Fort Pickett is located in Blackstone, Virginia, about 40 miles southwest of Richmond. It serves as the headquarters for the Virginia Army National Guard and supports Reserve and Active Duty units with training ranges, live-fire areas, and maneuver lands. Though smaller than many Army posts, it plays a vital role in national readiness and joint training.

Preparing for Your Move

Important Paperwork and Procedures

Before reporting to Fort Pickett, make sure you have:

• PCS or TDY orders
• Updated ID cards and DEERS enrollment
• Medical and dental records
• Housing or lodging arrangements (on-post options are limited)
• School documents for dependents

Because Fort Pickett is primarily a training center, confirm with your command whether your orders are long-term or short-term.

Housing Options at Fort Pickett

On-Post Housing

Family housing on post is limited, with most service members staying in barracks or temporary quarters during training rotations. Long-term PCS families usually seek off-base options.

Off-Base Housing

Nearby communities for off-post living include:

• Blackstone (closest to base, small-town feel)
• Crewe and Burkeville (nearby towns with affordable housing)
• Richmond suburbs (for more urban living, longer commute)

Check out our Military Relocation Assistance guide for support in finding housing that fits your needs.

Schools and Education

Local School Districts

Children of families stationed near Fort Pickett typically attend Nottoway County Public Schools. Families in Richmond suburbs have access to Chesterfield and Henrico County schools, which are larger districts with more options.

Higher Education

Central and southern Virginia offer several higher education opportunities, including Virginia State University (Petersburg) and Longwood University (Farmville).

Be sure to use our PCS Checklist to stay organized with enrollment records.

Facilities and Amenities

On-Post Services

Fort Pickett has limited family amenities but supports service members with:

• Training ranges and support services
• Administrative offices for in-processing
• Dining facilities and PX services

Nearby Amenities

Families rely on Blackstone and nearby towns for groceries, shopping, and healthcare. For broader services, Richmond provides hospitals, entertainment, and cultural activities.

Explore our Military Family Resources for relocation support.

Navigating Life Near Fort Pickett

Transportation and Commuting

The installation is easily accessed via U.S. Route 460. Commutes are short within Blackstone, while those living in Richmond should expect longer travel times. Richmond International Airport is the nearest major airport for travel.

Community and Social Life

Blackstone offers a welcoming small-town community with military ties. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and hiking in the region. Richmond expands social opportunities with museums, sports, and cultural events.

Preparing for the Weather

Virginia’s climate features hot, humid summers, mild winters, and seasonal storms. Families should also be prepared for hurricane season in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Making the Most of Your PCS to Fort Pickett

While Fort Pickett is not a large permanent duty station, it offers a strong training mission and a supportive small-town community. Families often enjoy the slower pace of Blackstone while staying connected to larger nearby cities like Richmond.

Summary

Fort Pickett is a vital training hub for the Virginia Army National Guard and joint forces. For PCS families, most housing and resources are found off base in surrounding communities. With preparation and awareness of available resources, your PCS to Fort Pickett can be smooth and rewarding.