MCB Quantico – The Crossroads of the Marine Corps
MCB Quantico is home to Marine Officer Candidate School, the Expeditionary Warfare School and the Command and Staff College. It also hosts the DEA, FBI and the helicopter squadron that flies the president.
Located in the NOVA/DC area, MCB Quantico is near Dumfries, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford and Triangle. The surrounding area has lots to offer including historical hot spots, museums and a vibrant shopping district.
MCB Quantico Overview
MCB Quantico is the birthplace of Marine Corps doctrine for amphibious assaults, known as the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” It is also home to the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory and is where Marine officers are trained. Located near Triangle, VA, the base is also a major economic hub for the region and houses many critical agencies like the FBI Academy, the FBI lab, Army CID HQ, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and DEA training facilities.
Located off of Interstate 95, MCB Quantico is about 30 miles south of Washington D.C. and about 20 miles north of Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, and Woodbridge. PCSing to Quantico is a great opportunity to live in Southern NOVA and enjoy the area’s history, culture, and proximity to DC. From local historical hot spots to thriving cities, there is something for everyone at this world class installation. MCB Quantico also offers plenty of amenities for the military community and hosts smaller unit specific events as well as the yearly Modern Day Marine Expo.
MCB Quantico Weather
The Marine Corps Base Quantico is a world-class training and education center for the Corps. It’s also the home of a military warfighting laboratory, where commanders test new tactics and technologies in combat, on reserve duty, or at home.
As a result, many PCSing to MCB Quantico choose to live off base in Stafford or other southern NOVA towns. The area’s rich history and proximity to Washington D.C. also make it a great place to relocate to and explore on leave or during a TDY.
Check the MCB Quantico website for directions to the base, and visit the Visitor Control Center to obtain your temporary vehicle pass (required if you’re not driving on an active duty ID). The station is located at Onville Road and is open 0700 to 1500 Monday through Friday, closed for lunch from 1145 to 1300. The commissary is on-base and open 24 hours a day. You can also find nearby restaurants and shopping at the Quantico Crossroads Mall.
MCB Quantico Schools
MCB Quantico is located in Prince William County, Virginia and is the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” In fact, it was the first place where revolutionary new tactics were developed for amphibious warfare. The base is also known for its work in developing Marine Corps doctrine, organization, training and education, equipment, and facilities.
Whether you’re interested in exploring Civil War battlefields, visiting historic museums and galleries, going to great theaters or hitting up breweries and shopping districts, there are tons of fun things to do at MCB Quantico and in the surrounding area. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, swimming and fishing on the nearby Potomac River.
Those who live on the base have access to three Child Development Centers for daycare, with one providing year-round care. If you have school-age children, you can enroll them in one of the DOD schools on the base: Crossroads Elementary and Quantico Middle/High School (must reside in MCB Quantico housing to attend). There are also public schools in neighboring Stafford County.
MCB Quantico Housing
MCB Quantico is located near Triangle, Virginia and is nicknamed “The Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” The massive installation occupies more than 55,000 acres in southern Prince William County, northern Stafford, and eastern Fauquier counties. It’s home to the Marine Corps Information Operations Center, a research center for telecommunications equipment, the Marine Corps Officer Candidates School, The Basic School, and other training facilities.
The base has several housing options available, including on-base living in ESA East and ESA West and off-base communities run by Lincoln Military Housing. These neighborhoods offer a wide range of sizes, prices, and amenities. It’s recommended that you start your search for a new home as soon as possible.
Many families choose to live in the nearby town of Stafford or in other southern NOVA suburbs for convenience and easy commuting. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll be in a high cost of living area and you should consult your sponsor about what your budget will look like based on the estimated expenses for your family.