Camp Dunlap was a Marine Corps base activated on October 15, 1942, as a training facility during World War II

World War II

World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...

. The camp was named for Brigadier General Robert H. Dunlap

Robert H. Dunlap

Robert Henry Dunlap was a general in the United States Marine Corps.Born in Washington, D.C., Dunlap was appointed a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps August 8, 1898...

. It was used to train artillary and anti-aircraft units of the Fleet Marine Force

Fleet Marine Force

The United States Fleet Marine Forces are combined general and special purpose forces within the United States Department of the Navy that are designed in engaging offensive amphibious or expeditionary warfare and defensive maritime employment...

. The base was located at the present day location of Slab City

Slab City

Slab City or The Slabs is a camp in the Colorado Desert in southeastern California, used by recreational vehicle owners and squatters from across North America. It takes its name from the concrete slabs and pylons that remain from the abandoned World War II Marine barracks Camp Dunlap there...

(also known as The Slabs). In October, 1961, the United States Department of Defense conveyed the land on which Camp Dunlap was situated, back to the State of California.