---
title: What Military Bases are in Wisconsin?
slug: what-military-bases-are-in-wisconsin
description: Find every active military base in Wisconsin—Fort McCoy anchors the state’s active installation roster—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan, and agent matches.
publishedAt: 2024-07-16T15:09:03.000Z
updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z
author: VeteranPCS
categories: [US Military Bases]
canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-wisconsin
---

# What Military Bases are in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has a deep military history dating back to its early territorial days. Settlers formed militias to protect their communities, and in **1851**, these militias formally became the **Wisconsin National Guard**. The state played a significant role in the **Civil War**, contributing over **90,000 troops** to the Union Army. Today, Wisconsin is home to **one major military installation** that continues to serve as a vital training center for U.S. forces.

### **Fort McCoy**

**Fort McCoy** was established in **1942**, built on land that had been used as a **Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp** during the Great Depression. As World War II intensified, the U.S. Army identified the need for additional training facilities and converted the area into a **military training center**.

During the war, Fort McCoy served multiple purposes:

- **Training Grounds** – Provided advanced training for troops before deployment.
- **Prisoner of War Camp** – Held thousands of **German and Italian soldiers** captured in Europe.
- **Japanese POW Facility** – Became the **largest permanent holding site** for Japanese prisoners of war in the continental United States.

Following World War II, Fort McCoy continued to evolve. Throughout the **Cold War**, it remained a key **training and mobilization center** for U.S. forces, ensuring troops were prepared for deployment.

Today, the base serves as one of the Army’s **primary training locations for large-scale military exercises**. It hosts **Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve units**, providing a **realistic training environment** for forces preparing for global missions.

For more details, visit the official base website: **Fort McCoy**

### **PCS to Wisconsin? We Can Help**

If you are preparing for a **Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Fort McCoy**, our **military-friendly real estate agents and lenders** can assist you with:

- **Finding homes near the base**
- **Understanding VA loan options**
- **Navigating the local housing market**

Wisconsin offers a **strong military support network**, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. Whether you plan to **buy or rent**, having the right real estate professionals by your side makes all the difference.

[**Connect with an experienced real estate expert today!**](https://www.veteranpcs.com/wisconsin)

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

**1. What is Fort McCoy primarily used for today?**
Fort McCoy is a **training and mobilization center** for **Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard** forces, conducting large-scale military exercises year-round.

**2. Are there housing options available on base?**
Fort McCoy does not offer **on-base family housing**, but there are **military-friendly communities** nearby, including **Tomah and Sparta**, where many service members choose to live.

**3. What makes Wisconsin a good place for military families?**
Wisconsin has a **low cost of living**, **highly rated schools**, and **plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities**. The state also offers **veteran-friendly tax benefits** and **employment support programs** for military families.

**4. How can I use a VA loan to buy a home near Fort McCoy?**
VA loans provide **zero down payment financing** with competitive interest rates. Our **VA loan specialists** can help you navigate the process and secure the best financing options for your home purchase.

**5. What should I know before moving to Wisconsin?**
Be prepared for **cold winters**, but also enjoy the **strong military community, great schools, and a welcoming environment**. Connecting with a **local real estate agent** who understands military relocations can make your transition smoother.

### **Moving to Wisconsin? Let Us Help**

If you’re **PCSing to Fort McCoy**, let our **veteran-friendly real estate agents** assist you in finding the right home. [**Reach out today**](https://www.veteranpcs.com/wisconsin) to get started!