Naval Station Great Lakes

Naval Base Guide

Naval Station Great Lakes: Your First Step in the Navy Journey

For so many sailors and families, Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois marks the start of a brand-new chapter. Known as the “Quarterdeck of the Navy,” it’s where every enlisted sailor begins their journey through Recruit Training Command (RTC), the Navy’s only boot camp.

But Great Lakes isn’t just for trainees. For families stationed here, this base and the surrounding area offer a surprising mix of lakeside charm, Midwest warmth, and easy access to Chicago’s big-city excitement. Whether you’re arriving for training, a new assignment, or to support a sailor, here’s what life looks like around Great Lakes Navy Base.

Discover essential tips and insights for a smooth transition, from preparation for your PCS move to NS Great Lakes PCS Pay-it-Forward®. By completing your personalized PCS Plan©, you’ll get a clear roadmap for housing, schools, and neighborhood options.

Introduction

A Closer Look at Naval Station Great Lakes

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan about 40 miles north of Chicago, Naval Station Great Lakes is the largest military installation in Illinois and home to several commands, including RTC and the Navy’s technical training schools.

It’s a place filled with history, but also constant motion. Thousands of sailors graduate here each year, and the base community thrives on that mix of fresh energy and deep Navy tradition.

For families, there’s on-base housing through Hunt Military Communities, along with commissary access, the Navy Exchange, and a range of family support services. The Fleet and Family Support Center is an especially valuable stop for those just getting settled, offering workshops, relocation help, and family resources.

Essential Paperwork and Documentation

When preparing to PCS (Permanent Change of Station) to Naval Station Great Lakes, organizing essential paperwork is crucial. Ensure that all military orders, personal identification, medical records, and registration documents for vehicles and pets are updated and accessible. This preparation will streamline the transition and reduce the stress associated with military relocations.

Living Near Great Lakes Navy Base

If you’re stationed at Naval Station Great Lakes, you’ll find a variety of nearby neighborhoods that fit different needs and lifestyles:

Waukegan and North Chicago – Close to base, affordable, and convenient for commuting.
Libertyville – A bit farther out, but known for great schools, community events, and charming downtown shops.
Gurnee – Home to Six Flags Great America, great shopping, and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Housing options vary widely, so take some time to explore, and remember to check your BAH rates before making decisions. Many families find that using their VA Home Loan benefit makes homeownership surprisingly achievable here in Illinois. Our Military Move and PCS Resources page walks you through how to use that benefit, compare costs, and decide whether renting or buying is right for your family.

Connecting Utilities: Steps and Providers

Upon moving in, setting up essential utilities is a priority. The most important thing that will hit you the first is lodging. The base’s Housing Service Center can provide contacts for local utility providers, including electricity, gas, and water, ensuring you establish services swiftly. But for that, you have to connect them as fast as you can.

Internet and Communication Services

Staying connected is vital, especially in a new location. Naval Station Great Lakes is serviced by several major internet and telecommunication providers, offering various packages tailored to military families’ needs.

Schools and Family Life

Families with school-age children will find a mix of public and private school options near the base. The North Chicago Community School District serves many military families, but nearby districts in Lake Bluff and Libertyville are also popular depending on where you live.

Childcare and youth programs on base make it easier for dual-military or working families to balance schedules, and the local Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) program hosts regular family events, fitness opportunities, and outdoor recreation.

Many families describe Great Lakes as a “hidden gem” assignment, affordable, welcoming, and community-oriented. The Great Lakes PCS Pay It Forward® group is an incredible resource for real-world advice from local families who’ve been through it all, from navigating Chicago traffic to finding the best playgrounds and pizza joints.

Exploring the Area

Living near Naval Station Great Lakes puts you within reach of everything from small-town comfort to big-city adventure. Spend your weekends exploring Lake Michigan’s beaches, taking a day trip to Chicago, or discovering the many parks and trails around Lake County.

