FORT CAVAZOS TEXAS: IN-DEPTH WELCOME CENTER

Welcome to Fort Cavazos, previously named Fort Hood, in the heart of Texas! Moving to a new installation can be exciting and stressful at the same time. Luckily, you’re PCSing to a post that has famously earned the nickname “The Great Place” because of the quality of life the post offers soldiers and their families. You’ll quickly find out for yourself how true the nickname is. As they say, everything is bigger in Texas and that’s true of Fort Cavazos. Spread across nearly 215,000 acres in the middle of Texas, Fort Cavazos is one of the largest military posts in the world by area and is the largest armored post in the U.S. Armed Forces. Fort Cavazos is the United States Army’s premier installation to train and deploy heavy forces and there are approximately 59,700 total personnel who work on the installation. Nearly 19,000 family members live on Fort Hood, while about 90,000 family members live off post. The installation has served as the home of the Third Armored Corps since 1954 and is the headquarters of the First Army Division West, 1st Cavalry Division, and 3rd Cavalry Regiment, among others. Continue reading for an in-depth guide to help aid you in your transition to living and working on Fort Cavazos.

1. Where Is Fort Cavazos?
2. Google Map View
3. Getting There – Directions to the Post
4. Entering Fort Cavazos and Post Amenities

• Check-in Procedures for Incoming Personnel
• Fort Cavazos History
• Fort Cavazos Visitor Center
• Fort Cavazos DEERS Office
• Fort Cavazos Gate Hours
• Fort Cavazos Commissary
• Fort Cavazos Exchange
• Fort Cavazos Barber Shops
• Fort Cavazos Post Office
• Fort Cavazos Finance Office
• Fort Cavazos Legal Office
• Fort Cavazos Library
• Fort Cavazos Hotels

5. Where Should I Live Near Fort Cavazos?
6. What Schools are Near Fort Cavazos?
7. What’s the Weather Like in Fort Cavazos?
8. Things to Do Near Fort Cavazos

Fort Hood Name Change

Originally, Camp Hood, which would become Fort Hood, earned its name from John Bell Hood. However, Hood was a general in the Confederate military, which prompted the Department of Defense's Naming Commission to rename the base.

On May 9, 2023, the installation was officially renamed Fort Cavazos to pay tribute to Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos, the first Latino to earn the rank of Brigadier General as a Soldier.

Fort Cavazos History

Training Soldiers to fight with armored vehicles has been at the heart of Fort Cavazos since the very beginning.

During its inception, the base was located in open spaces, which was perfect for the Army’s need to train against tank warfare for victory in Europe when fighting in World War II.

Additionally, Camp Hood and North Camp Hood also provided the U.S. with a place to hold WWII prisoners of war.

In the wars that would follow WWII and even today, Fort Cavazos stands the test of time as the Army’s leading facility for armored training.

Where Is Fort Cavazos?

Located between the Texas cities of Killeen and Copperas Cove, Fort Cavazos is in the heart of the Lone Star State providing easy access to many major metropolitan areas. This includes the Killeen–Temple metro area right outside of its gates.

Situated in the beautiful hill and lake country of Central Texas, the base is about 60 miles north of Austin, 200 miles northwest of Houston, 50 miles south of Waco, and 150 miles south of Dallas.

The Shoemaker Center

Inside the Shoemaker Center, Soldiers will find a wealth of resources for their service and family, however, when you first arrive, on the second floor, the Army Community Service is an important stop for assistance for your finances, relocation, spousal employment, etc.

Address: Darnall Loop Building 36000, Second Floor Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 553-8877

Fort Cavazos Map

Fort Cavazos Directions

With a handful of major thoroughfares running near the post, Fort Cavazos is an extremely convenient place to get to and from.

So whether you’re here to stay or here to train, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around.

Driving Directions to Fort Cavazos

From Killeen Regional Airport

1. If you drive from the airport, you will need to turn left out of the airport and take South Clear Creek Road/Texas 201N for approximately 7 miles.
2. Take a right onto Access Road and continue onto West Veterans Memorial Boulevard for one mile.
3. Take the exit toward Fort Cavazos and enter through the Beck Main Gate.
4. Continue to Marvin Leath Visitor Center to obtain a temporary pass.

