NAS Patuxent River, better known as Pax River, sits along the Patuxent River in Southern Maryland, overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.
The waterways are more than just a scenic backdrop. The Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, along with the region’s ties to Native American history and early European settlement, have helped shape the culture and lifestyle of Southern Maryland.
If you’re wondering what it's like to be stationed at NAS Patuxent River, here’s what to know about your new duty station.
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Getting to Know Naval Air Station Patuxent River
Today, NAS Pax River is home to the headquarters of Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).
The Marine Corps and the Coast Guard each have a detachment at NAS Pax River. About 18,000 active-duty service members, civilians, and contractors work at the base. NAS Pax River also includes two annexes: Webster Outlying Field and NRC Solomons.
NAS Patuxent River Housing
Where should military families live near NAS Patuxent River?
Popular communities near NAS Pax River include California, MD, about eight minutes from the installation, and Leonardtown, about 20 minutes northwest. Leonardtown has a charming downtown lined with art galleries, local eateries, shops, a historic town square, a winery, and a waterfront area. Both options offer the small-town community feel that many families appreciate.
Military housing at NAS Pax River is managed by Liberty Military Housing. Military families can choose from six neighborhood options, which offer playgrounds, trails, community events, and quick access to base amenities.
NAS Pax River Schools
NAS Pax River doesn’t provide DoDEA schooling, but off base, education options span from preschool through higher education. For K-12 students, school districts in the surrounding areas include St. Mary’s County Public Schools, Calvert County Public Schools, and Charles County Public Schools.
Nearby higher education options include the College of Southern Maryland, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland.
NAS Patuxent River's Coastal Lifestyle
Military families can enjoy plenty of outdoor opportunities around NAS Patuxent River. The easy access to the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River offers so many ways to enjoy coastal activities. Families can go boating, fishing, and crabbing near the base. Maryland's famous blue crab culture is everywhere: crab season, crab pots, crab cakes with Old Bay seasoning, crab traps, and crab-themed festivals, trinkets, and menu items.
To enjoy the waterways near NAS Pax River, check out seasonal kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals at West Basin Marina on base. You can also explore recreation and lodging options at the nearby Navy Recreation Center (NRC) Solomons. If you’ve wanted to try a new water sport, this duty station is the perfect chance to begin kayaking or paddleboarding.
Along the Chesapeake Bay, birds and other wildlife are part of the landscape, making the area a great location for birdwatchers and photographers. Ducks are especially popular with the locals. From painters and photographers to decoy makers, all kinds of artists dot the small business landscape near NAS PAX River.
Living by the bay and tidal waterways certainly has its perks, but if you aren’t used to living near wide-open water, you’ll want to get to know Maryland’s Hurricane Evacuation Guide and Know Your Zone program. These resources have helpful information about where to go, what to watch for, what supplies you’ll need, and more.
Access to Washington, DC, and Norfolk, VA
Although not directly in your backyard, Washington, DC, is within reach for a day or weekend trip or date nights in the nation's capital. Make sure you tap into NAS Pax River MWR and ITR resources for current discounts, attraction tickets, and other travel resources.
If you're looking for a longer getaway and more military amenities, head south toward Norfolk, Virginia. Norfolk has a large military population, and nearby Virginia Beach offers even more to explore. In the area, the Norfolk Zoo is a kid-friendly day trip.
Settling in at NAS Patuxent River
A PCS to NAS Pax River puts military families in the heart of Southern Maryland, where waterfront recreation, small-town communities, and centuries of history are all part of daily life. Whether you spend your weekends kayaking on the Patuxent River, exploring Leonardtown, or venturing to Washington, DC, there's plenty to discover both on and off base as you settle into your new duty station.
