Questions or Feedback?

Have a question, comment, concern, or suggestion about the MCCS Community Access Program? We want to hear from you.

Email us at 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Community Access Program?

The Community Access Program allows eligible local residents, within 35 miles of the base, to apply for controlled access to designated MCCS facilities aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC). The program is intended to support the long-term sustainability of participating facilities while generating revenue that supports programs, services, and facility improvements benefiting Marines, Sailors, military families, and the installation community.

Why is the installation offering community access?

Several MCCS revenue-generating facilities are currently underutilized by the base population. The Community Access Program is designed to increase participation at approved facilities, which will in turn generate supplemental revenue that supports military quality-of-life programs, and will strengthen the partnership between MCAGCC and the surrounding community.

Who is eligible to participate?

The program is intended for eligible residents within a 35-mile radius of the installation, including communities such as Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley. Applicants must meet all MCAGCC access requirements and successfully complete required registration, identity verification, and security screening procedures.

How do I apply for access?

Applicants will follow the How to Enroll steps found on this page. They will be guided to eventually complete the designated DBIDS registration process through the MCAGCC Visitor Center and provide the documentation required for identity verification and access authorization. A REAL ID or other accepted identification will be required in accordance with current installation access procedures. Visit the MCAGCC Visitor Center DBIDS webpage for the most current requirements and process.

Will I need to undergo a background check?

Yes. Applicants are subject to background screening in accordance with Marine Corps Access Control Policies. Applicants must meet established access standards before a DBIDS credential is issued. Screening is conducted when the credential is issued and again when it is renewed.

Is there a fee to apply?

There is a $25 annual membership fee associated for the Community Access Program.

Does this program provide access to the entire installation?

No. The Community Access Program does not provide open or unrestricted access to MCAGCC. Access is limited to approved MCCS facilities. Participation does not grant access to operational areas, military housing, or other restricted locations and facilities.

Which facilities will be available through the program?

Access is limited to approved participating facilities. The current list of participating facilities will be maintained on this page.

Will military members and their families still have priority?

Yes. Authorized military remain the priority for MCCS facilities and services. The Community Access Program is intended to use available capacity while preserving the installation's commitment to serving Marines, Sailors, and military families first, and foremost.

Will access be available at all times?

No. The Community Access Program DBIDS credential holders may access the installation between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm. Access may also be limited, modified, or suspended due to mission requirements, security conditions, maintenance, facility capacity, or other operational considerations.

Can I bring guests or minor children with me?

Guest and minor access requirements are governed by current MCAGCC Visitor Center and installation access policies. The Community Access Program participants should review the current access requirements before planning a visit.

Will this affect installation security?

Installation safety and security remain a priority. The Community Access Program participants must complete the required access screening and obtain a DBIDS credential before entering the installation. Access is limited to approved facilities and areas, and all participants must follow installation rules and the directions of facility staff and Military Police.

What happens if I enter an unauthorized area or violate installation rules?

Participants are expected to comply with all installation rules, policies, and facility requirements. Violations may result in removal from the installation and revocation of access privileges. Additional administrative or criminal consequences may apply depending on the nature of the violation.

What should CAP participants do during an installation emergency or lockdown?

During an installation emergency, lockdown, or other emergency condition, Community Access Program participants must follow the directions provided by facility staff and/or Military Police/First Responders.

Can the Community Access Program be changed or suspended?

Yes. Access and program procedures may be modified, restricted, or suspended when required by mission, security, safety, or operational needs. Installation Commanding General retains authority over the program and access to MCAGCC.

How will community participation benefit Marines and military families?

Revenue generated through participating MCCS facilities supports the long-term sustainability of MCCS programs and services, including quality-of-life programs, recreation, family activities, youth initiatives, facility maintenance, and improvements that benefit Marines, Sailors, and military families.

Where can I learn more or submit a question, comment, or concern?

Bookmark this page and come back for future updates to the program. Information about the DBIDS application and installation access process will be available through the official MCAGCC Visitor Center webpage. Questions, comments, or concerns about CAP may be submitted to 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org.

Will CAP participants receive tax-free benefits at the exchange?

CAP patrons may purchase consumable items (food, water, batteries, etc.) tax-free at the MCX. All other non-consumable items (clothing, electronics, tools, etc.) are not available for purchase by CAP patrons and are monitored by MCX staff.

How is access to housing, schools, playgrounds, and youth facilities enforced?

