Camp Kinser
Camp Kinser PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Regional Maintenance Operations Company North, Combat Logistics 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, pose for a group photo during a uniform inspection on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, May 2, 2025. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion conduct an...
Camp Kinser sits in Urasoe City, Okinawa, Japan, and was established by the United States Marine Corps after World War II. The base’s original mission focused on serving as a logistics and supply hub for U.S. military operations across the Pacific region.
Its strategic location made Camp Kinser a vital asset during the postwar occupation and the early Cold War years. The base helped the U.S. solidify its presence in the Western Pacific.
Construction and expansion of Camp Kinser started in the late 1940s and continued through the 1950s. The base added extensive warehousing, maintenance, and transportation facilities during this period.
Over time, Camp Kinser became the primary logistics support area for Marine Corps forces in Okinawa. It now hosts units such as the 3rd Marine Logistics Group and its subordinate commands.
Throughout the Cold War, Camp Kinser played a key role in supporting U.S. military readiness in Asia. The base provided critical supplies and maintenance for operations in Korea, Vietnam, and other regional contingencies.
Its facilities enabled rapid deployment and sustainment of Marine forces, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to regional security. Camp Kinser’s support helped ensure operational success during times of crisis.
Today, Camp Kinser continues to serve as a logistics and supply center for Marine Corps operations in the Indo-Pacific. The base supports joint and bilateral training with Japanese forces and contributes to disaster relief and humanitarian missions.
There have been no significant official name changes for Camp Kinser since its establishment. The base has consistently operated under its current name, honoring its logistical mission and location.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Regional Maintenance Operations Company North, Combat Logistics 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, pose for a group photo during a uniform inspection on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, May 2, 2025. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion conduct an...
Major Units
3rd Marine Logistics Group (3rd MLG)
Provides comprehensive combat logistics support to III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) to enable operations across the Indo-Pacific region. Responsible for supply, maintenance, transportation, and health services support.
Combat Logistics Regiment 35 (CLR-35)
Delivers direct logistics support, including transportation, supply, and maintenance, to forward-deployed Marine units throughout Okinawa and the Pacific theater. Plays a key role in sustaining Marine operations.
Arrival & In-Processing
Festival attendees take a photo together with Niko Moon during a meet-and-greet at the annual Kisner Fest on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 7, 2024. Marine Corps Community Services organized an open gate event for all Okinawa residents to come together and enjoy a variety of food, games,...
Welcome to Camp Kinser! Arriving well-prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during check-in helps reduce stress and speeds up your in-processing. For more details, check the official Camp Kinser website.
Camp Kinser's main entrance is the Kinser Gate, located on the east side of the base. The Kinser Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID. State driver's licenses must meet REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant IDs are not accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all times. The base maintains a high security posture; follow all posted instructions and comply with gate guard requests. To bring visitors or family members without DoD credentials, stop at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) outside the main gate. Sponsors must be present and provide proper identification for both themselves and their guests to obtain a temporary pass.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Spouse ID Cards
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for all dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
Camp Kinser offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit directly or through your unit's administrative office. If you haven't been assigned a sponsor, reach out as soon as possible to ensure you have support before and during your move.
Report to the Camp Kinser Welcome Center, located near the main gate. In-processing hours are Monday through Friday, 0800–1630. You'll check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific needs and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Kinser Gate. Open Monday to Friday, 0700–1700, the VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsor paperwork. All visitors must be sponsored by an authorized base member and show valid government-issued ID.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Movers load a service member’s household goods into a moving truck at a residence in Pacific Grove, Calif., May 11.
Arriving at Camp Kinser involves several key steps to ensure a smooth transition. First, review your official orders and contact the base Transportation Office to start your Household Goods (HHG) shipment or arrange a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is your central tool for scheduling, tracking, and managing your move—register and log in early to avoid delays.
Service members are entitled to several PCS allowances. These include Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for hotel costs while searching for housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset relocation expenses. Make sure to keep receipts and understand each entitlement’s limits. At Camp Kinser, prompt coordination with base services helps you secure housing, settle in, and access local resources quickly. For detailed guidance, use official .mil resources and reach out to the Transportation Office if you have questions.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS documents and receipts in a dedicated folder.
- Use DPS early to book your HHG or PPM move.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess fees.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of valuable items.
- Contact the Camp Kinser Housing Office before arrival for availability.
- Plan ahead for pet travel and quarantine requirements.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find official per diem, TLE, and DLA rates.
Get checklists, counseling, and moving tips.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Find base-specific arrival information and resources.