About Camp Blanding
Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, located in Starke, Florida, is a 73,000-acre military training facility operated by the Florida National Guard.
It serves as a key training location for active-duty military, reserve units, National Guard units, and law enforcement agencies. The center provides a wide variety of training environments, including ranges, maneuver areas, and training simulators, making it one of the most comprehensive training centers in the southeastern U.S.
In this Article
Camp Blanding Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Camp Blanding or planning a move to this training post in Northeast Florida, our veterans guide provides all the information you need. From on-base and off-base housing options to nearby cities like Starke and Jacksonville, this guide is your go-to resource for housing, local services, and military discounts. It also covers financial resources and local attractions for veterans and their families stationed at Camp Blanding.
Camp Blanding Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (904) 966-3000
- Housing Office: +1 (904) 966-3001
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (904) 966-3002
- Family Support Office: +1 (904) 966-3003
- Legal Office: +1 (904) 966-3004
Address: Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, 5629 State Road 16 West, Starke, FL 32091, United States
Mission
Camp Blanding supports the Florida National Guard and various military branches by providing a comprehensive range of training opportunities.
The center hosts diverse operations, including combat readiness, disaster relief training, and international troop collaborations. Its mission is to enhance the preparedness of military and civilian forces alike.
History
- Established: 1939
- Historical Significance:
- Served as a major training site during World War II for U.S. Army divisions.
- Transitioned to a National Guard training facility in the post-war era.
- Expanded over the decades to include modern ranges, urban training villages, and simulators.
Location
- Location: Starke, Florida, USA
- Coordinates: 29.9937° N, 81.9846° W
- Website: Camp Blanding Official Website
- Phone: (904) 682-3000
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
- Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate:
- Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
Address:
Camp Blanding Joint Training Center
5629 FL-16 W
Starke, FL 32091
Driving Directions:
- From Jacksonville International Airport: Take I-95 S to FL-16 W. Follow FL-16 W for approximately 40 miles to the main entrance.
- From Gainesville: Take FL-24 E and FL-16 E for around 30 miles to reach the base.
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 1,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 500
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 1,000
- Total Population Served: Over 2,500
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Camp Blanding offers limited on-base housing. Off-base housing options are available in nearby Starke and Jacksonville. Contact the Housing Office for more information at +1 (904) 966-3001.
- Off-base housing includes rental homes, townhomes, and properties for sale in Starke, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas.
- Current median home prices in Starke: $210,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Camp Blanding is located near State Road 16 and U.S. Highway 301, providing easy access to nearby cities. On-base shuttle services are available for personnel. Personal vehicles are recommended for commuting.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care for Camp Blanding personnel is provided through the Florida National Guard. Additional healthcare services are available at nearby facilities in Starke and Jacksonville. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (904) 966-3002.
- Dining Facilities: The base offers a small dining facility for military personnel. Off-base, nearby Starke and Jacksonville provide a variety of dining options, including fast food and local restaurants.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Camp Blanding has a fitness center with cardio equipment, weight rooms, and group fitness classes. The base also offers outdoor recreational facilities, such as sports fields, hiking trails, and access to Kingsley Lake for water sports.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: Camp Blanding does not have on-base schools. Children of military personnel attend schools in the Bradford County School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base can access schools in nearby Starke, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas. Higher education opportunities are available at St. Johns River State College and University of North Florida.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Camp Blanding does not have a Child Development Center. Families can explore childcare options in nearby Starke or Jacksonville.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Camp Blanding is located near Kingsley Lake, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The surrounding area provides plenty of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in nearby parks.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has limited on-base shopping options, but nearby Starke and Jacksonville offer a wide range of shopping centers and dining options, including Starke Plaza and River City Marketplace in Jacksonville.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local veterans organizations, including VFW and American Legion posts in Starke and Jacksonville, provide support and services for military personnel and veterans.
- Family Support Office: Offers deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy services, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (904) 966-3003.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (904) 966-3004 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Camp Blanding Joint Training Center is a key training facility for the Florida National Guard. Established in 1939, the base plays a critical role in providing training for the National Guard, active-duty military personnel, and law enforcement agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can civilians visit Camp Blanding? | Civilians can access specific areas like the museum and recreational facilities. Check with the Visitor Center for access details and guidelines. |
| What training opportunities are offered? | The base supports diverse training, including combat readiness, urban warfare simulations, disaster response, and aviation drills. |
| Is there a museum on base? | Yes, the Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park offers exhibits on the base’s World War II history and the role of the Florida National Guard. |
| Are there recreational facilities? | Camp Blanding features fishing, camping, and boating facilities for authorized personnel and their families. Check availability and permissions before planning a visit. |
| What support is available for families? | The Family Support Office provides counseling, relocation assistance, and financial resources to military families stationed at the base. |
| How do I contact the housing office? | You can reach the Housing Office at +1 (904) 682-3171 for assistance with on-base and off-base housing options. |
| Does Camp Blanding host public events? | Yes, the base occasionally hosts public events such as military displays, open houses, and educational programs. Visit the official website for upcoming events. |
| What is the closest airport to the base? | Jacksonville International Airport is the nearest major airport, located about 55 miles northeast of the base. |
