You've probably heard of MCAGCC Twentynine Palms (mostly referred to as 29 Palms) described as "in the middle of nowhere." This desert duty station sits near Joshua Tree National Park, about one hour from Palm Springs, two and a half hours from Los Angeles, and about three hours from San Diego.
But MCAGCC 29 Palms' location often forms the foundation of the love story that unfolds between the base and the military families who live there.
Here's what to know before moving to 29 Palms.
Photo by M. Kaercher from Getty Images via Canva.com
What Should Military Families Know Before PCSing to 29 Palms?
Even though 29 Palms is home to the world's largest Marine Corps Base and the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), life here is quiet. There is minimal traffic, which is a drastic change from the traffic you may have experienced at MCB Quantico or Camp Pendleton.
Since 29 Palms sits isolated in the desert, the community relies heavily on each other. As a result, base organizations make a solid effort to host events to bring families together. For example, the base hosts Kids Bowl Free nights, Movie "Dive-Ins" (movies at the pool), and more. They also have an entire roster of other events. You can find them on the Marine Corps Community Services 29 Palms home page.
Before arriving, contact your local RAP to request a Welcome Aboard Package (WAP). It has helpful information about the base, Twentynine Palms, and nearby tri-state attractions. 29 Palms is close to Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico.
More important contacts for your PCS move:
The City of Twentynine Palms
The city of Twentynine Palms is located in the Morongo Basin, part of the southwestern portion of the Mojave Desert. The city is in the high desert and sits at elevations between 2,500 and 4,000 feet above sea level. The nearest mountains are the Little San Bernardino and Eagle Mountains, part of the Transverse Ranges.
Twentynine Palms gets its name from historical records written by gold miners, desert surveyors, and explorers who described the area by the number of palm trees near the Mara Oasis, although there are some discrepancies citing 26 or 29 palms.
Because of its location in the California desert, there's a heavy focus on appreciating the scenic vistas and outdoor activities. Hikers and bikers easily take in the expansive and stunning views no matter where they go, and the vast open space and minimal ambient lighting easily show off a night sky you'll never take for granted. A military assignment to Twentynine Palms offers a fantastic chance to experience rock and boulder climbing.
Where Do Military Families Live Near 29 Palms?
Every PCS military move requires you to consider whether you want to live on or off base. Many people suggest looking into MCAGGC Twentynine Palms Marine Base housing initially. Liberty Military Housing manages the 29 Palms homes within 15 communities. The neighborhoods have community centers, pools, and fitness centers.
If the housing list is full or you're interested in living off base, MilitaryByOwner has a current inventory of homes for sale and houses to rent nearby in Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree, and Yucca Valley.
Things to Do Near 29 Palms
Joshua Tree National Park
You can't live at 29 Palms without taking in the sights of the majestic Joshua Tree National Park. Because 29 Palms is the north entrance to the park, you'll have plenty of chances to hike, rock climb, and explore 800,000 acres of rock formations, ancient Joshua trees, wildflowers, and desert species. When you're finished, take advantage of the opportunity to camp at one of the nation's most beloved national parks.
Photo from Shutterstock
More Adventures Near 29 Palms
- Pioneertown lies near Yucca Valley and is an old, rustic town that is a must-see. Stop at Pappy and Harriet's for lunch while you're there.
- The Oasis of Mara is a natural spring on the grounds of the historic 29 Palms Inn, next to Joshua Tree National Park.
- The Palm Springs/Rancho Mirage area is a desert oasis with green golf courses and high-end shopping. It's the perfect trip you need to treat yourself.
Within three hours, you can visit Las Vegas, San Diego, and Los Angeles. In fact, Las Vegas hosts many of the 29 Palms Marine Corps Balls.
Advice from Military Spouses Who Know 29 Palms
Adrienne:
"Do not come into 29 Palms with a negative attitude. If you come in open-minded, this experience will be so much fun! Don't let the thought of being 'out in the middle of nowhere' care you because the quiet beauty of this place is something that everyone needs! I would be happy to come back again in the future without thinking twice."
Erin:
"29 Palms is a great place to live on base and get involved in the military community. If you join groups like Stroller Warriors, MSA (Military Spouses Association), DLS (Desert Leadership Seminar), and CWF (Christian Women's Fellowship), then building community is easy."
Sara:
"There is a saying that goes, 'You cry when you get to 29, and you cry when you leave.' I was definitely one who cried when my service member got orders to 29 Palms. Little did I know how much this place would mean to me in such a short time. The community here is the best military community anywhere we have been stationed. Twentynine Palms is great because of the friendships and connections you make here. It's a diamond in the rough."
As with all duty stations, 29 Palms is what you make it. You'll hear all the bad, but if you ask for it, you'll find all the good as well. This small town lends itself to outdoor adventures and can produce wonderful family memories.
Get more tips for your upcoming military move with our free PCS guide below.
