Fort Sill Oklahoma
Complete PCS & Relocation
Resource Guide
Everything military members, families, and civilians need to know about relocating to Fort Sill — from gate hours and BAH resources to schools, lodging, and community life in Lawton and Southwest Oklahoma.
About Fort Sill
Fort Sill is one of the U.S. Army's premier installations and a National Historic Landmark established in 1869. Located in Lawton, Oklahoma, in Comanche County, it serves as the home of the U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence — the home of the Army's Field Artillery School and Air Defense Artillery School. The installation spans approximately 94,000 acres and serves as a training hub for thousands of soldiers each year.
Location
Lawton, Oklahoma, Comanche County. The installation is within Lawton's city limits, with easy access via I-44 (H.E. Bailey Turnpike).
Mission
Home of the U.S. Army Field Artillery School, Air Defense Artillery School, and the Fires Center of Excellence. Also conducts Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training.
Community
One of the largest employers in Southwest Oklahoma, supporting approximately 24,000 soldiers and their families alongside thousands of civilian employees and contractors.
History
Established in 1869 and named after General Philip Sheridan, Fort Sill is one of the few remaining active frontier-era military posts in the United States. Over more than 150 years, the installation has grown from a small frontier outpost to one of the Army's most important training installations, playing a vital role in shaping artillery doctrine and developing the soldiers who serve in field artillery and air defense units worldwide.
Major Units
Visit the official Fort Sill website for the most current unit information and installation updates.
PCS Resources
A PCS move involves coordinating housing, schools, household goods, and more. Here is a practical timeline and the key resources to help you navigate your transition to Fort Sill smoothly.
Defense Travel Management Office
The DTMO is the official DoD resource for PCS policy, travel entitlements, and reimbursement guidance.
Visit DTMOBefore You Move
- Review your PCS orders and checklist through the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO)
- Contact the Fort Sill Transportation Office for household goods shipment guidance
- Book temporary lodging early — IHG Army Hotels fill up fast during peak PCS season (May–August)
- Research school options using our comprehensive Schools Guide
- Connect with your gaining unit's Family Readiness Group (FRG)
- Begin reviewing the current BAH rates for the Lawton/Fort Sill area
First 30 Days
- Check in with Army Community Service (ACS) at Fort Sill
- Register your vehicle and obtain a parking decal if living on-post
- Visit the School Liaison Officer if you have school-age children
- Set up utilities: see our Utilities & Services guide for local providers
- Register for DEERS and update your military personnel records
- Explore Lawton, Elgin, and Cache to find the right off-post community for you
- Connect with on-post recreation and MWR facilities
Settling In
- Explore the local area: restaurants, parks, and things to do
- Visit the Medicine Park area and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
- Check out weekly events to get involved in the community
- Review best restaurants and dining & nightlife guides
- Register for on-post sports leagues and recreation programs through MWR
- Connect with spouse employment resources through ACS
Transportation Office
The Fort Sill Transportation Office coordinates household goods (HHG) shipments, provides weight allowance information, and helps manage the logistics of your move. Contact them early in your PCS timeline to schedule your shipment and understand your entitlements.
Gate Information
Fort Sill has multiple gates with varying hours of operation. Two gates offer round-the-clock access, while others are open only during commuting hours. Always verify current hours before your visit, as they can change based on operational requirements.
Key Gate West
Primary round-the-clock gate, accessible from I-44 Exit 41 (H.E. Bailey Turnpike). This is the most commonly used gate for daily commuting and visitor traffic.
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Bentley Gate
Located at Sheridan Road and Rogers Lane, this gate provides another round-the-clock entry point and is convenient for traffic coming from central Lawton.
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Apache Gate
Serves traffic from the eastern side of the installation. Primarily used during weekday commuting hours.
Mon–Fri 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM · Sat 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Scott Gate
Provides access from the northern approach to the installation. Useful during peak commute times.
Mon–Fri 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM · Sat 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Key Gate East
Opens during weekday morning commute hours. Useful for personnel working on the eastern side of post.
Mon–Fri 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM
52nd Street Gate
A smaller access point open during weekday mornings, primarily for personnel commuting from the north.
Mon–Fri 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Access Requirements
- CAC Card holders — Active-duty military, DoD civilians, and contractors with a valid Common Access Card can enter through any open gate.
- Visitors — Must check in at the Visitor Control Center or be sponsored by a military member at the gate. A valid government-issued photo ID is required.
- Visitor Control Center — 6701 Sheridan Road, Fort Sill, OK 73503. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday.
Hours may vary based on operational requirements, holidays, or security conditions. Always check the official Fort Sill website for real-time gate status before planning your visit.
Visitor Information
Planning a visit to Fort Sill — whether for a graduation, to see the area before your move, or to explore on-post facilities? Here is what you need to know about accessing the installation.
