Yorktown Naval Weapons Station
Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Base Relocation Information
Photo from Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Facebook Page
Welcome to Naval Weapons Station Yorktown
NWS Yorktown sits on land purchased for the Navy in 1918. At that time, it was known as the largest Navy base in the world. Its initial purpose was to provide ordnance support for the U.S. during WWI, but it quickly shifted into storing returned mines and ordnance support for peacetime. It wasn’t until 1919, when the aviation training camp was established at the Aviation Field Yorktown, that the base’s purpose expanded. In 1932, the Navy Mine Depot became the Naval Mine Depot as a reflection of the base’s expanded ordnance support. And in 1958 (the base’s 40th anniversary), the installation was renamed Naval Weapons Station Yorktown—another recognition of its ever-growing ordnance support.
Photo from Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Official Facebook Page
NWS Yorktown has 37 tenant commands including:
- Navy Munitions Command Atlantic (NMCLANT)
- Naval Ophthalmic Support and Training Activity (NOSTRA)
- Marine Corps Security Force Regiment (MCSFR)
- Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group (NAVELSG)
- Navy Expeditionary Medical Support Command (NEMSCOM)
- Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One (NCHB1)
Today, NWS Yorktown and its tenant commands work together to provide ordnance logistics, technical, and supply-related assistance to the Atlantic Fleet. The waters are busy as ships frequently depart port providing these services, earning this hub the title of one of the Navy’s most “explosive corridors” to the sea.
Frequently Asked Questions about NWS Yorktown
Photo from Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Official Facebook Page
1. Where is NWS Yorktown?
NWS Yorktown is located about three miles from downtown Yorktown and 35 miles north of Norfolk, VA. The base lies in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia and is quite large, measuring approximately 21 square miles—roughly 1/5 of the land in York County. Newport News, VA, sits just south of the base. Other nearby cities include Hayes, Toano, Williamsburg, Lenexa, Yorktown, Providence Ford, and Gloucester.
2. How many gates does NWS Yorktown have?
NWS Yorktown has two gates, Gate 1 and Gate 3.
- Gate 1 is automated and can be accessed 24/7 with a CAC card.
- Gate 3 is the main access gate and is also open 24/7.
3. Does NWS Yorktown have family housing?
Yes, there is family housing at NWS Yorktown. The housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing. See the housing section for more info.
4. What is the closest airport to Yorktown NWS?
The closest major airport to NWS Yorktown is the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), located in Newport News about seven miles from base.
5. What is the zip code for NWS Yorktown?
The zip code for Yorktown NWS is 23691. Other nearby zip codes include 23693, 23662, and 23185.
6. What is the BAH for NWS Yorktown?
BAH for Yorktown NWS ranges from $1,857 for E-1 to $2,457 for E-9 with dependents, and $2,061 for O-1 to $2,856 for O-7 with dependents. See the housing section for more info.
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Photo by Steven Tung on Unsplash
NWS Yorktown sits just a few miles north of Newport News and about 35 miles north of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake, situating you just outside most of the Hampton Roads hustle and bustle. One thing that you’ll notice quickly is the large and proud military community here. And you’ll find lots of resources designed to make your life here more enjoyable, since there are over a dozen military installations in your backyard.
Nearby military installations:
In addition to a substantial military community and resources at your fingertips, you’ll find many fun local things to do near Yorktown. This charming town hosts various community events bringing locals together to celebrate with food and entertainment. Williamsburg is a quick drive from NWS Yorktown, making it easy to take advantage of attractions like Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and more.
Arrival Lodging
Photo from dodlodging.net
The Navy Gateway Inns & Suites
NWS Yorktown Cheatham Annex
532 4th St.
Williamsburg, VA 23185
757-847-9511
NWS Yorktown On Base Housing
Photo from Liberty Military Housing — Yorktown Facebook Page
On base housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing -Yorktown. Liberty offers military families four different communities, two of which are off-base in Newport News. The neighborhoods offer access to a community pool, splash pads, and various outdoor centers.
Liberty Military Housing
NWS Yorktown
2099 Von Steuben Drive
Newport News, VA 23603
757-849-0854
Navy Housing Service Center
1970 Don Steuben Drive
Newport News, VA 23603
757-847-7806
Yorktown_Housing@navy.mil
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am - 4 pm
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NWS Yorktown Off Base Housing
Homes for sale and houses for rent near NWS Yorktown—NWS Yorktown Homes
Photo by Ian MacDonald on Unsplash
Base Search
City Search
Newport News:
Yorktown:
If you’re looking to buy or rent off base, you’ll soon learn that the base’s location gives service members plenty of housing options. Those looking for a busier lifestyle may like Newport News which lies about 20 minutes south of base. However, if you're looking for a wider selection of homes, a bit more space, and a quieter neighborhood, Yorktown or Williamsburg might be the better option. At first glance, you’ll notice beautiful colonial homes, but remember that these architecturally handsome homes often come with a higher price tag.