CAP participants are prohibited from entering housing areas, playgrounds, schools, gyms, pools, sports fields, and any location primarily used by military families. Enforcement relies on Military Police patrols, facility staff oversight, restricted area signage, and community vigilance (“See Something, Say Something”). Violations result in immediate removal and loss of access.

How are CAP participants monitored?

CAP participants receive DBIDS credentials restricting access to designated MCCS facilities. Military Police and facility staff monitor boundaries. PMO conducts regular and directed patrols, and all personnel are subject to Random Antiterrorism Measures (RAMs), including vehicle searches and ID checks. Upon accessing the base DBIDS runs live criminal and sex offender registry queries. Violations will result in immediate revocation of their DBIDS card and base access will be suspended.

Will CAP-authorized vehicles be identifiable?

CAP access is credential-based, not vehicle-based. Security personnel identify CAP visitors through DBIDS at entry points and credential checks at facilities.

What security measures are in place?

  • Live background checks and screening against law enforcement databases
  • Restricted area signage and enhanced monitoring of facilities
  • Immediate credential revocation for violations
  • Regular and directed PMO patrols
  • Community reporting and rapid response to suspicious activity

Additional Clarification

  • Military families remain the priority for all MCCS services
  • CAP participants cannot purchase alcohol, tobacco, firearms, or ammunition
  • CAP participants cannot use gyms, fitness facilities, child-care centers, chow halls, Naval Hospital stores, Camp Wilson, football fields, obstacle courses, or adventure trails
  • CAP participants are not permitted in residential neighborhoods, playgrounds, schools, or any location primarily used by military families
  • CAP participants are subject to annual re-screening; access is revoked immediately if new disqualifying information appears
  • CAP does not change sponsor-based access rules for military families.
  • Trusted Traveler is separate from CAP; CAP participants are solely accountable for their own conduct.
Download the FAQs

Community Access Program

Experience the same facilities trusted by Marines and their families.

Residents of the local community can now enjoy limited access to select services and facilities aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. This partnership helps expand recreational, dining, shopping and service options available to the local community while supporting Quality-of-Life programs for service members and their families.

What facilities can you enjoy?

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Dining

From convenient grab-and-go selections to refined sit-down experiences at Table Two Nine, MCCS 29 Palms provides dining options to suit every taste. Click below for menus, operating hours and more.

Explore All Dining Options
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Golf

The Desert Winds Golf Course is the only 18-hole championship course with a 60-mile radius, complete with a 24/7 driving range and a full clubhouse. Carts, clubs and accessories available. Public tee times available by calling 48 hours in advance. 

More Info
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Shopping

Stop by our Marine Corps Exchange facilities and shop for a variety of consumable items, along with officially licensed USMC logo merchandise. Whether you're picking up everyday essentials or looking for Marine Corps gear, we look forward to seeing you.

More Info
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Bowling

Sandy Hill Lanes offers a fun indoor recreation experience for all skill levels, featuring individual and group open bowling as well as competitive events. Beyond bowling, you can play your favorite tunes on the juke box, satisfy your appetite at Game Time Grill, or take advantage of the Pro Shop’s retail sales and services.  

More Info
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Automotive

Take advantage of our full service Semper Ride repair and maintenance and have our ASE technicians do the work for you at the Auto Skills Center. Wait in the lobby, shop at the Parts Store,  or drop off your vehicle and pick it up later.

More Info
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Movies

Sunset Cinema shows first-run movies seven days a week. Enjoy your favorite concession items: popcorn, candy, fountain drinks and other movie snacks.

More Info
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Services

Take care of everyday needs with convenient services available on the base. From dry cleaning to car rental, laser engraving and specialty services, there are options to help make life a little easier.

See Available Services
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Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures provides recreational rentals, including equipment for winter and summer sports, camping, garden and party gear. Children’s games, tables, chairs, canopies and inflatables are also available.

More Info

How to Enroll

The Community Access Program (CAP) is open to all U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old or accompanied by a participant over the age of 18 that reside within a 35-mile radius of the base. 

Here are the steps on how to apply:

  1. Download and complete the Statement of Understanding (SOU) form - coming soon
  2. Use the website on the SOU form to pay the $25 annual membership fee and note the receipt number in the appropriate portion of the SOU form.
  3. Submit completed form to 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org
  4. Once approved, you will receive an email to pre enroll in DBIDS and setup an appointment at the MCAGCC Visitor Center
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