The facility is located at the former Castle Air Force Base in Merced County
MERCED COUNTY – On Monday, July 28, 2025, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) opened a new training center in Merced County, located at the former Castle Air Force Base in Atwater.The Atwater Training Center will provide comprehensive training and education to CAL FIRE personnel to ensure readiness and effectiveness in fire prevention, protection, and emergency response. “The addition of the fourth training center is a significant milestone for our Department, as we continue our efforts to advance fire protection throughout the state,” stated Justin Chaplin, CAL FIRE Training Centers Deputy Chief of Operations.CAL FIRE currently operates three other Training Centers