From Interstate 35

1. From Interstate 35, take Exit 293B to merge onto Interstate 14 toward Fort Cavazos.
2. Continue for 20 miles.
3. Use the right lane to take the exit toward the base and enter through the Beck Main Gate.
4. Continue to Marvin Leath Visitor Center to obtain a temporary pass.

What Amtrak Station Is Closest to Fort Cavazos?

The nearest Amtrak stop to Fort Cavazos is a curbside bus stop at Copeland Soldier’s Service Center.

This bus will connect travelers to and from the Amtrak station in Temple, Texas.

Alternatively, you could take a Greyhound bus from Killeen to Dallas, San Antonio, and other parts of Texas.

Flights to Fort Cavazos, TX

There are a number of small and regional airports near the base. Traffic is definitely a factor in the Dallas-Fort Worth area so plan ahead if you’re short on time.

Killeen Regional Airport

Killeen Regional Airport is closest, with numerous airlines serving about 400,000 passengers each year.

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport

The nearest major hub is the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport about 130 miles away from Fort Cavazos.

Fort Hood Transportation Office

When it’s time to PCS, be sure to call the Installation Transportation Office. They’ll help you get your move organized so your stuff gets wherever your new home is.

Address: Copeland Service Center Building 18010 Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-7812/288-7898/287-9878

Hours:

• Everyday -
  0800 to 1500

Entering Fort Cavazos and Post Amenities

If it’s your first time on the post, or you don’t yet have a valid military ID or tags for your car, you may have to stop at the Marvin Leath Visitors Welcome Center to check in before you’re allowed to enter. Click here to learn more about where to go.

Check-in Procedures For Incoming Personnel

Upon arriving at Fort Cavazos, all new service members on PCS orders should report to the Copeland Soldier Service Center (Building 18010), on the corner of Battalion Avenue and T.J. Mills Boulevard.

If reporting in on Monday through Friday between duty hours 0600 to 1700, you must be in duty uniform.

Copeland Soldier Service Center Address: Battalion Avenue, Hood Rd Building 18010 Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-3832

Hours:

• Monday through Friday - 0900 to 1530

Fort Cavazos Visitor Center

All visitors and non-DOD cardholders should process at the Marvin Leath Visitor Center to gain access to Fort Cavazos.

The Marvin Leath Visitor Center processes visitor access passes for non-DOD ID cardholders, AIE registration services, and Fort Cavazos firearms registration services.

Those who haven’t been pre-sponsored should expect lengthy delays or should arrange to have their sponsor meet them at the gate.

The Marvin Leath Visitor Center is open 24/7, including holidays, and is on T.J. Mills Boulevard, Building 69012, adjacent to the Main Gate.

For more information, call 1 (254) 287-9909.

Please Note: The North Fort Hood Visitor Center is no longer operational.

Address: 69004 T.J. Mills Blvd, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-9909

Copeland Center Fort Cavazos - DEERS, ID CARD, and CAC Facility

Soldiers assigned to Fort Cavazos in need of DEERS assistance should head directly to the Fort Cavazos ID Card Facility.

Furthermore, the Copeland Soldier Service Center is open 24/7 and is where the Military Personnel Center (MPC) is located to help families settle in.

Getting a new CAC, or dependent ID, or making any changes to your official admin file is no problem at the Fort Cavazos DEERS office.

You can even make an online appointment and skip the waiting room.

Address (Fort Cavazos ID Card Facility): 130 Legends Wy, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Fort Cavazos DEERS Office Number: 1 (254) 287-5670/2518

Fort Cavazos DEERS Office Hours

• Monday through Friday -
  0800-1130 & 1300-1530

Fort Cavazos Gate Hours

The Main Gate, where you’ll find the Copeland Soldiers Service Center, is open 24/7. Hours for the other 14 post entrances are as follows:

• Clear Creek Gate -
  24/7
• North Clark Gate -
  24/7
• South Clark Gate -
  24/7
• East Gate -
  24/7
• East Range Road Gate -
  24/7
• West Range Road Gate -
  24/7
• 10th Street Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• Copperas Cove North Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• Copperas Cove South Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• WS Young Gate -
  0530-0930, 1130-1300, and 1600-1800 Monday through Friday, 0530-0930, 1130-1300, and 1500-2000 Saturday and Sunday
• Fort Hood Street Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• Santa Fe Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• 79th Street Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday
• Mohawk Gate -
  0530-2000 Monday through Friday

Fort Cavazos Commissary

Nothing beats a base commissary when it comes to great prices on groceries, food, and name-brand home products. And Fort Hood has two for all your convenient needs.

