Dugway Proving Ground  In-depth Overview

Dugway Proving Ground's primary mission is testing U.S. and Allied chemical and biological (CB) defense systems and performing nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) survivability testing and training of defense materiel using CB agents and stimulants. With over 50 years of experience, the proving ground uses its state-of-the-art laboratories and chambers to conduct the testing and training under environmentally controlled conditions.

The attack on Pearl Harbor, in 1941, jarred the United States and its military forces. The nation suddenly realized a need for increased military capability in many areas, which included expanded knowledge in chemical and biological warfare. On February 12, 1942, Dugway Proving Ground was established, and testing was under way by that summer. Dugway was authorized to fill the need for testing weapons and defenses against chemical and biological weapons of mass destruction. Important projects during this early period included testing incendiary bombs, chemical weapons, and modified agents as spray disseminated from air craft. Over the years, Dugway has expanded in size to 798,855 acres. In addition to chemical and biological defensive testing and environmental characterization and remediation technology testing, Dugway is the Defense Department's leader in testing battlefield smokes and obscurants. Also, within the last few years, Emergency Responders, i.e., Civil Support Teams (CST), are able to train at Dugway and become better prepared in case of terrorist attacks or chemical/biological incidents. For more information, visit the DPG Homepage.

• Dugway utilizes a blend of Military, Civilian, and Contractor personnel to accomplish their mission. All questions regarding the Dugway Mission or Population should be routed through Public Affairs at 435-831-3409

Tooele County, Utah's estimated population is 76,799 with a growth rate of 3.05% in the past year according to the most recent United States census data. The total population in the state of Utah is 

Utah population in 2021 is estimated to be 3.34 million, ranks 30th populous, its area is 84,899 sq miles (219,887 sq km), ranks 13th largest in the United States.

DoD personnel, families, civilians, joint services and contractors make up the workforce and community population.

U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground (DPG) is located approximately 90 miles southwest of Salt Lake City, Utah. Dugway Proving Ground is situated in Tooele County, located in Utah's historical west desert region. Comprised of over 1300 square miles of high mountain desert, a land area greater in size than the state of Rhode Island. DPG is a closed Post with no public access. Due to the remote location, the self-contained resident community is unique since it consists of a higher number of government civilians and support contractors living on post than military personnel. The installation Public Affairs phone number is 435-831-2116, DSN 314-789-2116. Dugway does not have a base operator. For information 24/7, please contact the Law Enforcement Dispatch desk at 435-831-2929.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) services Dugway Proving Ground.  SLC to Dugway is approximately 70 miles.  Taxi and limousine service can be expensive ($85-$100), and no military shuttle is available.  Requesting transportation through unit sponsor or by POV is recommended. Additional information can be found on the airport's website or by contacting ACS 435-831-2929, DSN 312-789-2929.

Note: Dugway Proving Ground is a closed post. Access to post is limited and visitors must have a sponsor.

From Salt Lake City and the Airport

• Take I-80 west to the Tooele/Grantsville exit (#99)
• Follow Route 36 south through Erda, Tooele and Stockton (Last gas station is at Stockton, beyond Stockton, the highway will split )
• Stay right on Route 36
• Turn right at the Clover exit onto Route 199
•  Follow Route 199 to Dugway (approximately 25 miles from Clover)
• Route 199 is a winding mountain road which goes through a pass and on to Dugway (Although the road is well maintained during the winter months, travelers should watch for ice and adhere to all road signs.)

Alternate Route from Salt Lake City

• Take I-80 west. Exit at Grantsville (exit #77)
• Follow Skull Valley Road south to Dugway (No facilities are available between Rowley Junction and Dugway)
• Last available facilities are on I-80 at exit #99
  (Skull Valley Road goes through the Indian Reservation and is therefore Federal Property, the road is not maintained by the State Highway Department. This is particularly important to remember during the winter months, as this road can become extremely icy and untravelable. Suggest all new arrivals plan to use the route described in the paragraph above.)

From Provo

• Take I-15 north to the Lehi exit. Follow Route 73 west through Cedar Fort (CedarFort is last available stop for gas and facilities before reaching Dugway)
• Turn Left  Route 73 ends near St. Johns Station at Route 36
•  Follow Route 36 south to the Clover exit
•  Turn right onto Route 199. Follow Route 199 to Dugway

Roadway Conditions and Hazards

Highways to Dugway Proving Ground are two lane country roads and run through open range grazing lands.  Use extreme caution when traveling at night as roadways are not lighted. Always use caution and be watchful for cattle and abundant wildlife on roadways. Cellular service is unreliable until DPG is reached, ensure vehicle is fueled and maintained prior to starting trip to DPG.

There are no base transportation options (i.e., taxi's, buses, shuttles) available on post. However, civilian employees living off-post may take part in the UTA Van Pool.

Dugway Proving Ground does not have a dedicated Base Operator. For 24 Hour Assistance call the Law Enforcement Dispatch desk at 435-831-2929, DSN 314-789-2929