MCB CAMP PENDLETON
MARINES
Oceanside, CA
United States
MCB CAMP PENDLETON
MARINES
Oceanside, CA
United States
MCB Camp Pendleton
The Corps' Largest West Coast Expeditionary Training Facility
Base Essentials
The Marine Corps' premier West Coast base — home of I MEF and the 1st Marine Division across 125,000 acres of coastal Southern California between Orange and San Diego counties. A 70,000+ Marine community with 17 miles of Pacific coastline and unmatched outdoor training terrain.
Base Details
Type
Marine Corps Base
Branch
MARINES
Command
MCICOM
Status
Active
Est.
1942
Acres
125,476
Active Duty
38,000
Civilian
8,000
Population
3,300,000
Economic Impact
$5.5 billion
MCB Camp Pendleton History
Named AfterMajor General Joseph Henry Pendleton (USMC)
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California, was established in 1942 as the major West Coast amphibious training base for the Marine Corps. Spanning 125,000 acres along 17 miles of Southern California coastline, it is home to I Marine Expeditionary Force and is the only remaining undeveloped stretch of coast between Los Angeles and San Diego. Camp Pendleton supports the full range of Marine Corps training from amphibious assaults to live-fire combined arms exercises. The base's irreplaceable coastal training areas make it one of the most strategically valuable military properties in the country.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
I Marine Expeditionary Force
—
—
1st Marine Division
—
—
School of Infantry West
—
—
Historic Timeline
1942
Camp Pendleton Activated on Rancho Santa Margarita Land
1944
Base Declared Permanent; Wartime Population Peaks at 86,000
1950
1st Marine Division Reactivated at Pendleton for Korea
1991
I MEF Leads Marine Ground Assault in Desert Storm
2003
1st Marine Division Leads I MEF Invasion of Iraq
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1942
Camp Pendleton Activated on Rancho Santa Margarita Land
On September 25, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially dedicated Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on 122,798 acres of the historic Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores, acquired by federal condemnation at a cost of approximately $4.2 million. Named for Major General Joseph Henry Pendleton, it was designed as the primary large-scale amphibious training facility for Marines deploying to the Pacific.
1944
Base Declared Permanent; Wartime Population Peaks at 86,000
By October 1944, Camp Pendleton was declared a permanent installation and its wartime training population peaked at 86,749 Marines, sailors, and civilians — making it one of the largest military concentrations in the country. Specialized schools for landing craft, amphibious tractors, beach battalions, and naval construction battalions trained tens of thousands of troops for Pacific island-hopping campaigns.
1950
1st Marine Division Reactivated at Pendleton for Korea
With the outbreak of the Korean War, the 1st Marine Division was reactivated on August 4, 1950 at Camp Pendleton, rapidly assembled with regulars, reservists, and newly trained Marines before deploying to Kobe, Japan and then into combat. The division fought in the Inchon Landing and the legendary Battle of Chosin Reservoir in November–December 1950, fighting through ten Chinese divisions in temperatures as low as -36°F.
1991
I MEF Leads Marine Ground Assault in Desert Storm
Camp Pendleton's I Marine Expeditionary Force, under Lieutenant General Walter Boomer, deployed over 84,000 Marines to Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Shield and led the Marine ground assault into Kuwait on February 24, 1991. The 1st Marine Division helped liberate Kuwait City within four days of the ground offensive's launch.
2003
1st Marine Division Leads I MEF Invasion of Iraq
In March 2003, the Camp Pendleton-based 1st Marine Division and I MEF crossed into Iraq as the eastern axis of the coalition invasion, fighting through An-Nasiriyah and advancing to Baghdad alongside Army forces. The division was awarded its ninth Presidential Unit Citation for its actions during the campaign.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for MCB Camp Pendleton.
MCB Camp Pendleton Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for MCB Camp Pendleton.
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 MCB Camp Pendleton.
REAL ID 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 visitors to MCB Camp Pendleton need authorized access and valid identification. Visit the Visitor Center to obtain a pass, or arrange sponsorship through a base employee. Access requirements vary by purpose—check the base access menu for your specific situation.
Guest policy
All visitors must have authorized access and valid identification. Access requirements vary depending on your purpose for visiting and sponsorship status.
Parking information
Parking allowed in designated areas only.
Latest News
Our coverage, local headlines, and upcoming events around MCB Camp Pendleton.
