---
title: What Military Bases are in Minnesota?
slug: what-military-bases-are-in-minnesota
description: Army base in Minnesota—Camp Ripley anchors the state’s military presence with Fort Snelling history—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and agent matches.
publishedAt: 2024-07-10T14:16:12.000Z
updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z
author: VeteranPCS
categories: [US Military Bases]
canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-minnesota
---

# What Military Bases are in Minnesota?

Minnesota has a rich military history dating back to the **1820s**, when **Fort Snelling** served as a key frontier outpost, protecting settlers and maintaining peace with Native American tribes. While Fort Snelling is no longer an active military installation, Minnesota remains home to one major military base: **Camp Ripley**.

### **Camp Ripley**

**Minnesota’s Premier National Guard Training Facility**

Camp Ripley is the **primary training center for the Minnesota National Guard**, serving as a crucial location for military exercises, law enforcement training, and emergency preparedness drills. Established in **1929**, the base was developed to provide a more **suitable and centralized training site** for the National Guard.

Its **location in central Minnesota** allows for **large-scale training operations** while remaining accessible to major cities like **Minneapolis and St. Paul**. The base covers approximately **53,000 acres**, offering ample space for a variety of military training needs.

#### **Key Functions of Camp Ripley**

- **National Guard Training:** The base supports **unit readiness, field exercises, and specialized training** for Minnesota's Army National Guard.
- **Law Enforcement Training:** Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies use Camp Ripley for **tactical training and emergency response drills**.
- **Environmental Conservation:** The base actively participates in **sustainable land management** and conservation programs to protect its natural surroundings.
- **Emergency Preparedness:** Camp Ripley plays a vital role in **statewide disaster response efforts**, preparing first responders for **natural disasters, public safety emergencies, and crisis management scenarios**.

Camp Ripley remains a **cornerstone of military readiness** for Minnesota, ensuring that both the National Guard and civilian emergency responders are well-equipped to handle any challenge.

For more information, visit the **Camp Ripley website**.

### **Relocating to Minnesota? We Can Help!**

If you are preparing for a **PCS move to Minnesota**, **VeteranPCS** connects you with **veteran-friendly real estate agents and lenders** who specialize in military relocations. Whether you need housing near **Camp Ripley or in major metropolitan areas**, our team is here to make the transition easier.

[**Find a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender in Minnesota Today**](https://veteranpcs.com/minnesota)**!**

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

**1. What is Camp Ripley primarily used for?**
Camp Ripley serves as a **training center for the Minnesota National Guard, law enforcement agencies, and emergency response teams**. It supports unit readiness, field exercises, and crisis management training.

**2. Can civilians access Camp Ripley?**
While Camp Ripley is an active training base, it also hosts **public tours and educational events**. The **Minnesota Military Museum**, located on base, is open to the public and provides insight into the state’s military history.

**3. Does Camp Ripley have an active-duty military presence?**
Camp Ripley primarily supports **National Guard and Reserve forces**, rather than active-duty military personnel. However, **joint training exercises with other branches of the military** do take place regularly.

**4. What makes Camp Ripley unique?**
The base is known for its **commitment to environmental conservation** while serving as a modern military training center. It features **state-of-the-art simulation facilities**, **live-fire training areas**, and **one of the largest solar farms in Minnesota**, which helps reduce its environmental impact.

**5. How can I find housing near Camp Ripley?**
VeteranPCS offers **military-friendly real estate services** to help active-duty personnel, veterans, and National Guard members find housing near **Camp Ripley or other areas in Minnesota**.

If you're planning a **PCS move to Minnesota**, let **VeteranPCS** connect you with trusted real estate agents and lenders who understand the unique needs of military families.

[**Find a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender Now**](https://veteranpcs.com/minnesota)**!**