What You Need to Know about the Naval Live Oaks Area
The Naval Live Oaks Area is a stunning expanse of seashore, trails, and of course, live oaks. But it’s not a just a pretty piece of land—there’s an interesting history to the Naval Live Oaks Area and more than enough fun for you to enjoy.
Location
The Naval Live Oaks Area is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, located right on the coast just east of Gulf Breeze, FL, on US-98.
History of the Naval Live Oaks Area
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The land where the Naval Live Oaks Area lies today was originally purchased by the US Government from Spain in 1828. President John Quincy Adams wanted the land to cultivate and harvest Live Oak wood for building US Navy ships, and the area became the first (and only) federal tree farm. As the need for wood in shipbuilding diminished as iron and steel warships became more prevalent, the Live Oak Area was used primarily for ship restoration and preservation. Today, the Naval Live Oaks Area is part of The Gulf Islands National Seashore forest community and has been protected by the National Park Service since 1971. |
Things to Do
The Naval Live Oaks area is an excellent place to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature. Come hike 7.5 miles of trails, including the Brackenridge Nature Trail. Picnic tables and pavilions are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making this the perfect location for a fun outdoor lunch. With the Santa Rosa Sound shoreline nearby, it’s also a wonderful place to swim, kayak or paddleboard on calm waters.
About the Naval Live Oaks Area
There’s no entrance fee to enter the Naval Live Oaks Area, and because it’s also open 8am-sunset year-round, it’s always the perfect time to come visit!