MyBaseGuide · Information
30+ Things to Do Near Camp Pendleton, in Oceanside, San Clemente, and Carlsbad!
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Jun 26
MyBaseGuide · Information
Welcome to Camp Pendleton: Your Guide to Housing, Base Access, and More!
Read
Jun 26
MyBaseGuide · Operations
Artillery Shell Explodes Over I-5 During Marines’ Celebration in California
Read
Mar 27
MyBaseGuide · Operations
Pentagon Weighs Leasing Camp Pendleton for Commercial Use
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Oct 6
MyBaseGuide · Health & Fitness
What Causes Mental Health Issues?
Read
Jun 11
PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to MCB Camp Pendleton.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Installation Personnel Administration Center (IPAC) Inbound Center
In-Processing
Marines report to the IPAC Inbound Center at Building 13107 in Service "A" uniform, Monday–Friday 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM. A duty is on post 24 hours daily for after-hours arrivals at (760) 725-6271. Required documents include web orders with endorsements, commercial receipts with non-availability statements, and all PCS expense receipts.
Contact the Housing Office within 72 hours of arrival. Navy personnel assigned to Naval Hospital report to Building H-100 quarterdeck; other Navy personnel report to Building 1223. Reserve Marines on mobilized orders report to S-3 Processing Section, Building 64434.
The Welcome Aboard Brief is held twice monthly at the Unit Event Center (Building 1795, West Barnett Circle), 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM, with occasional evening online sessions. Attendance is required within 90 days of reporting. Spouses are encouraged to attend. The IR&R office at (760) 725-6090 provides relocation counseling and welcome packets.
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Open PCS Entitlements Estimator
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for MCB Camp Pendleton.
6,880
units
/
CA024
MHA
On-post housing at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton is managed by Liberty Military Housing, which operates extensive communities across this large coastal installation in Southern California, including neighborhoods such as Las Flores, San Onofre, and Stuart Mesa offering 2- to 5-bedroom homes. Liberty provides an online portal for applications and maintenance, alon…
Local Market
2026 BAH Calculator
Dependency Status
With Dependents
$XX,XXX per year
E-5
Location
Select a grade and location above
Data Sources
BAH rates: Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO), effective January 1, 2026. Rates set annually by DoD based on rental survey data.
View Full BAH Rates
Cost of Living Around MCB Camp Pendleton
160
60% Above National Average
Housing
Calculate Your Buying Power
See what you can afford using your rank, BAH, and local market data.
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near MCB Camp Pendleton.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer (SLO)
10
Elementary Schools
View schools
1
Middle Schools
View schools
3
High Schools
View schools
3
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
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
Camp Pendleton spans over 125,000 acres across San Diego and Orange counties, so there are plenty of off-base housing options. However, housing costs in the area are very high, which may make on-base housing preferable. If you want to live off base, consider renting to make your BAH go farther. Where you choose to live will likely be influenced by cost and where you work on base, as the size of the installation means that there is a lot of variability in commute times. For those working on Camp Pendleton South, Oceanside, Vista, and Fallbrook may be good options. Personnel working on Camp Pendleton North may want to consider communities north of Camp Pendleton like Laguna Hills or Mission Viejo. However, living in Orange County tends to be more expensive, especially since living near the San Onofre Gate means living closer to the coast.
Oceanside
Suburban
Oceanside is the primary off-base community for Camp Pendleton Marines and home to a massive military family population. It sits directly adjacent to the base's main gate with beach access, a growing downtown, and a wide range of housing options. It's one of the most affordable coastal cities in Southern California, which is exactly why it's the default choice for most families.
Commute: 5–15 min
Gate: Main Gate (I-5 / Las Pulgas)
Schools: Oceanside Unified School District
Families with kids
Single service members
Dual military
Outdoorsy types
Pacific beach access right in town. The Oceanside Harbor and Pier are local landmarks. Growing restaurant and brewery scene downtown. One of the best surf spots in SoCal is minutes from the gate.
Fallbrook
Small Town
Fallbrook is an inland community in northern San Diego County that's become popular with Marine families who want more space and a slower pace at a lower price point than coastal Oceanside. It's a semi-rural agricultural area known for avocado farms and a laid-back lifestyle. The commute to Pendleton is manageable via I-15 or back roads.
