Naval Support Facility Dahlgren
Naval Support Facility Dahlgren Relocation Information

Photo by Andrew Revelos, Naval Support Activity South Potomac
Welcome to Naval Support Facility Dahlgren
Welcome to NSF Dahlgren. This East Coast base has a long history of providing warfare to protect our country. While that mission used to make NSF Dahlgren the site for testing naval guns and ammunition, today, it is much quieter as it's focused on developing and integrating warfare systems. While the division's headquarters is in Dahlgren, their efforts provide Fleet support to the NSF Dahlgren Division Dam Neck Activity in Virginia Beach, VA.
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U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cyrus Roson/Released
ATLANTIC OCEAN – The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) fires its MK46 30mm gun during a live-fire exercise. Navy scientists and engineers evaluated a strike group’s Aegis combat system and gun weapon systems – including the 30 millimeter gun – as well as unmanned vehicles integrated with surface and air assets at the 2016 USS Dahlgren demonstration, Aug. 30. The test – made possible by a cybernetic laboratory called USS Dahlgren – proved engagement coordination across the simulated battlegroup and live fire destruction of multiple targets from two combatants utilizing two different gun-based systems. “This has been five to six years in the making and couldn't come at a better time as we see real-world events such as the recent small boat incursions in the Middle East, highlighting the need for the Fleet,” said Capt. Brian Durant, NSFDD commanding officer.
NSF Dahlgren competes globally to ensure the U.S. has the most innovative and integrated warfare systems.
Here, you’ll also find:
- Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center Detachment Dahlgren
- Sea-Based Weapons Systems, Naval Supply Facility Dahlgren Division
- The Center for Surface Combat Systems
- The Aegis Training and Readiness Center
- The Joint Warfare Analysis Center
- The U.S. Space Force 18th Space Control Squadron Detachment 1
Frequently Asked Questions about NSF Dahlgren
1. Where is NSF Dahlgren located?
The Naval Supply Facility Dahlgren Division (NSF) is in Dahlgren, VA, nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. It sits approximately 23 miles east of Fredericksburg, VA. Colonial Beach and King George sit within a 15-mile radius of Dahlgren, while Port Royal and Bowling Green, VA, sit about 30 minutes from the base.
2. Is there military housing at NSF Dahlgren?
Yes, military housing is offered at NSF Dahlgren. On-base, housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing and consists of 234 homes within five communities. See more info in the Housing Section.
3. How many gates does NSF Dahlgren have?
NSF Dahlgren has two gates:
- A Gate (Main Gate): open 24/7 for all visitors.
- B Gate: open Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for DOD ID holders.
Gate hours can be found on the Visitor Information page of the NSF Dahlgren website.
4. Who is NSF Dahlgren named for?
The warfare center was named for Rear Admiral John Adolphus Dahlgren, a Civil War Navy commander known as the “father of modern naval ordnance.”
5. What is the zip code for Dahlgren NSF?
The zip code for Dahlgren NSF is 22448. Other nearby zip codes include 22554, 20603, and 22443.
6. What is the BAH for Dahlgren NSF?
BAH for NSF Dahlgren ranges from $2,307 for E-1 to $2,955 for E-9 with dependents, and $2,367 for O-1 to $3,564 for O-6 with dependents. See the BAH section for more info.
Naval Supply Facility Dahlgren Address:
6149 Welsh Road
Dahlgren, VA 22448

Image from nps.edu
NSF Dahlgren is located in Dahlgren, VA, between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. The closest towns to the base are Colonial Beach and King George. Fredericksburg is approximately 35 minutes east of Dahlgren, and Stafford, VA, is about 50 minutes north.
This duty station lends itself to outdoor adventures and convenience to larger outings, whether you’re heading to downtown Fredericksburg, venturing out for a weekend of camping at Shenandoah National Park, or seeking a glamorous night away at the nation’s capital in D.C.
Nearby military installations:
Arrival Lodging
NSF Dahlgren Lodging Contact Info
Navy Gateway Inns and Suites Dahlgren
Naval Support Facility Dahlgren
17458 Potomac Inn Road Bldg. 960
Dahlgren, VA 22448
(540) 469-4174
NSF Dahlgren Housing

