Fort Carson, CO

Fort Carson, located near Colorado Springs, Colorado, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1940s. The history of Fort Carson is closely intertwined with the expansion and development of the United States military during and after World War II.

In 1941, the United States Army established Camp Carson, named after General Christopher Carson, better known as Kit Carson, a prominent explorer and frontiersman. The camp was established as a training facility for the 89th Infantry Division before their deployment to Europe during World War II. The original site covered over 120,000 acres and had an initial construction cost of $32 million.

During the war, Camp Carson served as a crucial training ground for various infantry divisions, including the 4th Infantry, 71st Infantry, and 104th Infantry Divisions. It became a center for mountain warfare training due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The training focused on preparing soldiers for the harsh and challenging terrains they might encounter in Europe.

After the war, Camp Carson saw a period of reduced activity, as troops returned home and military operations scaled down. However, it remained an important training area and hosted various units during the Korean War in the early 1950s.

In 1954, Camp Carson was re-designated as Fort Carson, signifying its transition to a permanent military installation. During the Cold War era, the fort played a significant role in training troops to defend against potential Soviet threats. It also saw various military exercises and deployments during this time.

The 1960s brought significant changes to Fort Carson. The base became a major training site for the Vietnam War, with troops undergoing intensive preparation before deployment. In addition to infantry training, the base also hosted aviation units, engineers, and medical personnel.

In the late 1980s and 1990s, Fort Carson underwent further expansion and modernization. New facilities were built, and the fort became a major Army unit home station. Today, it is home to the 4th Infantry Division, as well as several other units and organizations.

Fort Carson has also contributed to various military operations beyond its training role. Soldiers from the base have been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other conflict zones over the years, supporting combat operations, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian efforts.

Over the years, Fort Carson has grown into a major military installation, playing a vital role in training and preparing U.S. Army soldiers for a wide range of missions. It continues to be one of Colorado's largest employers and an essential part of the Colorado Springs community.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

A popular zoo featuring over 800 animals from around the world, nestled on the mountainside with beautiful views.

Garden of the Gods

A stunning natural landmark with unique rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Pikes Peak

A famous mountain known for its panoramic views, hiking trails, and the opportunity to drive or take a cog railway to the summit.

Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center

A facility where athletes from various sports train for the Olympics, offering guided tours and interactive exhibits.

United States Air Force Academy

The official training grounds of the U.S. Air Force, featuring a visitor center, chapel, and a museum highlighting the history and accomplishments of the Air Force.

Manitou Springs

A charming town located near Fort Carson, known for its mineral springs, quirky shops, art galleries, and access to various outdoor activities.

Dinosaur Resource Center

A museum dedicated to paleontology, showcasing a wide range of dinosaur fossils, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

American Numismatic Association Money Museum

A museum showcasing the history and art of money, with an extensive collection of rare coins, paper currency, and medals.

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

A cultural institution offering art exhibitions, theatrical performances, and educational programs.

Seven Falls

A series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by cliffs and canyons, accessed by a scenic drive or a short hike.

Fort Carson, Colorado experiences a semi-arid climate. Located in the high plains region of the state, Fort Carson has a generally low humidity level and receives moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year.

The summers in Fort Carson are typically warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (26-33 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing much-needed moisture to the area. Winters in Fort Carson are usually cold and dry, with temperatures in the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (around 0-5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is moderate, with occasional heavy snowstorms.

Spring and fall seasons in Fort Carson are relatively mild, with pleasant temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). These seasons tend to be windier, especially during spring.

Overall, Fort Carson experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. While the area can have hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, it generally benefits from a mild climate during spring and fall.

Fort Carson is a United States Army installation located in El Paso County, Colorado. While the immediate area surrounding the base is not densely populated, there are several nearby neighborhoods that offer housing options for military personnel and their families. Here are a few of the neighborhoods near Fort Carson:

Security-Widefield

Located to the east of Fort Carson, Security-Widefield is a sprawling suburb that is home to many military families. This neighborhood offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It has a suburban feel with amenities such as shopping centers, parks, and schools.

Fountain

Situated to the southwest of the base, Fountain is a small town that offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment. The neighborhood has a mix of affordable housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. It features parks, community centers, and local shops.

Colorado Springs

As the largest city in the area, Colorado Springs offers a wide range of neighborhoods that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Many military families choose to live in neighborhoods close to Fort Carson for convenience. Areas such as Broadmoor, Old Colorado City, Briargate, and Southeast Colorado Springs are popular choices. Each neighborhood has its own character, amenities, and housing options.

Falcon

Located to the northeast of Fort Carson, Falcon is a rapidly growing community offering a suburban and semi-rural environment. It includes various housing options, including single-family homes, ranches, and acreage properties. Falcon has a tight-knit community with local schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

Manitou Springs

Situated to the west of Fort Carson, Manitou Springs is a picturesque mountain town with a vibrant arts scene and natural beauty. The neighborhood offers a mix of historic homes, cabins, and contemporary housing options. Manitou Springs provides a unique living experience in close proximity to outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking trails, biking routes, and the stunning Garden of the Gods.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods near Fort Carson, each with its own distinct features and benefits. It is advisable to research more about each neighborhood's amenities, school districts, and transportation options to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and needs.