Clear Creek Commissary

An on-base option providing the families and Veterans near Fort Cavazos with affordable fares, supplies, and services.

Address: 50001 Clear Creek Rd Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-9055

Hours:

• Monday - 0900 to 1900
• Tuesday through Saturday - 0900 to 2000
• Sunday - 1000 to 1800

Warrior Way Commissary

Another supermarket option for the military community living near or on Fort Cavazos with affordable groceries at a convenient location.

Address: 85020 Warrior Way Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-8025

Hours:

• Monday - 0900 to 2000
• Tuesday through Friday - 0900 to 1900
• Saturday - 0900 to 1700

Fort Cavazos Exchanges

Throughout Fort Cavazos, you’ll find various exchanges offering tax-free groceries, supplies, and services at discounted prices.

The Fort Cavazos AAFES Main Exchange is the primary mall on base with smaller exchanges and kiosks located throughout the installation.

Address (AAFES Main Exchange): 1048 Clear Creek Rd, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 532-7200

Hours:

• Monday through Saturday - 0900 to 2000
• Sunday - 0900 to 1800

Address (Clear Creek Exchange): Bldg 4250 Clear Creek Blvd Ft Hood, TX 76544; inside the AAFES Main Exchange

Phone (Clear Creek Exchange): 1 (254) 532-7200

Clear Creek Exchange Hours:

• Monday through Saturday-
  0800-2000
• Sunday -
  0900-1800

Fort Cavazos Barber Shops

No matter where you are on Fort Cavazos, you’re never far from a great haircut. Keep your hair in regs with a weekly trim from any of the fine barber shops on post.

Barber Shop Locations & Hours

Address: Bldg, 50004 Clear Creek Rd, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone:

1 (254) 532-5812

Hours:

• Monday through Friday -
  0900-1800
• Saturday -
  1000-1700
• Sunday - 1000-1600

Address: Bldg. 33012, Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone:

1 (254) 532-5800

Hours:

• Monday through Friday -
  0900-1800
• Saturday and Sunday -
  1000-1500

Address: Bldg, 9401 761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544; inside the 19th Street Express

Phone:

1 (254) 534-9444

Hours:

• Monday through Friday -
  0800-1800
• Saturday -
  1100-1400
• Sunday - Closed

Address: 208 N Fort Cavazos St B, Killeen, TX 76541

Phone:

1 (254) 628-5300

Hours:

Monday through Friday - 0930-1900

In addition to these barber shops, you can also find a Great Clips Salon at 4250 Clear Creek Rd Ste 211, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544 in the Clear Creek Exchange, as well as additional barber shop locations within the North Fort Cavazos Troop Store and Pershing Park Express.

Fort Cavazos Post Office

The US Postal Service’s on-base Post Office at Fort Cavazos is your convenient stop for all your shipping and mailing needs.

Address: 332 761st Tank Battalion Ave Fort Hood, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-2728

Hours:

• Monday through Friday - 0900-1700
• Saturday - 0830-1300
• Sunday - Closed

Fort Cavazos Finance Office

In need of some financial advice, assistance, or any other kind of help when it comes to money matters? The Fort Cavazos Finance Office (Military Pay Office on Fort Cavazos) is here to serve all your needs.

Address: 36000 Shoemaker Lane 4th Floor, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544; inside of the Shoemaker Center

Phone: 1 (254) 287-9952

Hours:

• Monday through Wednesday -
  0900-1500
• Thursday -
  1300-1500
• Friday -
  0900-1500
• Saturday and Sunday - Closed

Fort Cavazos Legal Office

At the Trial Defense Service (TDS), Fort Cavazos families will find JAG legal services and assistance with civilian legal matters with all kinds of professionals ready to lend a hand.

Address: 330 761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-0476

Hours:

• Monday through Friday -
  0900-1130 & 1300-1600
• Saturday and Sunday -
  Closed

Casey Memorial Library

With over 70,000 books, including audio and electronic versions, there’s a lot of great literature you can enjoy at the Casey Memorial Library. There are reading programs and sessions for the kids, making the Fort Cavazos library a great place for families to visit.

