OOC:
Frysor Stronghold is indeed a major military base. It is situated next to a large freshwater lake that serves as an oasis in the middle of a desolate wasteland, and also serves to secure the northern border of the ancient white dragon Sumadea's "domain."
There is a sister city of sorts with Lepool Stronghold, eight days of travel away, that serves the same purpose for the ancient green dragon Alikil, and there is a bit of a rivalry between the two governing bodies. While there hasn't been any open conflict between the "Bane of the North" and "Rime of the South," it's no secret that political play and one-upmanship happens often.
Despite whatever perceived tensions there may be, Frysor Stronghold is still a city. There are traders and caravans that travel from Frysor Stronghold to other places (the caravan you were sent to rendezvous with originated from Frysor), but it's not a major trading hub. With few Caer Tan cities in the desolate wastelands, security is a primary concern and a significant military presence is obvious.
That's not to say that visitors aren't welcome. Citizens of Caer Tan enjoy a freedom to travel to many places and Frysor is no exception. Unfortunately, there isn't much for a tourist to do save for a fishing cruise upon the lake, and the journey through the deserts to get to Frysor is not something of a priority for your average vacationer.