2026 Guide to Military Housing Near Dahlgren: Staying in Colonial Beach, VA

Personnel assigned to Naval Support Facility Dahlgren face a tight housing market, whether they choose on-base quarters or look off base. The base itself offers 203 units of family housing, but demand is high and off-base rentals are limited and expensive. For those seeking temporary stays or a comfortable alternative while waiting for permanent housing, Colonial Beach Plaza Bed and Breakfast provides a convenient option just a short drive from the base.

On-Base Housing at NSF Dahlgren

NSF Dahlgren operates 203 family housing units: 78 single-family homes and 125 townhomes. All units are managed by Liberty Military Housing under a public-private venture agreement. The housing is organized into five distinct communities, each with specific rank eligibility.

Dahlgren Bungalows – open to E1 through E9
Dahlgren Townhomes – open to E1 through E9
Dahlgren Pointe – open to O1 through O5
Welsh Road – open to O1 through O3
Sampson Road – open to O6

Two pets per household are allowed, but breed restrictions apply. The exact list of restricted breeds is not published in general materials, so personnel should verify with the Housing Service Center before moving pets onto base.

How to Apply for On-Base Housing

All military members must report to the Housing Service Center (HSC) before signing any off-base rental agreement. The HSC is located at 6136 Jenkins Road, Building 142, Dahlgren, VA 22448-5109. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The HSC can be reached by phone at 540-653-8505 or 540-653-8506, and by email at Dahlgren_Housing@navy.mil.

To apply for on-base housing, you will need the following documents:

Copy of permanent change of station (PCS) orders
Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) paperwork
Page 2 (DD Form 1172)
DD Form 1746 (Pet Ownership Request)
Sex Offender Policy Acknowledgement
Information Release Form
PPV FH Applicant Statement of Understanding

It is a good idea to contact the HSC before arriving to confirm current wait times, as availability is not guaranteed and waitlists can shift depending on the season.

The Challenge of Off-Base Housing Near Dahlgren

According to Military OneSource, off-base housing near NSF Dahlgren is limited, expensive, and hard to find. The rural location in Virginia’s Northern Neck means fewer rental properties are available compared to larger Navy hubs. Many families end up commuting from communities such as Fredericksburg, King George, or Colonial Beach. Because the base does not publish current rental rates or BAH figures, personnel should research market rents independently and verify with the HSC before signing a lease.

For members who are still waiting for on-base housing or who prefer a temporary off-base setup, short-term lodging becomes an essential stopgap. Colonial Beach Plaza Bed and Breakfast offers a practical solution that combines comfort, flexibility, and proximity to the base.

Colonial Beach Plaza: A Convenient Off-Base Option

Colonial Beach Plaza B&B is located in the historic town of Colonial Beach, Virginia, about 15 minutes from NSF Dahlgren. The property provides a mix of B&B rooms in the main house, private cottages, condos, and vacation rentals. Five rooms in the main house each have a private bath; some suites include a sitting room. Separate cottages include Kokomo Cottage, Beach Carriage House, Garden Cottage, and Plaza View. Several of these units are pet-friendly, which is important for families traveling with animals that may not meet on-base breed restrictions.

B&B Guest rooms and the Beach Carriage House have access to a heated outdoor pool and cabana, resort area, and beach access. The property caters specifically to military personnel stationed at Dahlgren and to traveling nurses, making it a ready-made alternative when on-base housing is full or when families need short-term stays during a PCS move.

Beyond the rooms and amenities, Colonial Beach Plaza and Cottages are within walking distance to beaches, restaurants, and breweries. This helps families decompress after long workdays and enjoy the coastal Virginia lifestyle. The property also offers event spaces for small weddings, elopements, and corporate retreats, and some cottages are marketed for remote work, which can be helpful for spouses or service members working from home.

Tips for Military Families Relocating to Dahlgren

Start your housing search early. Contact the HSC immediately upon receiving orders to learn about on-base availability and waiting lists. If you plan to live off base, do not sign a lease until you have checked in with the HSC. That step is mandatory for all military personnel.

If you bring pets, confirm the breed restrictions for on-base housing and, if necessary, look for pet-friendly off-base rentals. Colonial Beach Plaza’s pet-friendly cottages provide a safe backup if base housing cannot accommodate your animals.

Finally, consider using temporary lodging like Colonial Beach Plaza B&B for the first few weeks. This gives you time to tour off-base neighborhoods and visit the HSC in person without the pressure of an immediate lease commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for on-base housing at Dahlgren?

Report to the Housing Service Center at 6136 Jenkins Road, Building 142, during business hours Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Bring your orders, EFMP paperwork, Page 2, DD Form 1746, Sex Offender Policy Acknowledgement, Information Release Form, and PPV FH Applicant Statement of Understanding. Phone 540-653-8505 or 540-653-8506, or email Dahlgren_Housing@navy.mil.

Are pets allowed in on-base housing?

Yes, up to two pets per household are permitted, but breed restrictions apply. The specific restricted breeds are not listed in standard materials. Contact the HSC for the current policy before moving animals onto base. If breed restrictions prevent you from living on base, consider pet-friendly off-base options like Colonial Beach Plaza Cottages.

What off-base housing options exist near Dahlgren?

Off-base housing is described as limited, expensive, and hard to find. Many personnel commute from Fredericksburg, King George, or Colonial Beach. Colonial Beach Plaza offers short-term stays in B&B rooms, cottages, condos, and vacation rentals, all within a short drive of the base. It is a practical temporary housing solution for military families. Use Colonial Beach Cottages to search for off-base housing.

Do I need to contact the HSC before renting off base?

Yes. All military members must report to the Housing Service Center before entering any off-base rental agreement. The HSC can provide guidance on fair market rents, landlord requirements, and the local housing market. Skipping this step can lead to administrative or financial complications.

What amenities does Colonial Beach Plaza offer for military guests?

Colonial Beach Plaza features a heated outdoor pool, a cabana, a Yuengling-themed retro game room, a tea room, and beach access. The Plaza also has cottages and condos that are pet-friendly and suitable for longer stays. All are within walking distance to local beaches and dining, making it a comfortable home base during relocation.

Whether you are PCSing to Dahlgren or simply need a reliable place to stay while you secure permanent housing, Colonial Beach Plaza and Cottages offers the comfort and convenience that military families deserve. Check their availability directly for the most current rates and booking options.