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Welcome to Fort Jackson, SC! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More
Teal Yost
July 27, 2026 at 8:09 PM EDT
Fort Jackson, South Carolina — the largest and most active initial entry training center in the U.S. — processes nearly 50% of all Army soldiers annually. This guide covers base access via multiple gates, in-processing at the Strom Thurmond Building, visitor control procedures, and off-duty amenities including a lake, golf courses, and a water park. The nearby city of Columbia offers restaurants, museums, and community theater.
Welcome to Fort Jackson, the largest and most active initial entry training center in the United States. Nearly 50% of all soldiers entering the Army train at Fort Jackson each year. Located in the Palmetto State, South Carolina, you'll find plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities to keep you busy. Fort Jackson spans about 51,300 acres that include ranges and field training sites in more than 1,000 buildings. Serving so many student service members takes a team. Fort Jackson employs about 3,500 civilians and an estimated 3,500 service members call this installation home. If you're just arriving on orders, enter through any one of many gates and check in at the in-processing reception located in the Strom Thurman Building. If you have civilian visitors coming to see you, they will need to stop at one of the visitor control centers. Off-duty, you'll have plenty to do. Fort Jackson has a beautiful lake, golf courses, and an easy-to-access water park for rest and relaxation. Columbia is a nearby community with much to offer, including restaurants, museums, and a community theater. So enjoy your time adventuring.