Pennsylvania

Things to know...

Details that are different from state to state and may make your posting just a little bit easier!

• Weather & Natural Disasters

  Pennsylvania’s weather features warm, humid summers with temperatures often in the 80s and cold winters averaging in the 20s to 30s, with frequent snowfall in northern and higher-elevation areas. The state is also prone to severe thunderstorms, occasional flooding, and winter storms, including snow and ice.

  Tornados

  Pennsylvania sees an average of 10-20 tornadoes annually, and while they tend to be weaker than those in the central U.S., they can still cause damage. Areas such as Carlisle and Harrisburg are susceptible to tornadoes, particularly during April to June. If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a basement or interior room away from windows.

  Flooding

  Flooding is a recurring issue, especially in spring after heavy rains and snowmelt. Flooding can occur along the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg and in low-lying areas around Philadelphia. Flash flooding can develop quickly, so be cautious in flood-prone areas and never drive through floodwaters.

  Prepare

  Receiving weather warnings, alerts and updates through multiple means will ensure that you are prepared and can act quickly. NOAA weather radio, local weather broadcasts, outdoor sirens, wireless emergency alerts (if you switch to an American area code), weather apps, and social media are all great tools to receive national and statewide disaster and emergency alerts.

  For more in-depth information, check out ready.gov, a national campaign aimed at educating and empowering individuals to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies and disasters.

• Neighbourhoods

  Cities: Carlisle, Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Moorestown (NJ)

  U.S. Army War College (Carlisle Barracks) focuses on senior officer education and strategic leadership training. Carlisle is a historic town with charming neighborhoods, affordable housing, and a small-town feel. Most residents in Carlisle enjoy a commute of fewer than 10 minutes to the Carlisle Barracks.

  Harrisburg is Approximately 20 miles east of the Carlisle Barracks for those who prefer living in the state capital. Other neighbourhood options include Camp Hill, and Hershey (home to Hershey amusement park). Commutes from Harrisburg range from 30-40 minutes, while Camp Hill residents can expect a 20–30-minute drive.

  Naval Support Activity (NSA) Philadelphia is located within the Philadelphia Navy Yard in South Philadelphia and provides support services to naval units and commands in the region. Philadelphia offers a wide range of living environments, including urban neighborhoods like Center City, which provide walkability and convenient access to the installation, as well as quieter residential areas such as Chestnut Hill and Manayunk. Other housing options include suburban communities like Furlong and Jamison in nearby Bucks County.  

  Some CAF families may also choose to live in Moorestown, New Jersey, a suburban community known for its strong public schools, historic downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere. Commuting from Moorestown to NSA Philadelphia typically takes about 30–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.  

  Neighborhood Navigator: A tool from Military One Source that helps you explore and learn more about a community, including information on schools, amenities, demographics, and more. 
• Base Information & Resources
  For more detailed information about each base, including contact information and specific services offered, you can visit Military One Source and select your state followed by your installation or click the links below.
  
  Spouses and dependents with valid Department of Defense (DoD) identification cards have access to these bases.

  • Carlisle Barracks provides a commissary, exchange, and various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities. Amenities include a fitness center, library, dining options, lodging at the IHG Army Hotel Historia, and on-base housing with playgrounds and park areas. Additional facilities include a golf course. For the most updated information on Carlisle Barracks MWR facilities and services > visit Carlisle Barracks MWR
  • Naval Support Activity (NSA) Philadelphia features a fitness center, outdoor equipment rentals, a child development center, and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. Amenities include a basketball court, volleyball court, tennis court, soccer court, softball fields, multipurpose field, and tennis courts. For the most updated information on NSA Philadelphia MWR facilities and services > visit NSA Philadelphia Fleet and Family Readiness
• Getting Around

  Getting around in Carlisle, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia is a mix of car-dependency and public transportation options. In Carlisle, most people rely on cars, as traffic is generally light, though it can increase near military events or during peak hours. In Harrisburg, public transportation is more accessible, with the Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus system covering the city, but many still prefer cars, especially for longer trips or traveling outside the city. Philadelphia has an extensive public transportation network via SEPTA, including buses, subways, and commuter rail, but driving remains common for trips outside the city or to nearby areas like Carlisle and Harrisburg. Traffic in Philadelphia can be heavy, particularly downtown, and parking can be expensive.