Photo from Liberty Military Housing
On-base housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing, which offers five neighborhoods with one- to four-bedroom homes. The communities include the average cost of utilities and access to community rooms, jogging trails, a splash pad, a pool, and more.
Liberty Military Housing Contact Info
6136 Jenkins Road
Suite 205
Dahlgren VA 44228
(540) 501-5249
6136 Jenkins Road
Suite 205 Bldg. 142
Dahlgren, VA 22448
Phone: (540) 653-8505/8506
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
NSF Dahlgren Off-Base Housing
Homes for sale and houses for rent near NSF Dahlgren—NSF Dahlgren Homes

Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash
Base Search
Search by City
Military families with orders to NSF Dahlgren have several options for finding a place to live nearby. Fredericksburg, VA, can be a good pick for those willing to drive about 45 minutes to and from work, as it offers many housing options among a larger military community. Others, seeking a home closer to base in a small town, might look in Colonial Beach or cross the bridge to Maryland. The cost of housing in Dahlgren, VA is slightly higher than the national average.
BAH Information
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a U.S.-based allowance determined by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed servicemembers' compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets when government quarters are not provided. Learn more about your Basic Allowance for Housing.
NSF Dahlgren is near Dahlgren and Fredericksburg, VA, with many options to buy or rent. The NSF Dahlgren BAH is close to the cost of living in the area. Some sample NSF Dahlgren BAH rates for zip code 22448:
- E-1 with dependents: $2,307
- E-1 without dependents: $2,013
- E-9 with dependents: $2,955
- E-9 without dependents: $2,514
- O-1 with dependents: $2,367
- O-1 without dependents: $2,301
- O-6 with dependents: $3,564
- O-6 without dependents: $2,823
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Area Weather and Climate
Families living at NSF Dahlgren get to experience all four seasons. While the winters are cold and sometimes snowy, the summers are hot and humid. The springtime brings rain and blooming flowers, and the fall is picture-perfect, with brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow best seen at the Shenandoah National Park.
Residents' biggest concern is hurricanes, which run from April through November. For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
NSF Dahlgren Area Schools
NSF does offer a DoDEA school for military families. Dahlgren School provides education for grades Pre-K through Grade 8. Families who live off-base fall under the King George County Public Schools.

Image from Sharp School
For those looking for a private school education for their children, Private School Review is a great tool to help you find the right fit for the family. Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Virginia Department of Education homeschool regulations.
For any questions or concerns, contact the NSF Dahlgren School Liaison Officer.
NSF Dahlgren School Liaison Officer Contact Information
6027 School House Lane Bldg. 214
Dahlgren, VA 22448
Phone: (540) 653-2070
Email: [email protected]
Support for Military and Families

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
NSF Dahlgren is the area’s largest employer; however, those looking for work off-base can find more options in Fredericksburg, VA.
Looking to volunteer? Try these organizations:
Higher education near NSF Dahlgren:
Other helpful links:
Things to Do Near NSF Dahlgren
Caledon State Park: The Caledon State Park sits just west of NSF Dahlgren and is a National Landmark known for its old-growth forest and summer home to many American bald eagles. The park offers trails leading to the Potomac River, a visitor center, and picnic areas. The park is a great attraction for bird watchers of all ages and an opportunity to breathe fresh air.
Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail: This 16-mile trail is open for walking, running, and cycling. It runs alongside the historic 1940s Dahlgren Branch Trail line and 240 acres of the preserved sanctuary of native wildlife and natural beauty.
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park: Visit nearby battlefields like Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania.
Old Town Fredericksburg: Visit the charming historic city of Fredericksburg, VA. Stroll among more than 350 original 18th and 19th-century buildings in Fredericksburg’s 40-block National Historic District. With over 100 shops, chef-owned restaurants, and boutiques along the Rappahannock River, there is something here for everyone.
Fredericksburg Nationals: For all baseball lovers, a visit to see the Fredericksburg Nationals is a must. This minor league baseball team is a single affiliate of the Washington Nationals. Games usually begin in April and conclude in September. Season tickets are available as well as event space.
Westmoreland State Park: Located approximately 20 miles south of NSF Dahlgren on the Potomac River’s Northern Neck, this park has riverfront beaches, hiking/biking trails, and boat rentals. You can rent a cabin and explore the beaches while hunting for shark teeth and other fossils. Fun fact: this state park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
More Area Info
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Base Address:
6149 Welsh Road
Dahlgren
,
22448