Address: Bldg 3202, 72nd St &, W 761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-4921

Hours:

• Monday - 0900-1700
• Tuesday and Wednesday - 0900-1900
• Thursday through Saturday - 0900-1700
• Sunday - Closed

Fort Cavazos Hotels

There are plenty of hotels on or near Fort Cavazos to fit your budget, many of them within just a couple of miles from the front gate.

On Base Options

There are Fort Cavazos lodging options on base available. Here are a few hotels you’ll find in the post:

Candlewood Suites Building 144

The Candlewood Suites Building 144 is an IHG hotel offering military families and visitors easy access to Fort Cavazos and plenty of modern amenities, including a pool, free hot breakfast, and a 24-hour gym.

Address: Bldg, 144 761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 532-8233

Holiday Inn Express Keith Ware Hall

The Holiday Inn Express Keith Ware Hall is another IHG hotel located on the base, providing guests, including pets, access to a pool, fitness center, free WiFi, and much more.

Address: Keith Ware Hall, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 532-8233

Hotels near Fort Cavazos

In addition to the options on the base, there are several hotels right outside of Fort Cavazos offering quality lodging options with easy access to the instillation:

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Killeen - Fort Hood (Cavazos)

At the La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Killeen, guests are provided with easy access to I-14, close proximity to the base, and are surrounded by entertainment and eateries.

On-site, you’ll find free WiFi, breakfast, and parking. This hotel also allows you to bring your pets.

Address: 1112 S. Fort Hood St. Killeen, TX 76541

Phone: 1 (254) 312-4338

Best Western Plus Killeen Fort Hood Hotel & Suites

The Best Western Plus Killeen Fort Hood Hotel & Suites is a bit farther than some other hotel options, however, with I-14 so accessible, it’s still a very close option to the base.

You can find plenty of places to eat and shop around the hotel and on the property, guests are provided with a pet-friendly lodging option providing free parking, breakfast, WiFi, and an outdoor pool

Address: 2709 Cunningham Rd, Killeen, TX 76542

Phone: 1 (254) 634-5560

Days Inn by Wyndham Killeen Fort Hood

If you’re looking to stay near the base on a budget, the Days Inn by Wyndham Killeen Fort Hood location is a nearby, great option. Children 17 years of age and under stay free with a paying adult guest and there is free parking, breakfast, and WiFi available.

Address: 2709 Cunningham Road, Killeen, Texas 76542

Phone: 1 (254) 781-0474

Sleep Inn & Suites Near Fort Cavazos

The Sleep Inn & Suites Near Fort Cavazos is near the Stonetree Golf Club and less than 10 minutes from the base, making it a great location.

You’ll find free breakfast, parking, and WiFI available with both rooms an suites available for guests.

Address: 700 E Central Texas Expy, Killeen, TX 76541

Phone: 1 (254) 449-9731

Comfort Inn & Suites Gatesville near Fort Cavazos

Located just north of the base, this Comfort Inn & Suites location is away from some of the hustle and bustle, providing free hot breakfasts and a relaxing stay for guests.

Address: 111 TX-36, Gatesville, TX 76528

Phone: 1 (254) 865-1207

Fairfield Inn & Suites Killeen

At the Fairfield Inn & Suites Killeen, guests are provided with affordable rooms close to the base offering modern amenities for less. There’s a pool and if you like variety, the breakfast buffet has plenty of offerings. Best of all? It’s complimentary.

Address: 200 E. Central Texas Expressway Killeen, TX 76541

Phone: 1 (254) 526-3333

Holiday Inn Killeen - Fort Cavazos Area

If you’re looking for more IHG hotel options, this Holiday Inn provides you with a great off-base option that’s near the base along with other area attractions.

Free food for the kids makes this hotel a popular option for families and there are other modern amenities, including free parking, WiFi, a pool, and an onsite restaurant.

Address: 300 E. Central Texas Expressway Killeen, TX 76541

Phone: 1 (254) 690-5511

Residence Inn Killeen

Part of the Marriot family of hotels, the Residence Inn Killeen has rooms and suites available, an onsite kitchen, and even allows pets. Keep in mind that the WiFi and hot breakfast are free, however, parking is not.

Address: 400 E. Central Texas Expressway Killeen, TX 76541

Phone: 1 (254) 634-1020

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Killeen

Free breakfasts, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool are all available at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Killeen. Exclusively offering suites, there’s room for the whole family, including your pet when you stay.

