The Ultimate PCS Guide to Fort Johnson, Louisiana

I. Introduction & Area Overview

Introduction Welcome to Fort Johnson (formerly Fort Polk), the home of the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC). This is one of the Army's premier Combat Training Centers (CTC), where units from across the joint force come to validate their skills in a realistic, demanding environment before deploying. The entire post operates at a high tempo to support this critical mission. Life here revolves around "the box"—the massive training area where the Army simulates combat. It is a no-nonsense post that forges readiness, set in the heart of Louisiana's unique culture and rugged terrain.

Location & Climate Fort Johnson is located in a very rural part of west-central Louisiana. The primary support towns are Leesville and DeRidder. The nearest city is Alexandria, about an hour away, and the closest major metropolitan areas (Houston and New Orleans) are a 3- to 4-hour drive.

The climate is a defining feature of this assignment. It is humid subtropical, with extreme characteristics:

• Summers: Oppressively hot and extremely humid. From May through September, temperatures are in the 90s (∘F) with very high humidity, leading to dangerous heat index values.
• Winters: Short, mild, and wet. Freezing temperatures are rare.
• Hurricanes: The region is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms from June through November, which can bring high winds and, more significantly, massive amounts of rain and flooding.

Local Vibe & Culture This is the heart of Louisiana. The local culture is a unique blend of Southern hospitality and Cajun/Creole influences. The surrounding towns are small, rural, and very supportive of the military. Outside the high operational tempo of the post, the pace of life is slow and relaxed. The area is an outdoorsman's paradise, with world-class hunting and fishing. A major benefit is an extremely low cost of living.

II. On-Post Housing & Amenities

On-Post Housing

• Provider: On-post housing is privatized and managed by Fort Johnson Family Homes (Lendlease).
• Reputation & Condition: The housing stock is a mix of new and old. There are several very popular villages with newer, modern homes. There is also a significant inventory of older, legacy housing that can be challenging to maintain in the high-humidity environment. Due to the post's rural and isolated location, on-post housing is a very popular choice for families.
• Waitlist Times: Waitlists can be long, especially for the newer homes and during peak PCS season. It is critical to apply as early as possible.

Amenities & Services

• Commissary & Exchange: Fort Johnson has a standard Commissary and Post Exchange to meet family needs.
• Healthcare: Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital is the on-post medical facility providing care for the community.
• MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation): MWR is heavily focused on the outdoors. On-post recreational areas like Alligator Lake offer fishing and boating. The MWR sports and fitness programs are also very active.
• Museum: The JRTC and Fort Johnson Museum on post details the history of the installation and its vital training mission.

III. Local Housing Market & Popular Neighborhoods (Off-Base)

Housing Market Overview The local housing market is very affordable, but the selection, especially for quality rentals, can be limited. Your BAH will go a very long way. A typical 3-bedroom rental will range from $1,000 to $1,700 per month.

Popular Neighborhoods for Military Families

1. Leesville:
   • Character: The primary support town located just outside the main gate. It offers the most convenience, the largest number of rental properties, and the shortest commute.
   • Commute: 5-20 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low (very affordable).
2. DeRidder:
   • Character: Located south of post, DeRidder is a popular choice for families. It has its own distinct community, a charming historic downtown, and a well-regarded school system.
   • Commute: 25-40 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low.
3. Rosepine / Anacoco:
   • Character: These are very small, rural communities known for their highly sought-after schools. Anacoco is also close to the massive Toledo Bend Reservoir.
   • Commute: 20-40 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low.

IV. Schools & Childcare

On-Post Schools Fort Johnson does not have DoDEA schools. All children who live on the installation attend schools in the Vernon Parish School District. For convenience, the district operates several elementary schools and a middle school located physically on post.

Off-Post Schools

• Primary Districts: The two main school districts serving the area are Vernon Parish School District (Leesville, Rosepine, Anacoco) and Beauregard Parish School District (DeRidder). The schools in DeRidder, Rosepine, and Anacoco are often the top choices for military families.
• School Ratings: School data can be found on the Louisiana Department of Education website.

Childcare

• On-Post: CDCs are available but have the standard long waitlists. Register at MilitaryChildCare.com the moment you receive orders.
• Off-Base: Childcare options are available in Leesville and DeRidder and are very affordable compared to national averages.

V. Things to Do, Pro-Tips & Weekend Trips

Local Must-Dos

1. Go Fishing at Toledo Bend Reservoir: This massive lake on the Louisiana/Texas border is consistently ranked as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the entire country.
2. Embrace the Outdoors: This is the primary form of recreation. The opportunities for hunting (deer, turkey, wild hog) and fishing are world-class, both in the Kisatchie National Forest and on Fort Johnson itself.
3. Eat Authentic Cajun Food: Find a local, no-frills restaurant or gas station diner and try authentic boudin, gumbo, and étouffée. In the spring, attend a crawfish boil.
4. Explore the Creole Nature Trail: Take a day trip south to drive this All-American Road, known as the "Louisiana Outback," to see alligators, birds, and the unique marsh landscape.
5. Go "Mud-Riding": Get an ATV or side-by-side and explore the local off-road trails, a very popular local pastime.

Insider Info & Pro-Tips

• The HEAT & HUMIDITY ARE EXTREME: This cannot be overstated. From May to October, it is dangerously hot and humid. Physical activity must be planned for the early morning. Hydration is a constant safety concern.
• Pest Control is Non-Negotiable: The environment is a paradise for bugs of all kinds (especially mosquitoes and roaches). Professional pest control for your home is a necessity.
• Prepare for Isolation: Fort Johnson is rural. You will be driving long distances for major shopping, specialized medical care, or big-city entertainment. Your social life will likely be centered on the post community.
• Hurricane Preparedness is a Must: You are in a hurricane impact zone. During the season (June-November), you must have a "go-bag" and an evacuation plan. Heavy rain and flooding are the most common threats.

Weekend Trips

1. Houston, TX (3.5 hours): The closest major city. Visit the NASA Johnson Space Center, catch an Astros or Texans game, and enjoy world-class museums and dining.
2. New Orleans, LA (4 hours): A world-famous destination. Explore the historic French Quarter, listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street, and indulge in the one-of-a-kind cuisine.
3. Lafayette, LA (2.5 hours): Immerse yourself in the heart of Cajun Country. Visit for festivals, eat authentic food, and listen to Zydeco music.
4. Galveston, TX (3 hours): The nearest beach destination. Enjoy the historic Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.