Fort Crowder

Fort Crowder is a former military installation in Missouri spanning thousands of acres across multiple counties with forested areas, training grounds, and shooting ranges. The property includes administrative buildings that supported its various functions over the decades.

The fort was established in 1941 and initially served as a training center for the Army Signal Corps. During World War II, it also held German prisoners of war before shifting to a new role in rocket technology after the conflict ended.

Cartoonist Mort Walker drew inspiration from his service here to create the fictional Camp Swampy in his comic strip Beetle Bailey.

The grounds offer hiking trails through various landscapes where visitors can explore the natural surroundings. There are also areas for shooting sports activities if arranged or permitted in advance.

After the war, the site became a manufacturing facility for rocket engines producing components for major space projects. This industrial phase ended in the 1960s and shifted the area's economic importance.

Location: Missouri

Inception: 1941

GPS coordinates: 36.81820,-94.36950

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:01