Address: 2401 Florence Road Killeen, TX 76542

Phone:1 (254) 554-8899

Hot Tip: Download MyBaseGuide’s Fort Hood Military Relocation Guide for information about hotels near Fort Hood.

Best Places to Live near Fort Cavazos

You have plenty of options for living near Fort Cavazos as its location provides several local communities to choose from.

Fort Cavazos is fortunate to have the cities of Killeen, Temple, Belton, Gatesville, Harker Heights, and Copperas Cove as neighbors.

These cities include new and affordable housing areas, shopping centers, plenty of options for recreation, and a variety of good restaurants.

If you’re considering living on post, check out the Fort Cavazos housing options available to families. Otherwise, read on to find out more about living off post.

Killeen, TX

Killeen suffered a recession when Camp Hood (now Fort Cavazos) was all but abandoned after the end of World War II. The city boomed when it was established as a permanent Army post.

By 1955, Killeen had an estimated 21,076 residents and 224 businesses. Today, there are more than 159,000 residents, and the city is one of the fastest-growing areas in the nation.

Housing is plentiful and affordable in the area with a variety of historic and newer homes for sale.

Median rent is around $1,250 per month, and the median home values are around $237,000. The commute time for most residents is around 24 minutes.

Temple, TX

Temple enjoys the distinction of being the demographic center of Texas. With Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio less than three hours away, it is the transportation center as well.

In fact, more than 80% of the state’s population is within three hours of the Temple city limits.

The city of more than 89,000 residents offers the best aspects of two worlds: the conveniences of a big-city dwelling with the atmosphere of a small town.

Temple’s location is perfect for those stationed at Fort Cavazos. Sitting about 29 miles from the front gate.

Living in Temple offers residents median rental prices of around $1,650 housing units with average home values of around $295,000.

Belton, TX

Living in Belton provides families with plenty of recreational opportunities and a suburban feel through its many neighborhoods.

The Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area along with the body of water providing its namesake are popular areas for swimming, watersports, and bass fishing.

Located about 22 to 24 miles east of Fort Cavazos, the commute is simple and the city itself offers plenty of eateries and amenities.

The population of Belton is over 24,300 featuring an average rent of around $1,500 and a median home value of around $380,000.

Gatesville, TX

Located as the midway point between Waco and Austin, Gatesville sits on the east side of the Leon River, part of the Brazos River watershed.

The city is known for having one of the 17 remaining drive-in theaters in Texas and the largest spur collection in the world held at the Coryell Museum and Historical Center.

Gatesville is on the northern edge of Fort Cavazos and is dependent on the military for a large part of its economy, including a large military vehicle repair facility located on the east side of town.

This residential community has a population of nearly 16,200. Housing is very affordable in Gatesville with the median rent around $1,400 per month, though many apartments are only $1,100 per month or less.

If you’re looking to own your home, properties in Gatesville have a median value of $296,000.

Harker Heights, TX

Harker Heights is situated less than 10 miles southeast of Fort Cavazos. The city provides an excellent quality of life to its more than 34,100 residents.

Established in 1960 as a result of the need for new residential areas for the influx of the base’s military families, the city is home to parks and Stillhouse Hollow Lake, offering fishing, hiking, camping, and swimming opportunities.

Annual events include Paws in the Park in April, which features pet contests, an agility course, and pet adoptions; the Food, Wine & Brew Festival in September; and Frost Fest in December.

Residents enjoy affordable housing, with rents sitting under $1000 per month on average and a median home value of around $330,000.

Copperas Cove, TX

Founded in the 1870s as a small rural ranching and farming community, Copperas Cove has grown to be the largest city in Coryell County with around 38,000 residents.

The city sits to the east of Fort Cavazos and is a business-friendly area.

Pleasant neighborhoods are located throughout the city and there are many prime locations for buyers, such as areas with views of the hill country or overlooking a golf course.

Housing is affordable with an average rent of around $1,000 per month and a median home value of around $253,000.

Recreation is bountiful in Copperas Cove and the city has long been recognized and promoted as the bike/run capital of Central Texas.

Fort Hood Schools

While Texas has rejected the nation’s Common Core standards, that doesn’t mean education is lacking.

The state has adopted its own stringent standards known as the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). There are plenty of options for your children to receive a quality education in the Fort Cavazos area.