  Moorestown, NJ: Similarly, Moorestown is about 10 miles from NSA Philadelphia, and getting around is mostly car-dependent.

• On-Base Medical Treatment Facility
  The following medical groups provide comprehensive medical care to CAF Families who have been enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and have TRICARE eligibility.
  
  Carlisle Barracks, through Dunham U.S. Army Health Clinic
  Naval Support Activity (NSA) through the Naval Branch Health Clinic Philadelphia
   
• Critters & Wildlife

  Pennsylvania is home to wildlife such as venomous snakes like the Eastern Timber rattlesnake and the copperhead, as well as ticks that can carry Lyme disease, particularly in wooded and grassy areas. The state also has insects like mosquitoes, ants, and occasional encounters with black bears, especially in more rural regions. Compared to Canada, Pennsylvania has a wider variety of reptiles and insects due to its temperate climate, making routine pest control recommended to manage ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests during the warmer months.

• Children's Education

  There are several public schools, along with a few charter schools, within a 25-mile radius of Carlisle and Philadelphia

  Carlisle

  The Carlisle Area School District serves military families living on Carlisle Barracks. ** The district offers French language courses starting from middle school through high school, focusing on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Enrollment is typically open to residents of the district. For specific enrollment deadlines and requirements, contact the district directly.

  Harrisburg

  Harrisburg has several public schools within the Harrisburg School District, along with charter schools offering unique educational opportunities. One of the notable charter schools is Infinity Charter School, which serves grades K-8 with a focus on academic excellence and student development.

  Philadelphia

  Philadelphia offers a diverse array of educational options, including numerous public and charter schools and a French International School.

  • The School District of Philadelphia
  • Mastery Charter Schools: Operating multiple campuses across Philadelphia, Mastery Schools focus on preparing students for postsecondary success through rigorous academics and personal development.
  • Independence Charter School: Located in South Philadelphia, this K-8 charter school provides a dual-language education experience, emphasizing STEAM academics and enrichment in arts, business, and civics.
  • MaST Community Charter School: Situated in Northeast Philadelphia, MaST serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade, with a curriculum centered around math, science, and technology.
  • Philadelphia Academy Charter School: With campuses in Northeast Philadelphia, this charter school offers education from kindergarten through 12th grade, aiming to prepare students to achieve their highest potential.
  • KIPP Philadelphia Schools: Part of the national KIPP network, these schools are committed to creating joyful, academically excellent environments that prepare students for success in college and beyond.
  • French International School of Philadelphia: An independent bilingual school (Preschool–Grade 8) offering a French-English curriculum within a multicultural environment. Private institution – contact the school directly for admission requirements, tuition, and enrollment details. Note: Approval from Children’s Education Management required.
  • Alliance Française de Philadelphie: Offering French language instruction for all levels, available in-person and online, with weekly sessions (1.5–2 hours).

   

  It is highly recommended that you connect with your installation’s School Liaison, who can provide valuable information on local school districts, act as a bridge between the military community and school administrators, and offer expert guidance on educational matters.

  Carlisle Barracks School Liaison Program

  NSA Philidelphia School Liaison Program

   

• Child Care

  Child Development Centers

  Child Development Centers (CDCs) generally offer childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Care is available Monday through Friday, with some locations offering options such as extended hours, weekend care, and respite care. Child Development Centers vary in size, and larger installations may operate multiple facilities. Programs are certified by the Department of Defense and accredited by a national accrediting body, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

  For a full list of military-operated childcare programs, including Child Development Centers, childcare programs, before- and after-school care, as well as summer and holiday camps, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. There, you can enter your location or military installation to find a comprehensive list of childcare programs, as well as submit requests for care through Child Development Centers, school-age care programs, and DOD-certified Family Child Care providers.

  Additional Child and Developement Resources

  Vsit our Family Care webpage, where you’ll find parenting and advocacy programs, development resources, toolkits, and more.

• Automobile Registration, Plates & Licenses

  The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) provides information on transferring out-of-state titles and licenses.