The camp was originally built in 1940 during World War II.

Some 22,000 American servicemen were accommodated and trained at the camp prior to Operation Overlord.

The entire training area is some 8,200 acres (33 km2) in area, with its highest point rising to some 700m above sea level and includes two parachute Drop zones.

The camp itself can accommodate up to 500 personnel and has been used as a base by Strathclyde Police during protests at the nearby HMNB Clyde.

[2] In August 2022, the Ministry of Defence announced plans to demolish the existing accommodation and replace it with modern energy efficient accommodation.