Visitor Passes
All visitors to Fort Sill must check in at the Visitor Control Center or present a valid CAC card at the gate. Sponsored visitors receive a day pass. Unescorted access requires a background check and visitor badge.
Vehicle Requirements
All vehicles entering Fort Sill must have valid registration and proof of insurance. Seatbelts are mandatory on post. Speed limits are strictly enforced — typically 25 mph in garrison areas.
Prohibited Items
Firearms, ammunition, and certain weapons are prohibited unless stored in compliance with post regulations. Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia are strictly prohibited. All vehicles are subject to search at entry points.
Photography
Photography restrictions apply to most military installations. Avoid photographing controlled areas, personnel in uniform performing duties, or sensitive equipment. When in doubt, do not photograph.
Commissary & Exchange
Military ID holders and authorized patrons can access the commissary and Post Exchange (PX). Commissary access is generally limited to military personnel, retirees, and authorized dependents. The Exchange has broader access.
MWR Facilities
Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities on Fort Sill offer recreation programs, outdoor activities, and community events for military families and authorized patrons.
On-Post Museums & Attractions
Fort Sill National Historic Landmark & Museum
One of the oldest continuously active military posts in the Southwest, featuring exhibits on frontier-era military history, Native American heritage, and the post's role in shaping Oklahoma.
U.S. Army Field Artillery Museum
Dedicated to the history and development of Army field artillery, with extensive exhibits on weapons systems, campaigns, and the soldiers who served.
Chief's Mountain
A historic landmark on Fort Sill with cultural significance to the Comanche Nation. Offers views of the surrounding installation and prairie.
Fort Sill MWR
MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) facilities offer programs, activities, and community events for military families. Many MWR facilities are available to authorized patrons including family members and retirees.
Visit Fort Sill MWRBAH Resources
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a key part of your military compensation. Understanding how BAH works — and where to find current rates — helps you plan your housing budget before you arrive.
What Is BAH?
BAH is a monthly tax-free allowance paid to service members who do not receive government quarters. It is calculated based on three factors:
- Your pay grade (rank)
- Dependency status (with or without dependents)
- Duty station ZIP code (Lawton/Fort Sill area)
BAH rates are published annually by the Department of Defense and take effect January 1 each year. Rates remain constant for the calendar year, so checking at the start of the year gives you the most accurate figures for your planning.
Check Your Fort Sill BAH Rate
Use the official DoD BAH Rate Lookup tool to find your exact rate based on rank and dependency status. This is the most reliable source — always use the official calculator rather than third-party sites.
DoD BAH Rate CalculatorOff-Post Housing Market Context
The Lawton-Fort Sill area offers housing at price points well below the national average. Off-post rental and purchase options range from apartments and townhomes to single-family homes with yards. The specific communities of Lawton, Elgin, and Cache each offer different price ranges and commute distances to the installation.
For a broader look at the cost of living in the area, explore our community pages or visit MovingToLawtonOklahoma.com for current market information and home listings.
Household Goods & Moving Resources
Coordinating your household goods move is one of the most important parts of a PCS. Here are the key systems and resources that help manage the logistics.
Defense Personal Property System (DPS)
The official system for managing your household goods shipment. Use the DPS portal to schedule, track, and manage your HHG move online.
Visit DPS PortalTransportation Office
The Fort Sill Transportation Office coordinates household goods shipments, answers questions about weight allowances, and helps coordinate your move logistics.
Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY)
If you choose to move your own household goods (formerly called a DITY move), you can receive reimbursement through the PPM program. Contact the Transportation Office for current rates and guidelines.
Storage Options
The Lawton area has multiple self-storage facilities for short- or long-term needs. Options range from standard units to climate-controlled storage. Check availability during peak PCS season (May–August) as demand increases.
Utility Setup Checklist
Once you have a move-in date, contact each utility provider at least one to two weeks before you arrive. Here are the primary providers serving the Lawton-Fort Sill area:
Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) / AEP
Summit Utilities
City of Lawton Utility Services
City of Lawton Public Works
Multiple providers including cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite — availability varies by address
See our full Utilities & Services Guide for detailed provider information and setup tips.
For the most current information on household goods entitlements, weight allowances, and the Personally Procured Move (PPM) program, contact the Fort Sill Transportation Office or visit the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) portal.
Temporary Lodging
Whether you need a few nights between moves or a longer extended-stay option while you search for housing, Fort Sill and the surrounding Lawton area offer several choices for temporary lodging.
IHG Army Hotels — Fort Sill
Off-Post Hotels — General Categories
PCS Season Advisory
Peak PCS season runs from May through August. During this period, both on-post IHG Army Hotels and off-post hotels fill up quickly. Book your temporary lodging as early as possible — ideally as soon as you receive your orders. Extended-stay options are especially valuable during this period as they often offer better weekly and monthly rates compared to standard hotel pricing.
