Naval Live Oaks Youth Group Camping
4.2715 reviews1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563, USA
Naval Live Oaks Youth Group Camping
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group camping fees are $20/night for groups of 10-25 campers and $30/night for groups of 26-40 campers.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$30.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(850) 934-2600Guis_Information@nps.gov
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Pensacola Bay near Gulf Breeze, Florida, Naval Live Oaks Youth Group Camping offers young adventurers an unforgettable outdoor experience. This exclusive group camping haven welcomes organized youth groups (primarily under 18) to explore nature's classroom while enjoying modern conveniences including restrooms, refreshing outdoor showers, a spacious picnic shelter for group gatherings, and a traditional campfire ring where memories and marshmallows are made under starlit skies.
This campground is designed for organized youth groups and offers one group site.
Historical SignificanceStep into America's maritime heritage at Naval Live Oaks, where centuries-old oak trees once shaped the destiny of a nation. These majestic oaks provided the essential curved timber that built the wooden warships of the U.S. Navy, their naturally bent branches forming the ribs and knees of vessels that defended our shores. As local historian Susanne Gibson notes, 'Curved oak tree branches make good boat parts when the Navy built wooden boats,' reminding visitors of the living history that surrounds every campsite.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Florida's coastal climate year-round. From mid-May through September, embrace the warmth of summer with temperatures perfect for bay swimming and water activities, as daily highs dance above 84°F and evening temperatures hover around a comfortable 77°F. Winter months from December to February bring mild, crisp days ideal for hiking and exploration, with pleasant highs reaching 66°F and cool evenings dipping to around 45°F—perfect campfire weather.
ElevationExperience camping at sea level, where the gentle Gulf breezes carry the salt air and the rhythmic sounds of Pensacola Bay create nature's perfect lullaby.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be enchanted by one of Florida's most breathtaking coastal treasures. As visitor Sean Walker perfectly captured, 'The stunning coastline took my breath away—a never-ending stretch of sugar-white sand meeting crystal-clear waters.' Beyond the pristine beaches, the Naval Live Oaks Area showcases a tapestry of natural wonders: ancient oak forests draped in Spanish moss, meadows bursting with vibrant wildflowers, and thriving coastal ecosystems where herons wade and dolphins play just offshore.
Geological RegionDiscover the unique geological wonder of Florida's Emerald Coast, where the famous sugar-white sand beaches—composed of pure Appalachian quartz—meet the emerald waters of the Gulf. The Naval Live Oaks area showcases a remarkable convergence of coastal habitats, from maritime forests of historic live oaks to salt marshes teeming with life, all shaped by centuries of wind, water, and time along this dynamic Gulf Coast ecosystem.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair access is available to the picnic pavilion and restrooms; however, the remainder of the campsite is undeveloped and may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors.
Sites SizeThe campground contains one group site suitable for youth groups.
Sites PrivacyLimited privacy due to the single group site setup, and the area is open.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for youth groups with interest in historical significance and water activities.
Best CampsitesOnly one group campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
No stay limit specified in official sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups consisting primarily of youth under 18 years old.
Groups
The single group site accommodates 10-25 or 26-40 campers, depending on the fee tier.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutLimited development campground with one group site featuring restrooms and a picnic pavilion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via email to guis_special_use_permits@nps.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable as reservations are required via email for youth groups.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system is in place for this campground. Email for special use permits.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Naval Live Oaks Youth Group Camping offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, water recreation, and wildlife observation.
Hiking
Over 7.5 miles of trails are available for exploration. Users praise the diversity and beauty of the trails but caution about poor signage. One user noted, 'The trail network on the north section of the preserve isn't marked well.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Pensacola Bay. A reviewer mentioned 'fishing' among the activities offered.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the clear, shallow waters of Pensacola Bay, which feature areas safe for children and non-swimmers.Biking
A multi-use trail parallels U.S. Route 98, though bike use may be impacted by nearby road construction and traffic. One reviewer commented, 'There was so much traffic... I would avoid this area due to air quality.'Wildlife viewing
The area provides opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna. 'The diversity of flora and fauna amazed me,' said one visitor.Beach activities
The site offers beach access along Pensacola Bay, featuring clear waters and shallow shoals suitable for children and sunbathing.Cultural and Educational Programs
The preserve features educational signs and exhibits about its historical significance, particularly its role in shipbuilding.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned. Cool-season temperatures are mild, making winter hiking a possibility.Water Sports
Water recreation is supported through direct access to Pensacola Bay, though specific water sports like kayaking are not detailed.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Must use fire rings provided.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsCritters including bears are known to roam the area. (David Doerflein) Some trails have sandy terrain and are difficult to navigate. (Stephen Rang)
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Nov 26
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Gulf Breeze Hospital, located roughly 2 miles away. Police and fire station services are available in Gulf Breeze. National Seashore Headquarters nearby provides emergency support.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe area experiences high visitation during warmer months, particularly May through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection is available year-round on-site.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Pensacola Bay for water recreation.
Common complaints"Trails are not marked, and we had poor cell service." (Stephen Rang) "Noise from traffic on US98 close by." (Paul Jaccod)
HostNo on-site staff available.
Campground Map
1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10: Take Exit 12 onto I-110 exit 1B Gregory Street East, merge onto 30 E Chase Street, turn left onto Bayfront Parkway /Hwy 98 East. Stay on U.S. 98 for 4.1 miles, parking for outdoor activities is available on both sides of the road. National Seashore Headquarters is located on the right.
Accessible year-round by paved roads. Interstate 10 and U.S. 98 provide direct access. Some user reviews mention heavy traffic and construction on nearby roads.Nearby places
Gulf Breeze: 0 miles
Pensacola: approximately 5 miles
Milton: approximately 25 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Gulf Breeze, including grocery stores, fuel stations, and general retail stores within 2 miles.
Camper Reviews
4.3
15 reviews
Naval Live Oaks Youth Group Camping is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is well-regarded for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and access to outdoor recreation. However, some users highlight minor maintenance issues and the challenges posed by nearby traffic noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users consistently praise the natural beauty, hiking trails, and tranquil setting. 'The stunning coastline took my breath away,' said one reviewer.
Based on 15 reviewsCommon Concerns
Concerns include poorly marked trails, unreliable cell service, and a neglected fire pit. One reviewer noted, 'The fire pit... had been really neglected.'
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing a map or compass, especially for trail exploration, and note the importance of water and sun protection during hikes.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is highlighted for its warm weather and swimming opportunities, though temperatures can exceed 84°F. Cooler months (December-February) are praised for mild hiking conditions.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
'There are miles of nature trails that are a reflection of what it was like before people inhabited the coastal region,' wrote one reviewer. Another noted, 'Naval Live Oaks is a sanctuary where...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews are available, as the campground offers only one group site.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited mainly to the picnic pavilion and restrooms. A user remarked on the challenges wheelchair users may face in undeveloped areas.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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