rockhill

Fort Wolters is not an active, commisioned military installation. Indeed it is now known as Fort Wolters Industrial Park. The entrance from 80 that used to say primary helicopter base even says industrial park. As a civilian you can drive anywhere you want on what was the old base. Something you surely are not allowed to do on an active base

I do not in anyway dispute what you saw. As stated in earlier post various groups, including reserves, utilize the 1000yd rifle range.

The land that was Fort Wolters, and is now the Industrial Park is the center for economic develeopment in the area. The economy of Mineral Wells after the decline of the mineral baths in the 30's and 40's was dependent on the military. Fort Wolters went thru several name changes and roles, from prison camp to helicopter training, but was decomissioned in the late 1970's I believe. Mineral Wells SP was created in 1980 on land that once was part of the base.

As a part time citizen of Palo Pinto county just outside of the city limits of Mineral Wells, I invite you to our county/town and local state park. Mineral Wells is really a poor town, in need of restoration and tourist dollars. Please come visit us again.

It dawned on me after posting that we might be accidently debating the term "active". That was not my intent at all. Gunfire being heard on a gun range for sure qualifies as something being "active". I was going from the more formal status of "Fort" Wolters".I merely was trying to be sure folks were not frightened away from the park. It is a a safe park and one of very few, that has shown continued growth in attendance over the years