Commute: 20–30 min
Gate: Main Gate (I-15 / Fallbrook)
Schools: Fallbrook Union Elementary / High School District
Families with kids
Outdoorsy types
Pet owners
Budget-friendly
Avocado orchards, hiking trails, and a genuinely rural character set Fallbrook apart from typical military communities. Lower housing costs for much more space. Santa Margarita River trail system is accessible from the neighborhood.
Vista
Suburban
Vista is a small city located south of Oceanside. It's a bit more expensive, but still reasonable compared to options north of base.
Commute: 15 minutes
Schools: Vista Unified School District
Access to both fantastic indoor and outdoor recreation, including but not limited to: AVO Playhouse, Moonlight Amphitheatre, Wave Waterpark, the Vista Conservancy Walking Trail, and Alta Vista Gardens.
Mission Viejo
Suburban
Families looking to live north of Camp Pendleton near the San Onofre or Christianitos Gates will want to consider this area for it's slightly lower housing costs compared to other options closer to the coast.
Commute: 20-30 minutes
Gate: San Onofre
Schools: Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Dual Income
Outdoorsy
Mission Viejo has lots of beautiful parks and trails. Lake Mission Viejo is a beautiful lake with public beaches and other water recreation opportunities.
Laguna Hills
Suburban
Families looking to live north of Camp Pendleton near the San Onofre or Christianitos Gates will want to consider this area for it's slightly lower housing costs compared to other options closer to the coast.
Commute: 25 minutes
Gate: San Onofre
Schools: Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Dual Income
Well known for hiking and equestrian trails. Close to the massive retail, dining, and entertainment hub at the Irvine Spectrum Center. Access to some of the best beaches in Southern California.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at MCB Camp Pendleton.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully taxed
Retirement Pay
Fully taxed
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
California taxes active duty pay of California residents stationed within California at rates up to 13.3% — the highest…
Spouse Income Tax
California taxes military pay if stationed in CA. Spouses may claim domicile elsewhere under MSRRA.
Vehicle Registration
Non-resident military can keep home-state plates but may owe use tax on vehicle purchase.
Property Tax
Disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemption. Prop 13 limits assessment increases.
Combat Zone Exclusion
A servicemember who serves, or has served, in a combat zone can exclude up to 100% of combat pay from income.
Pet Policies at MCB Camp Pendleton
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at MCB Camp Pendleton.
On-Base Vet Clinic
Coming soon
Restricted Breeds
4
Prohibited Animals
11
Dog Parks
3
Boarding & Kennels
6
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Pet-Friendly Housing
Local Pet Notes
Pet Shipping Tips
Temporary Lodging
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at MCB Camp Pendleton.
Commissary
1
Camp Pendleton Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
MCX
Daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Medical
1
Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton — Hospital
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
Youth Programs
MWR & Recreation
4
Fitness Center
Golf Course
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about MCB Camp Pendleton.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Camp Pendleton Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Call (760) 430-1701 for current hours.
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02
Is there an MCX on base?
Yes, MCB Camp Pendleton has an MCX (Marine Corps Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders.
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03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton is the primary military treatment hospital serving MCB Camp Pendleton. Call (760) 725-1277 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
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04
Is there an on-base vet clinic?
Yes. The Camp Pendleton Veterinary Treatment Facility provides a number of standard veterinary services; however, priority is given to supporting PCS preparation and international health certificates for PCS. All other typical care visits are accommodated as time and space allow. Address: Bldg. 16090 4th St, Camp Pendleton, CA, 92055 Phone: (760) 725-3439 Email: camppendletonvet@gmail.com Hours: Monday - Wednesday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
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05
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, MCB Camp Pendleton has three Child Development Centers (CDCs) offering full-day and part-day programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
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06
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, MCB Camp Pendleton 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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07
What school district serves the base?
Oceanside Unified School District and Fallbrook Elementary School District together operate five K-8 schools on base. High school students living on base typically attend school in Oceanside Unified School District, Fallbrook High School District, or Capistrano Unified School District.
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08
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at MCB Camp Pendleton restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Wolf Hybrid. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
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09
Is there a dog park on base?
Yes, Del Mar Dog Park is a fenced off-leash dog park available to residents at MCB Camp Pendleton.
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10
How is military pay taxed in California?
Partially exempt. See the Finance section of this page for a full breakdown of California'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 MCB Camp Pendleton.
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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 MCB Camp Pendleton.
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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.