Fort Stewart, GA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Fort Stewart is a major U.S. Army post in Georgia, the largest east of the Mississippi River. It is the home of the 3rd Infantry Division and a key center for military training and deployment.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Fort Stewart (officially Fort Stewart – Hunter Army Airfield) .
- Administrative Center: It is a United States Army post, not an incorporated city. It serves as the home installation for the 3rd Infantry Division of the U.S. Army . The city of Hinesville, Georgia, is located adjacent to the post and serves as the county seat of Liberty County, with which Fort Stewart is closely associated.
- Country and Region: The post is located in the U.S. state of Georgia, primarily within Liberty and Bryan counties, with portions extending into Evans, Long, and Tattnall counties . This region is known for its coastal geography, historic Southern cities like Savannah, and a strong military presence.
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding Year: The U.S. government began acquiring land for the post in 1940 as Camp Stewart, in preparation for World War II . It was redesignated as Fort Stewart in 1956 .
- Current Age: As of 2026, the installation is 86 years old since its founding in 1940.
- Founder and Namesake: The post is named after Brigadier General Daniel Stewart (1760-1829), a Liberty County native and a hero of the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. He was also the great-grandfather of President Theodore Roosevelt .
Geographic Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: The central point of the Fort Stewart area is at 31.8811° N, -81.6131° W.
- Location and Natural Surroundings: Fort Stewart is situated near the Atlantic coastal plain of Georgia, approximately 40 miles (64 km) southwest of Savannah and 225 miles southeast of Atlanta . The area is characterized by wetlands, lakes, and streams, with native longleaf pine forests that are actively managed .
- Elevation: The elevation in the Fort Stewart area varies, but the central point is given at 0 meters, though the surrounding terrain is generally low-lying coastal plain. The climate data indicates a plant hardiness zone where agriculture thrives .
- Settlement Type: It is a major U.S. military installation and census-designated place (CDP).
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Military and Industrial Center: Fort Stewart's primary function is as a major military installation and training center. It is the largest Army post east of the Mississippi River, spanning over 279,000 acres . Its economy is driven by the U.S. Department of Defense, with an annual economic impact of $4.9 billion on coastal Georgia .
- Key Units: It is the home of the 3rd Infantry Division, which includes armored brigade combat teams, an aviation brigade, and other support units .
- Training Hub: The post's extensive live-fire ranges and training areas support the full range of Army weaponry and can train up to 50,000 soldiers annually .
Population and Demographics
- Population: The installation supports a large military community. It is home to more than 10,000 soldiers and civilians who live on the post, and employs over 25,500 people . In total, it supports about 15,000 active-duty soldiers, 16,000 family members, and 5,100 military retirees .
- Population Class: This population size would classify it as a small town or large military base community.
- Demographic Features: The population is predominantly composed of active-duty U.S. Army personnel, their families, and civilian Department of Defense employees, creating a community with a strong military identity.
"City's Calling Card"
Fort Stewart is the U.S. Army's premier installation on the East Coast, a sprawling center of military readiness and the proud home of the 3rd Infantry Division, the "Rock of the Marne." It is a place of deep history, from its WWII origins to its crucial role in modern conflicts, where soldiers and their families live and train within a vast landscape of pine forests and training ranges.
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Fort Stewart is located on the coastal plain of Georgia, a region characterized by flat terrain and low hills. There are no significant mountains or mountain ranges on or near the installation. The nearest mountainous region, the Blue Ridge Mountains, is several hundred miles to the north.
Water Bodies
- The region's hydrology is defined by its wetlands, lakes, and streams, which provide habitat for diverse wildlife . While major named rivers flow through the region, the immediate area is characterized by smaller tributaries and man-made bodies of water supporting the base's ecosystem and recreational activities like fishing and boating .
Beaches and Coasts
- The installation itself does not have beaches. However, its location near the Georgia coast provides access to the Atlantic Ocean and its beaches, which are a short drive away and offer opportunities for swimming and sunbathing for military personnel and their families . The historic city of Savannah, with its coastal proximity, is about 40 miles away .
National and State Parks
- While there are no national parks within the immediate boundaries of Fort Stewart, the post's vast acreage includes protected woodlands and areas managed for environmental preservation. The buffer zones around the installation help protect the native longleaf pine forests . Nearby state parks and recreation areas in coastal Georgia offer additional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
- Fort Stewart has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, oppressive summers and short, mild winters . The area is also prone to occasional hurricanes and tropical storms due to its proximity to the Atlantic coast . It receives significant rainfall throughout the year.