Yorktown’s cost of living rests slightly higher than the national average. The median home price is $385K as of August, 2022.
NWS Yorktown 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.
NWS Yorktown is near Yorktown, Hampton, Newport News, and Williamsburg, VA with many options to buy or rent. The NSW Yorktown BAH is close to the cost of living in the area. Some sample Naval Weapons Station Yorktown BAH rates for zip code 23691:
- E-1 with dependents: $1,857
- E-1 without dependents: $1,437
- E-9 with dependents: $2,457
- E-9 without dependents: $2,079
- O-1 with dependents: $2,061
- O-1 without dependents: $1,665
- O-7 with dependents: $2,856
- O-7 without dependents: $2,406
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Area Weather and Climate
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In the Hampton Roads region, you’ll experience four distinct seasons. Most notably, the summers are hot and muggy and the winters are cold and windy. You’ll notice cooler months as fall creeps in and warm breezes in the spring. Rain is normal year ‘round and snow is a special occurrence when the conditions are right.
The biggest concern residents in this region face are hurricanes. Hurricane season runs from April to November. For more information about hurricane preparedness in this area, visit York County Virginia.
NWS Yorktown Area Schools
Photo from York County School Division Facebook Page
There are no DoDEA schools offered at NWS Yorktown. Depending on where families choose to live, students will likely attend Yorktown County School Division or Newport News Public Schools unless you settle further from NWS Yorktown.
If you’re looking for a private school education for your children, Private School Review for Yorktown, VA is a great tool to help find the right fit for your family. Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Virginia Department of Education homeschool regulations.
For any questions or concerns, contact the Yorktown School Liaison:
2101 Von Steuben Dr.
Newport News, VA 23603
(757) 887-7311
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Support for Military and Families
Photo by Klara Kulikova on Unsplash
Some of the most in-demand jobs in the Yorktown area, according to James City County Government, include distributors/warehouse operators, hospitality/tourism/entertainment, manufacturers, medical/healthcare, retail jobs and the public sector. The unemployment rate for this region is fairly on par for the national rate.
Some of the area’s top employers:
Looking to volunteer? Try these organizations:
Higher education near NWS Yorktown:
Other helpful links:
Things to Do Near NWS Yorktown
Photo from Colonial Williamsburg Facebook Page
Colonial Williamsburg: It’s hard to beat a trip to Colonial Williamsburg. Not only will you be transported back to the 1700s, but you'll experience it interactively, making it a historical hit for all members of the family. Tour historical buildings, see a live-action reenactment of the first settlers and even eat at a period restaurant.
Yorktown Battlefield: Explore the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War, where Britain's General Cornwallis surrendered to General Washington. Head to the park visitor center to begin your visit where you can view a film, explore the museum, and take one of the ranger guided tours. Historic Yorktown is just a short walk from the visitor center, you can also take a free trolley around the village.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg: A huge perk to Naval Weapons Station Yorktown is its proximity to Busch Gardens. While this attraction is sure to be a favorite on any given day, the holidays are an especially fun time to visit.
Norfolk Zoo: Another family favorite is the Norfolk Zoo. Located 45 minutes southeast of the base, the zoo is an outing where the kids will find all their favorite animals, like lions, giraffes, and elephants. And don’t forget a change of clothes! Situated right out front is the splash garden, a perfect place for kids to cool off after walking to say hello to their nature friends.
Children’s Museum Of Virginia Portsmouth: There may be no better rainy day outing than a visit to the Children’s Museum. Come spend a few hours letting the kids explore and put their minds to work through imagination.
Virginia Air and Space Center: Expand your world at the Virginia Air & Space Science Center. Here, you can explore interactive displays and lose yourself in the newly renovated IMAX theater showcasing scientific discoveries.
Riverwalk Landing: Located along the York River, the landing has a great collection of riverfront dining, outdoor recreation, boutique shops and events. You can also have a sailing adventure on the Schooner Alliance and enjoy an ice cream or coffee after.
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg: The lodge is open in any weather and provides an enormous indoor water park for year round fun. Your stay at the lodge includes spacious suites, life jackets and towels at the water park, and family fun events. There are also a variety of dining options for the whole family.Other Area Info
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Base Address:
160 Main Road, Yorktown, VA 23691
Yorktown
,
23691-0160