Local favorites include:

Independence Grove Forest Preserve – perfect for hikes, picnics, and kayaking.
Downtown Libertyville – cozy cafes and farmers markets.
Gurnee Mills Mall – a major shopping hub with entertainment for the whole family.

No matter your pace, quiet weekends or city exploring, Great Lakes gives you the best of both worlds.

Medical Facilities on and near the Base

In case of emergencies, the base is equipped with responsive military and civilian emergency services, including medical, fire, and police departments. Additionally, support networks provide counseling and assistance for various personal and professional challenges.

Create a PCS Plan© You Can Actually Follow

PCS moves can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing family, timelines, and new responsibilities. But it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Our Military Move and PCS Resources page is full of practical guides, checklists, and insider tips to help you stay organized and confident from day one.

You’ll find everything from moving hacks to cost-saving strategies, all built by real military families who’ve been in your shoes.

Making the Most of Your VA Home Loan

If Illinois is your next long-term stop, don’t overlook the opportunity to invest in your own home. The VA Home Loan benefit lets you buy with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance, which means lower monthly costs and more stability for your family.

You can learn more about how to use your benefits, find trusted lenders, and prepare for homeownership in our Military Move and PCS Resources section.

What You Need to Know About Popular Neighborhoods Near Naval Station Great Lakes

Moving to a new duty station can be a lot, new schools, housing, community, everything. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. The Great Lakes PCS Pay It Forward® group connects you instantly with families already stationed here.

From sharing the best local finds to helping new arrivals settle in, it’s a built-in support network where helping each other is the mission.

Moving to Naval Station Great Lakes? Whether you’re arriving for recruit training, A-school, or a long-term assignment, the surrounding Lake County, Illinois area offers a variety of neighborhoods perfect for military families. The Naval Station Great Lakes PCS Pay It Forward® Map highlights top-rated communities known for great schools, safety, and convenience to the base and Chicago amenities.

#1 – Grayslake

Located southwest of the base, Grayslake is one of the most popular areas for military families. It offers a mix of newer developments and established neighborhoods, excellent schools, and family-oriented parks. Grayslake also provides quick access to I-94 for an easy commute to base or downtown Chicago.

#2 – Lake Villa

For families who prefer a quieter, suburban feel, Lake Villa offers larger homes and beautiful lake views. The community is known for outdoor recreation, good schools, and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families seeking balance between small-town charm and convenience.

#3 – Wadsworth / Beach Park

Situated just north of the base, Wadsworth and Beach Park provide easy access to Naval Station Great Lakes and affordable housing options. The area features plenty of open space, family-friendly neighborhoods, and local businesses that proudly support the military community.

#4 – Gurnee

Gurnee is a favorite among families for its entertainment, shopping, and dining options, home to Six Flags Great America and Gurnee Mills Mall. It also boasts excellent schools and a convenient commute to the base, making it perfect for those who want amenities and accessibility.

#5 – Libertyville

If you’re looking for a vibrant, upscale area with great schools and walkable neighborhoods, Libertyville is a top choice. It’s filled with boutique shopping, restaurants, and parks, offering a mix of small-town charm and suburban sophistication within 25 minutes of base.

Each of these neighborhoods is featured on the Naval Station Great Lakes PCS Pay It Forward® interactive map, which includes verified base addresses, local restaurants where kids eat free, and businesses that offer military discounts.

Join the Naval Station Great Lakes PCS Pay It Forward® group today to unlock neighborhood reviews, connect with local families, and get insider PCS support from those who’ve already made the move!

Why Families Love Naval Station Great Lakes

For many military families, Naval Station Great Lakes is the first stop in a long Navy career, and it leaves a lasting impression. Between the lakeside views, the sense of history, and the welcoming community, it’s a place that feels special from the start.

So whether you’re attending graduation, checking in for a new assignment, or simply finding your footing in Illinois, know this: there’s a community waiting here to help you feel at home, and a network that continues to grow every day through PCS Pay It Forward®.

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