Fort Hood is known as the most populous U.S. military base in the world, with a population of 23,508 and counting with almost 6,000 households onsite. The military base was founded in 1942 at the start of World War II as a training site for tank destroyers. Its presence helped boost the economic and population growth of surrounding cities. Fort Hood has been an active military base throughout World War II, the Cold War, and Vietnam War up until the present. 

Outdoors

The Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area (BLORA) is just outside the base and is open to the public. It’s the perfect place for all manner of outdoor fun, including fishing, kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing, tubing, boating, cottage and pavilion rentals, picnicking, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and more! There are even paintball, challenge, and climbing wall sites to check out!

Historical Sites

The new National Mounted Warrior Museum will be opened in 2023 and will replace the current 1st Cavalry Division Museum and 3rd Cavalry Regiment Museum, which are set to close their doors soon. Stay tuned for more info on the National Mounted Warrior Museum! The 4th Infantry Division Monuments are on base and beautifully commemorate soldiers past. All you need is a pass in order to be able to visit this great on-base site. 

Arts & Entertainment

Stopping by Fort Hood for the annual Independence Day fireworks display is a must if you’re nearby in early July! It’s one of the largest fireworks displays in the United States and is open to the public (you just need an access pass from the Welcome Center).