenities near any Army post. Cost of living is exceptionally low.
Cache
Rural
Cache is a small town west of Lawton sitting close to Fort Sill's western ranges. It's quieter and more rural than Lawton, with lower crime and a more relaxed lifestyle. Many families with kids appreciate the small-town school environment, and housing costs are rock-bottom even by Lawton standards. The Wichita Mountains are practically in the backyard.
Commute: 15–20 min
Gate: West Range Gate
Schools: Cache Public Schools
Families with kids
Outdoorsy types
Budget-friendly
Pet owners
Backdoor access to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Small-town school system with tight community bonds. Extremely affordable housing — one of the best markets in the entire military for families wanting land and space.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at Fort Sill.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully exempt
Retirement Pay
Fully exempt
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Oklahoma fully exempts all active duty military pay from state income tax for Oklahoma residents — one of the most gener…
Spouse Income Tax
Oklahoma fully exempts military and retirement pay. MSRRA applies.
Vehicle Registration
Non-resident military may keep home-state registration.
Property Tax
100% disabled veterans exempt from property tax.
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Pet Policies at Fort Sill
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at Fort Sill.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
Coming soon
Restricted Breeds
8
Prohibited Animals
13
Dog Parks
1
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Pet Shipping Tips
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at Fort Sill.
Commissary
1
Fort Sill Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
PX
Monday through Saturday: 0900–1930 Sunday: 0900–1900
Medical
1
Reynolds Army Health Clinic — Clinic
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
Youth Programs
MWR & Recreation
1
Fitness Center
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Fort Sill.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Fort Sill Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Fri 9:30am–8pm, Sat 8am–6pm, Sun 12pm–6pm.
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02
Is there a PX on base?
Yes, Fort Sill has a PX (Post Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders.
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03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Reynolds Army Health Clinic is the primary military treatment clinic serving Fort Sill. Call (580) 558-2000 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
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04
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, Fort Sill has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering full-day and part-day programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
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05
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, Fort Sill has on-post temporary lodging available for incoming PCS personnel and TDY visitors. Reserve early — spaces fill fast during peak PCS season (May through August).
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06
What school district serves the base?
Lawton Public Schools (rated C+ (Niche)) serves most military families at Fort Sill. Visit lawtonps.org for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
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07
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at Fort Sill restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
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08
Is there a dog park on base?
Yes, Buffalo Soldier Acres Dog Park is a fenced off-leash dog park available to residents at Fort Sill.
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09
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, Fort Sill has a fitness center available free of charge to active-duty, Reserve, and retired members and their eligible family members. Contact MWR for current hours and locations.
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10
How is military pay taxed in Oklahoma?
Fully exempt. See the Finance section of this page for a full breakdown of Oklahoma's tax rules for military members.
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11
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
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12
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for Fort Sill.
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13
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
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14
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near Fort Sill.
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Question
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Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.