Maps & Directions
Fort Sill is centrally located in Southwest Oklahoma with convenient access from major highways and airports. Here is what you need to know about getting here.
Key Distances from Fort Sill
Driving Directions
From Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
Take I-44 South (H.E. Bailey Turnpike) approximately 80 miles southwest. The turnpike connects directly to Lawton and Fort Sill. Take Exit 41 for the Key Gate (Main Gate) of Fort Sill. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
From DFW Airport (Dallas)
Head north from DFW via US-287 or US-81 through Wichita Falls, TX. From Wichita Falls, take US-277 North or US-281 North toward Lawton, approximately 65 miles. Follow signs to Fort Sill. Total drive time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours.
From Lawton to Fort Sill Main Gate
The Key Gate (Main Gate) is accessible from I-44 Exit 41. From central Lawton, take NW Cache Road or Rogers Lane (US-62) west toward the installation. Most points in Lawton are a 5 to 15 minute drive from a Fort Sill gate. The Bentley Gate at Sheridan Road and Rogers Lane is another convenient option for traffic from the Lawton central area.
Nearby Highways
Connects Lawton to OKC and Springfield, MO
North-south highway connecting to Wichita Falls, TX
East-west highway through Lawton (Rogers Lane)
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Fort Sill Oklahoma?
Fort Sill spans approximately 94,000 acres in Comanche County, Oklahoma. It is one of the largest Army installations in the continental United States and serves as the home of the U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence.
What units are stationed at Fort Sill?
Fort Sill is home to the U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence, which includes the Field Artillery School and Air Defense Artillery School. Major units include the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, the 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade, and various Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) battalions supporting Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training.
How far is Fort Sill from Oklahoma City?
Fort Sill is approximately 80–86 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, a drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes via Interstate 44 (H.E. Bailey Turnpike). Will Rogers World Airport in OKC is the nearest major airport, roughly 81–85 miles away.
What are the gate hours at Fort Sill?
Fort Sill has multiple gates with varying hours. Key Gate West and Bentley Gate are open 24/7. Apache Gate and Scott Gate are open Monday–Friday 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Key Gate East and the 52nd Street Gate are open Monday–Friday 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may change — always check the official Fort Sill website for current information.
Where can I find current BAH rates for Fort Sill?
Current BAH rates for the Lawton/Fort Sill area are published annually by the Department of Defense and take effect January 1 each year. Use the official DoD BAH Rate Lookup tool at travel.dod.mil to find your exact rate based on rank and dependency status.
What schools are available near Fort Sill?
Military families have several school options. On-post, DoDEA schools serve elementary and middle school students. Off-post, Lawton Public Schools is the largest district. Nearby districts include Elgin Public Schools, Cache Public Schools, and Fletcher Public Schools. Visit our comprehensive Schools Guide for a complete overview.
What is there to do near Fort Sill Oklahoma?
The Lawton-Fort Sill area offers the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge for hiking and camping, Medicine Park for a charming resort-town experience, multiple lakes for fishing, and a growing dining and entertainment scene. See our Things to Do Guide for a complete list of activities.
How do I get a visitor pass for Fort Sill?
All visitors must check in at the Visitor Control Center at 6701 Sheridan Road, Fort Sill, OK 73503. Hours are 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Monday through Friday and 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday. You will need a valid government-issued photo ID. The sponsor (military member) may need to be present or provide authorization.
What utilities do I need to set up when moving to Lawton?
When moving to the Lawton area, you will need to set up electric service (primarily through Public Service Company of Oklahoma / PSO), water and sewer through the City of Lawton, natural gas through Summit Utilities, and choose an internet provider. Visit our Utilities & Services Guide for complete details.
Where can I find temporary lodging near Fort Sill?
IHG Army Hotels operates several facilities on Fort Sill, including the Holiday Inn Express Aultman Hall and Allin Hall. Off-post, multiple chain hotels are available along the I-44 corridor near the main gate and in downtown Lawton. Book early during peak PCS season (May–August) as lodging fills quickly.
Related Resources
Military Resources
PCS support, temporary lodging, and helpful links for military families.
Schools Guide
Public, private, and childcare options across Southwest Oklahoma.
Lawton Community
Schools, restaurants, parks, and attractions in Lawton, Oklahoma.
Healthcare Guide
Hospitals, urgent care, pediatricians, and medical services.
Things to Do
Wichita Mountains, Medicine Park, lakes, and outdoor recreation.
MovingToLawtonOklahoma.com
Relocation information, homes for sale, and videos about moving to Southwest Oklahoma.
Planning your PCS to Fort Sill? Travis has helped over 100 military families navigate their move to Southwest Oklahoma. He can answer your questions about neighborhoods, BAH, schools, and what to expect. Text him directly at (580) 647-0915 or book a quick Zoom call.
Travis Wright · REALTOR® · eXp Realty · License #206164