You’ll find a ton of elementary, intermediate, and high schools to choose from, whether that’s a public or private school. Not to mention preschools and daycare facilities for the younger kids.

Whether you decide to enroll your kids in one of the on-post schools connected to Killeen Independent School District, or a school in another district, rest assured that they’ll have access to the finest education possible.

If your child requires extra help, there are several programs available providing each family with the resources needed for success.

The on-post school liaison officer will be there to help make the tough transition to a new school easier.

Find more information on the best Fort Cavazos schools by checking out our extensive guide.

Fort Cavazos Weather

If you live on base, you can expect hot and sunny days mixed with the potential for severe weather of varying types.

The winters are mild and as part of the Texas Hill Country, Fort Cavazos does have the risk of flooding.

Severe thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes are common threats and because of the heat, wildfires are possible perils as well.

Each season brings about its own possible issues. Get to know more about the weather at Fort Cavazos you can expect below.

Spring

Rain falls throughout the year but spring (and specifically March) is when it’s the wettest, averaging seven days of rain.

When it’s not raining, the temperatures are pleasant, trending on the warm side. The season is ideal for outdoor recreation and entertainment.

Springtime is also when Fort Cavazos is at its highest risk of flooding, hail, and tornadoes, though these threats persist in other seasons as well.

It’s also worth noting that the 2022 Fort Cavazos fire occurred during the spring as well.

Summer

It’s hot and muggy in Central Texas throughout June, July and August. Daytime temps in the summer months peak around the mid-90s and can hit above 100 on occasion.

The warmest months in the area are July and August where the average highs are in the mid-90s and the lows are in the 70s.

Heat waves are a concern during the summer months as is the elevated threat of wildfires.

Fall

Rain is occasional during this season, with few rainy days. Fall is another time of year when it’s ideal to get out and take advantage of all of the outdoor activities.

Temperatures are still on the warmer side but it’s much more pleasant than the summer months, especially in October.

Heavier rains may occur on the off chance that the remnants of a tropical storm or hurricane hit the area, however, the base itself is considerably inland, avoiding most immediate threats from such storms.

Winter

As you would expect, the lowest temperatures of the year are during the winter months, reaching the low 40s with the highs creeping toward the mid-60s.

Central Texas generally doesn’t get snow but you can expect some rain and a lot of wind during the winter months.

Keep in mind that while this is the rule, there have been a few notable exceptions in recent years. This includes more minor incidents from 2022 to 2024.

On a more extreme side of things, the 2021 North American winter storm brought many areas of the Lone Star State ice, snow, and dangerously low temperatures. It’s always important to be prepared.

Things to Do At Fort Cavazos

Fort Cavazos is bustling with things to do and there’s something for everyone.

When you think of Texas, the first things that come to mind probably center around cowboy stuff like BBQ, rodeos, and country music.

Sure, you’ll find all of that and more at the Bell County rodeo but you can also enjoy so much more.

Outdoor activities abound with fishing and hiking galore and don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rest of the Texas Hill Country, filled with beautiful views, rich history, wine tastings, and more.

Fantastic restaurants, live music, and special events are also just a short drive away in Austin.

Not to mention the recreation and entertainment options available on post thanks to Fort Hood Family and MWR.

To learn more about the wonderful things to do near Fort Cavazos, check out our extensive guide on local hotspots and hidden gems you and your family will love.

Fort Cavazos Freedom Fest

Held at the Phantom Warrior Stadium, the annual Fort Cavazos Freedom Fest brings Central Texas together to celebrate our nation every year.

The festival happens around Independence Day annually and provides a variety of family-friendly activities along with local and nationally recognized entertainment.

There are cannon blasts to salute each state in the opening ceremony and when night falls, it’s time for the most iconic way to celebrate our nation’s birth—fireworks!

Keep in mind Freedom Fest is open to the public but you’ll need a DoD ID to enter. If you don’t have one, be sure to visit one of the Fort Cavazos visitor centers for passes beforehand.

Phantom Warrior Stadium Address: Bldg 50029. Fort Cavazos, Texas 76544

Phone: 1 (254) 287-6962

Hot Tip: Connect with military-trusted businesses and deals exclusively for Fort Cavazos at MyBaseGuide.

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

Updated by:

Buddy Blouin