List of Active Military Bases in Iowa
Under the strict counting method used on this site, Iowa has no major active-duty federal installation listed as a separate base in the current directory. The state still has National Guard military facilities, which are shown separately below.
Military Bases in Iowa
The current MilitaryINSTALLATIONS directory mainly shows National Guard locations in Iowa rather than a major active-duty federal base. We keep those Guard locations separate so the count stays consistent with other state articles.
Air National Guard Facilities in Iowa
The locations below appear in the current directory as Air National Guard unit locations. They are useful military facilities, but they are not included in the major-installation total used above.
132nd Wing
132nd Wing is an Air National Guard location in Des Moines. Its mission supports Guard readiness and military aviation in Iowa.
| Branch | Air National Guard |
|---|---|
| Location | Des Moines, Iowa |
| Address | 3100 McKinley Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50321 |
| Main contact | 515-261-8290 |
| Main operations | Military operations, training and installation support |
| Key facilities | Training areas, administrative facilities and personnel support services |
| Status | Active |
185th Air Refueling Wing
185th Air Refueling Wing is an Air National Guard location in Sioux City. Its mission supports Guard readiness and military aviation in Iowa.
| Branch | Air National Guard |
|---|---|
| Location | Sioux City, Iowa |
| Address | 2920 Headquarters Avenue, Sioux City, IA 51111 |
| Main contact | 712-233-0809 |
| Main operations | Military operations, training and installation support |
| Key facilities | Training areas, administrative facilities and personnel support services |
| Status | Active |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many active military bases are in Iowa?
The number depends on how installations, Guard locations and smaller military sites are counted. This guide uses the same installation criteria as the other state articles.
Does Iowa have active military bases?
The current directory does not list a major active-duty federal base in Iowa under the strict installation definition used here. It does list National Guard facilities in the state.
What military facilities are in Iowa?
The current directory shows 2 Air National Guard locations in Iowa. They are listed separately on this page.
Why are the National Guard locations not counted as major bases?
MilitaryINSTALLATIONS often lists Guard wings or units rather than a separate installation page for the base itself. This site keeps those unit listings outside the major-base count so every state is measured the same way.
Can civilians visit National Guard facilities in Iowa?
Public access depends on the location, event and current security rules. Contact the facility before visiting because gate and visitor requirements can change.
Does this page include recruiting offices in Iowa?
No. Recruiting offices are not treated as military bases in this series.