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Fort Drum

Fort Drum, New York, United States

Fort Drum, located in upstate New York, is a military installation that also serves as a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities. As one of the largest Army base…

#Military base#Army installation#Training facility#Northern New York#United States

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Fort Drum.

Top Hotels in Fort Drum

Top Flights to Fort Drum

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Fort Drum.

Tours

Fort Drum Military Museum

Explore the history of Fort Drum and its military significance.

Thompson Park Zoo and Conservancy

Visit a small zoo housing native wildlife, with picnic areas and scenic views.

Shopping

Salmon Run Mall

A large shopping mall offering a wide variety of stores and dining options.

Outdoor

Black River Trail

A scenic trail along the Black River, ideal for hiking and biking.

Dry Hill Ski Area

Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the local ski area during the winter months.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Fort Drum.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, Spanish

Average weather

Fort Drum

Jan

-2°-12°

Feb

-1°-11°

Mar

4°-7°

Apr

12°0°

May

19°6°

Jun

24°12°

Jul

27°15°

Aug

26°14°

Sep

21°9°

Oct

14°3°

Nov

7°-2°

Dec

1°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Fort Drum.

What people love

Fort Drum, located in New York, offers a unique experience for travelers with various pros:

Military History and Culture: Fort Drum is an active military installation and home to the 10th Mountain Division. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the U.S. Army through guided tours and museums on base.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area of Fort Drum is known for its natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. Nearby attractions include the Adirondack Mountains and Thousand Islands region.
Community Events: Fort Drum hosts various community events and activities throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and interact with military personnel and their families.
Support for Military Families: Travelers visiting Fort Drum can show their support for the military community by participating in volunteer programs, attending military ceremonies, or simply engaging in conversations with service members and their families.
Accessibility: Fort Drum is conveniently located near major cities like Syracuse and Watertown, making it easily accessible for travelers looking to explore the region or attend events on the base.

Overall, traveling to Fort Drum can offer a unique insight into military life, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a chance to support the men and women serving in the U.S. Army.

Please note that some activities and access to certain areas of the base may be restricted due to security measures. It's recommended to check for any specific requirements or restrictions before planning your visit.

What to know

There are several potential cons to consider when traveling to Fort Drum, located in northern New York state:

Weather: Fort Drum experiences cold and snowy winters, which can make travel and outdoor activities challenging. Extreme weather conditions may also impact road conditions and transportation options.
Remote Location: Fort Drum is situated in a relatively rural area, which may limit access to amenities, services, and entertainment options compared to more urban destinations. Limited dining, shopping, and entertainment options may be a drawback for some travelers.
Military Presence: As a military installation, Fort Drum may have restricted access to certain areas, increased security measures, and potential noise disturbances from military operations or training exercises.
Limited Accommodation Options: Accommodation choices near Fort Drum may be limited, and options may be primarily geared towards military personnel and their families. This could result in higher prices or limited availability during peak travel times.
Lack of Public Transportation: Public transportation options to and from Fort Drum may be limited, making it more challenging for travelers without a personal vehicle to explore the surrounding area or nearby attractions.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While Fort Drum offers opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and camping, the area may lack significant tourist attractions or cultural sites compared to other destinations.

It's important to research and plan accordingly to address these potential cons and make the most of your trip to Fort Drum.

Fort Drum is a U.S. Army military reservation located in Jefferson County, New York, near the city of Watertown. It has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and has played an important role in the training and readiness of the U.S. Army.

Early History:

Pine Camp (1908): The area that is now Fort Drum was initially established as Pine Camp in 1908. It was used as a training site for the New York National Guard and other military units.
Expansion during World War I: During World War I, Pine Camp was expanded to accommodate the training needs of the U.S. Army.

World War II:

Camp Drum (1940): The camp was further expanded in 1940 and renamed Camp Drum in honor of Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum, a distinguished commander in World War I and chief of the First Army during World War II.
Expansion and Training: During World War II, the camp saw significant expansion, with the construction of numerous buildings and infrastructure to support the training of Army divisions.

Cold War Era:

Permanent Facility: In 1951, Camp Drum became a permanent training facility.
10th Mountain Division: In 1985, the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) was reactivated at Fort Drum. This marked a significant development in the history of Fort Drum, as the division became a key component of the U.S. Army's rapid deployment forces.

Post-Cold War and Modern Era:

Operation Desert Storm: The 10th Mountain Division played a role in various operations, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
Global War on Terror: Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division have been heavily involved in the Global War on Terror since 2001, with deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq.

Significant Events and Landmarks:

Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield: This airfield is a crucial part of Fort Drum, providing air support and training facilities.
Memorial Park: A site within Fort Drum dedicated to honoring soldiers who have served and sacrificed.
Cultural Resources: Fort Drum is home to various archaeological sites and historic buildings, reflecting its long history.

Important Figures:

Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum: For whom the fort is named, played a significant role in the Army's history during the early 20th century.

Overall, Fort Drum has evolved from a simple training ground to a major military installation with a critical role in the United States Army's operations and readiness. It continues to serve as a vital training location for the 10th Mountain Division and other units.