Fort Irwin brings together several themes: the development of the National Training Center, historic travel routes, and recreational activities today. Visitors can choose from a range of areas of interest, from the history of the facility and bookable tours to activities, dining, and events.
History of Fort Irwin
The history of the National Training Center can be traced through several stages. The concept emerged in 1976; the first implementation in 1980 was followed by the early years of operation through 1984. On October 16, 1980, the National Training Center was officially activated. Fort Irwin returned to active status on July 1, 1981. These dates mark different steps and should not be combined into a single founding date.
The National Training Center and 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Museum covers the history of the Mojave Anti-Aircraft Range, from which Camp Irwin and Fort Irwin developed. The General Robert W. Cone National Training Center Fort Irwin Heritage Center focuses on a different subject: it showcases historic training technology used to train soldiers over the years, including the “God Gun.” Together, these two historical exhibits offer a look at the development of the site and the technology of military training.
The region’s history goes back further. People from the Lake Mojave Period are believed to have lived in the area around Fort Irwin nearly 15,000 years ago. Later, travelers on the Old Spanish Trail and, subsequently, the Mormon Trail camped near Bitter Springs. Both trails connected Salt Lake City with California. Bitter Springs, on the eastern edge of Fort Irwin, was a favored stop. The region’s early settlement and travel history thus sit alongside the more recent history of the military facility, without implying a present-day travel route.
Tours and Recreation
Fort Irwin Outdoor Recreation offers personalized Desert Discovery tours that can be booked as day or night tours. Choosing between day and night is a practical distinction to consider when planning a tour. One route passes the other side of Black Mountain, by the Harper dry lake bed, and continues to Rainbow Basin State Park.
The other offerings vary in focus. Kyle Coyote Spray Park is open seasonally and is free for all visitors. Fort Irwin MWR Library hosts book clubs, game nights, and activities for children. These programs complement the tours with community and recreational activities; specific dates depend on the current event calendar.
Dining and Other Activities
Shockwave offers on-site dining as well as arcade games, pool tables, air hockey, and an outdoor patio. Dining and recreation come together here. Samuel Adams Brewhouse at Epicenter offers something different: draft and bottled beer, along with burgers, wraps, sandwiches, wings, appetizers, and other pub fare. The two venues can therefore be distinguished by what you’re looking for—food alongside games, or a selection of beer and pub fare.
Desert Winds Bowling Center has several bowling lanes with automatic scoring. Bowling adds another recreational option to the tours, events, and dining. Fort Irwin offers a range of activities to choose from: guided tours, seasonal water fun, library programs, games, and bowling. Since the Spray Park operates seasonally and event or offering details may change, check the current information for your dates.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Redlands, Ontario, Yucca Valley, Needles, Crestline, Big Bear Lake, Chino Hills, Twentynine Palms
For the main travel overview: San Bernardino.