Average Monthly Temperatures
- The hottest month is July, with an average high of 92°F (33°C) and an average low of 72°F (22°C) . The coldest month is January, with an average high of 62°F (17°C) and an average low of 40°F (4°C) . Average temperatures throughout the year are as follows :
- January: High 62°F (17°C), Low 40°F (4°C)
- February: High 65°F (19°C), Low 43°F (6°C)
- March: High 72°F (23°C), Low 48°F (9°C)
- April: High 78°F (26°C), Low 54°F (13°C)
- May: High 85°F (30°C), Low 62°F (17°C)
- June: High 89°F (32°C), Low 69°F (21°C)
- July: High 91°F (33°C), Low 72°F (22°C)
- August: High 90°F (32°C), Low 72°F (22°C)
- September: High 85°F (30°C), Low 68°F (20°C)
- October: High 78°F (26°C), Low 58°F (14°C)
- November: High 70°F (21°C), Low 49°F (9°C)
- December: High 64°F (18°C), Low 43°F (6°C)
Precipitation and Humidity
- The area receives significant rainfall, with an annual average of about 42 to 48 inches (1065-1224 mm) . The wettest month is August, with an average of 5.0 inches of rain, while November is the driest . Humidity levels are high, especially in summer, averaging around 81% .
Sunlight and UV Index
- The length of the day varies significantly, with the longest days (over 14 hours) in June and the shortest (just over 10 hours) in December . The UV index in summer is typically high, requiring sun protection.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from the 60s to mid-80s°F. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities before the summer heat and humidity set in .
- Summer (June-August): This season is hot, humid, and wet, with high temperatures often in the low 90s°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. It is the peak of the muggy season, with July having nearly 30 days of oppressive conditions . Activities are best planned for early morning or indoors.
- Fall (September-November): Similar to spring, fall offers comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, making it another ideal time for being outdoors. September can still be hot, but conditions improve by October .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are short and mild, with cool days and cold nights. Daytime highs are usually in the 60s°F, with nighttime lows occasionally dropping near freezing . This is a quiet time of year with less oppressive weather.
- Best Time to Visit: Based on weather, the best times for warm-weather activities are from early April to late May and from mid-September to late October .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- The region is prone to occasional hurricanes and tropical storms from the Atlantic Ocean, which can bring high winds and heavy rain .
Landmarks
Historic Cemeteries
- Within the training areas of Fort Stewart, several historic family cemeteries are preserved, offering a unique glimpse into the area's pre-military past. The Rimes Cemetery is one such site, located in the middle of the Booker Range. It is notable for being protected by a 15-20 foot berm used in military training and for containing the tallest monument on Fort Stewart, an 11.5-foot obelisk for Morgan T. Rimes (1856-1914) . Other preserved cemeteries include Corinth, Little Creek, and Thomas Hill, which are sometimes featured in historical tours .
Historic Armory Site
- The Historic Armory Site is a notable building located near the main post, close to Hinesville. It serves as a historic landmark from the early days of the installation .
M1A1 90mm Anti-Aircraft Gun
- A decommissioned M1A1 90mm Anti-Aircraft Gun is displayed as a security checkpoint and memorial, likely near the main entrance or historic areas of the post. It is situated near the Historic Armory Site .
Golf Course
- The installation is home to the Stewart-Hunter Golf Course, which features 36 holes of championship golf, providing recreational opportunities for military personnel and their families .
On-Post Recreation
- Fort Stewart offers various outdoor recreation facilities for its community, including Liberty Independent Troop Park, which has a playground, batting cages, and pavilions .
Transport
Major Airports
- The nearest major commercial airport is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (IATA: SAV) , located approximately 40 miles northeast of Fort Stewart, near Savannah . It serves as the primary air travel hub for the region.
- Hunter Army Airfield (IATA: SVN) , located in Savannah, is a key component of the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield installation. It features an 11,375-foot runway and over 350 acres of aircraft parking area, playing a critical role in the post's deployment capabilities . This field is used for military operations and is not a commercial passenger airport.
Major Highways
- Fort Stewart has easy access to several major highways, facilitating travel to and from the installation . Key routes include:
- Interstate 95 (I-95) : The main interstate along the East Coast, located a short drive east of the post, connecting Savannah to the north and Florida to the south.
- Highway 84 (US 84) : An east-west highway that runs through the region.
- Highway 119 (GA 119) and other state routes provide local access to the various gates of the installation .
Public Transportation
- Bus System: The city of Hinesville and the surrounding area are served by the Liberty Transit Authority, which operates a bus system with three regular routes. These routes include stops at key areas on and around Fort Stewart, such as the post exchange (PX), commissary, medical facilities, and shopping areas .
- Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Several taxi companies service the area. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate but require drivers to obtain a valid visitor pass from the Visitor Control Center (VCC) to access the installation .
Commuting
- The average one-way commute time for residents of Fort Stewart is 21.6 minutes, which is shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes. The vast majority of residents (over 64%) drive alone to work, which for most means remaining within the installation .
Museums
Third Infantry Division Museum
The main museum in the area is the Third Infantry Division Museum (3d Infantry Division Museum) . Located on the Fort Stewart army installation, this museum is dedicated to the history of the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Division. It features over 14,000 square feet of exhibit space, including an interactive gallery on the origins of Camp Stewart and its progression to Fort Stewart, as well as galleries presenting the history of the 3rd Infantry Division and portraits highlighting unit histories .
