Hidden away in Matagorda County in the cozy coastal town of Palacios, TX, Camp Hulen has an intriguing past and played a key role in the U.S. victory in World War II. Once an active, thriving military training center, Camp Hulen prepared thousands of soldiers for battle and later housed prisoners of war.
Camp Hulen in Palacios, Texas: A Glimpse into Its Military Past
Hidden away in Matagorda County in the cozy coastal town of Palacios, TX, Camp Hulen has an intriguing past and played a key role in the U.S. victory in World War II. Once an active, thriving military training center, Camp Hulen prepared thousands of soldiers for battle and later housed prisoners of war.
Today, small bits of this important military base remain, giving visitors and history lovers a glimpse of the past. Keep reading to learn more about the past, future, and present of this important historical landmark!
Camp Hulen’s Origin
Camp Hulen, first known as Camp Palacios, was launched in 1925 as a summer training camp for the well-respected 36th Infantry Division of the Texas National Guard.
Thanks to the patriotism of local Palacios residents, the camp was placed on 1,200 acres of donated land near Tres Palacios Bay and Turtle Bay. The location of this summer training camp was perfect — it was a large, remote space where military exercises and field training could be executed swiftly and secretly.
Over 6,000 soldiers trained here during the summers of 1926 and 1927. The camp was renamed Camp Hulen in 1930 in honor of Major General John A. Hulen, an outstanding military leader who played a significant role in preparing the Texas National Guard for World War II.
Camp Hulen's Role in Military Training for World War II
As tensions in Europe continued to rise, the U.S. readied itself for potential involvement in World War II. In 1940, the United States Department of War leased Camp Hulen, transforming it into an anti-aircraft training center. National Guard units from across the country arrived at Camp Hulen for intensive anti-aircraft training in preparation for what would soon become the biggest global war of the 20th century.
Camp Hulen was one of the busiest military training sites in the United States. Troops were trained in anti-aircraft artillery and defensive operations. At its peak, Camp Hulen housed up to 12,000 military personnel, including brave soldiers, civilian workers, and staff.
German Prisoners of War at Camp Hulen
At the height of World War II, the United States captured German prisoners of war (POWs) and sent them to POW camps across the country. In addition to training thousands of U.S. soldiers, Camp Hulen also served as a holding site for POWs from Germany from 1943 to 1945.
POWs contributed to the camp's operations, did maintenance work, and supported the camp's logistical needs under strict supervision. German POWs at Camp Hulen lived under guard but were treated with dignity and respect.
Changes to Camp Hulen After WWII
After World War II ended, so did the need for massive military training camps. In 1946, the United States Department of War returned the area to the U.S. National Guard — forever closing Camp Hulen.
Though much of the military training center was removed, the site of Camp Hulen will always remain a powerful reminder of its role in U.S. military history. In 1965, part of the camp was repurposed into the Palacios Municipal Airport. Historical markers, like the Palacios Veterans Memorial, monumentalize the soldiers who trained at Camp Hulen.
Camp Hulen Today
The entrance to the beautiful waterfront community of Beachside is gated by two historical markers dedicated to Camp Hulen. A mile-long peninsula, believed to be used for anti-aircraft training and possibly a runway, remains here. Concrete pads that helped the anti-aircraft guns still peak through the calm waters visible in Tres Palacios Bay.
- Palacios Veterans Memorial — Pay tribute to the soldiers who trained at Camp Hulen and served during World War II. This memorial commemorates their efforts and the camp's legacy.
- Palacios Municipal Airport — Once part of Camp Hulen's military air base, the airport now serves the community of Palacios and other nearby coastal communities.
- Beautiful Surroundings — Soak in the beauty of Tres Palacios Bay, Turtle Bay, and the gorgeous scenery surrounding Camp Hulen.
Learn More About Camp Hulen from the Palacios Area Historical Association
Today, visitors to Palacios, TX, can still see the impact of this important piece of Texas history, thanks in part to the work of the Palacios Area Historical Association (PAHA). For those fascinated by the history of Camp Hulen, the PAHA is a powerful resource for furthering your knowledge.
Immerse Yourself in Palacios’ History and Culture at Beachside
Visit Palacios, Texas, to explore Camp Hulen and learn more about its legacy and important role in American history. While in town, be sure to check out the other fun things to do in Palacios, like taking a scenic hike along the Texas Gulf Coast or grabbing a delicious seafood dinner from one of the best restaurants in Palacios.
Book a tour of our build-ready lots at Beachside, and discover why locals and visitors love the laid-back vibe, natural, coastal beauty, and active lifestyle in Palacios, TX!