The museum's collection includes a future expansion for an Airfields and Aviation gallery and a display of military vehicles from the past. Admission is free, and while it is located on a military installation, non-Department of Defense card holders can access it through the visitor control center at the main gate .
Sport and Sports Legends
Sports Facilities and Local Athletics
Fort Stewart is home to Quick Track stadium, a recreational sports facility that has hosted youth track and field events, including the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association District 2 meet . This venue serves as a hub for young athletes in the region to compete in running and field events.
Youth Sports Programs
The Fort Stewart Youth Sports program is an active part of the community, fielding competitive teams in track and field. The program has a history of success, having won the District 2 track and field meet for multiple years, with many of its young athletes advancing to the Georgia State Track Meet . This program provides structured athletic development for children aged 7 to 14, helping them prepare for future athletic careers.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Georgia Southern University - Liberty Campus
While located in nearby Hinesville, Georgia Southern University's Liberty Campus is closely tied to Fort Stewart and serves the educational needs of the military community . This campus offers the resources of a large research university in a smaller setting, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 .
The Liberty Campus is ideal for starting a bachelor's degree, transferring to complete an undergraduate degree, or advancing into leadership roles. It offers Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees in the core curriculum, which allow students to prepare for upper-level specializations . All fees are waived for active-duty military students .
Fort Stewart Education Center and University Partnerships
The SFC Paul R. Smith Education Center on Fort Stewart serves as a central hub for higher education, offering service members and their families access to multiple degree programs . The center has established partnerships with several institutions to provide flexible educational opportunities.
- Georgia Southern University: In a formal partnership announced in 2023, Georgia Southern now offers graduate courses at the Fort Stewart Education Center in fields such as business administration, health administration, information technology, professional communication and leadership, and cybercrime . These courses are offered in shorter terms to accommodate the unique challenges faced by military students. Georgia Southern has been recognized as a "Military Friendly Gold School" for multiple years .
- Columbia College: This institution has a long-standing presence at Fort Stewart, offering in-seat courses on the military installation. Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and provides academic programs for military-affiliated students .
- Savannah Technical College: The Education Center also partners with Savannah Technical College to offer associate and bachelor's degree options .
The Education Centers at Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield are open to all members of the military community, offering not only degree programs but also certificate programs such as English as a Second Language, a General Education Diploma course, and a Basic Skills Education program .
Healthcare Institutions
Winn Army Community Hospital
The primary healthcare facility on the Fort Stewart installation is Winn Army Community Hospital (Winn ACH) . Located at 1061 Harmon Ave, this hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to military personnel, their families, and retirees .
Winn ACH is affiliated with 170 practicing physicians across 45 specialties, including Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, and Surgery . The hospital is highly regarded for its commitment to serving the military community with exceptional care .
Liberty Regional Medical Center
For the broader community of Hinesville and Liberty County, Liberty Regional Medical Center serves as the leading civilian healthcare facility . Located at 462 E G Miles Pkwy in Hinesville, this hospital offers a wide range of medical services and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. It has received positive reviews from patients for its compassionate care and efficient services .
Other Healthcare Facilities in the Area
The Fort Stewart area is supported by several other healthcare facilities to meet diverse medical needs:
- Liberty County Health Department (1113 E Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville): Plays a crucial role in public health, offering immunizations, family planning, and disease prevention programs .
- Coastal Manor (128 Coastal Manor Dr, Ludowici): A skilled nursing facility located near Fort Stewart, providing long-term care, rehabilitation services, and assisted living options for seniors .
- Liberty Regional Urgent Care (1113 E Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville): Provides immediate medical care for non-life-threatening conditions .
- US Army Emergency Care Clinic/Center (703 E 9 Street, Fort Stewart): An emergency care facility located on the installation for urgent medical needs .
Nearby Attractions in Richmond Hill
Just a short drive from Fort Stewart, the coastal city of Richmond Hill offers additional recreational and cultural opportunities . Nestled along the Ogeechee River, Richmond Hill is famous for being the winter home of Henry Ford, who transformed the area during his 25 years there. Visitors can explore the Coastal Bryan Heritage Trail, which includes 31 historic sites such as Ford's Richmond Hill Plantation home, the kindergarten and health clinic he built for the community, and the Civil War site of Fort McAllister .
Richmond Hill also features art galleries like the Photopoint Gallery and Midnight Star Pottery, as well as outdoor activities at Fort McAllister State Park, which offers boating, fishing, hiking, and camping .
National Parks Near Fort Stewart
For those willing to venture a bit further, several national park sites are within driving distance of Fort Stewart :
- Fort Pulaski National Monument (~15 miles from Savannah): A well-preserved 19th-century fort that played a significant role in the Civil War, offering tours, hiking trails, and scenic marsh views .
- Cumberland Island National Seashore (~85 miles to the ferry dock in St. Marys): A pristine barrier island with wild horses, historic ruins (Dungeness Mansion), and undeveloped beaches, accessible by ferry .
- Congaree National Park (~170 miles in South Carolina): Protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern U.S., with hiking trails and canoeing opportunities .