About NSB Kings Bay
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, located in Kings Bay, Georgia, near the Florida-Georgia border, serves as the East Coast homeport for the U.S. Navy’s ballistic missile submarines.
The base is home to the Ohio-class submarines, and it plays a critical role in the U.S. strategic deterrent program. Kings Bay is a key naval installation responsible for the maintenance, training, and support of the Navy’s submarine fleet, including ballistic missile and guided-missile submarines.
Kings Bay Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay or planning a move to the southeastern Georgia area, this veterans guide will provide everything you need to settle in. Whether you’re looking for housing options both on and off base or exploring local cities like St. Marys and Jacksonville, our guide is designed to assist veterans and their families. Learn more about military discounts, local attractions, and financial resources available to veterans stationed at Kings Bay.
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (912) 573-7600
- Housing Office: +1 (912) 573-7601
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (912) 573-7602
- Family Support Office: +1 (912) 573-7603
- Legal Office: +1 (912) 573-7604
Address: Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, 1063 USS Tennessee Ave, Kings Bay, GA 31547, United States
Mission
NSB Kings Bay serves as the hub for the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine force, ensuring readiness for strategic deterrence and global operations. The base also supports maintenance, training, and housing for submariners and their families.
History
- Established: 1978
- Key Historical Facts:
- Originally developed as an Army amphibious base in the 1950s.
- Converted to a naval base in the late 1970s for the Trident Program.
- Officially became operational in 1982, housing ballistic missile submarines.
- Continues to evolve with advanced submarine technologies and facilities.
Location
- Address: NSB Kings Bay, 1063 USS Tennessee Ave, Kings Bay Base, GA 31547
- Coordinates: 30.7815° N, 81.5375° W
- Website: NSB Kings Bay Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Closed weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7.
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Jacksonville International Airport: Take I-95 N to Exit 1 (St. Marys Rd). Follow signs to NSB Kings Bay Main Gate (approx. 30 minutes).
- From Downtown Jacksonville: Head north on I-95 to Exit 1, then follow St. Marys Rd to the base entrance (approx. 40 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 9,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 2,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 6,500
- Total Population Served: Over 17,500
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Kings Bay offers privatized on-base housing managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Off-base housing options are available in St. Marys, Kingsland, and Jacksonville, FL. Contact the Housing Office for assistance at +1 (912) 573-7601.
- Off-base housing includes a mix of rental homes and properties for sale in St. Marys, Kingsland, and Jacksonville, Florida.
- Current median home prices in St. Marys: $290,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is located near Interstate 95, offering convenient access to Jacksonville, FL, and Savannah, GA. Personal vehicles are recommended for commuting, as public transportation is limited in the surrounding areas.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care is provided by Naval Branch Health Clinic Kings Bay, offering primary care, specialty care, and emergency services for base personnel. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (912) 573-7602 for more information.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options include the Galley and several fast-food outlets. Off-base, nearby St. Marys and Kingsland offer a variety of dining experiences, including seafood restaurants and local eateries.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Kings Bay features several fitness centers, offering cardio equipment, weights, group fitness classes, and sports facilities. Outdoor recreation areas, including parks and jogging trails, are available for military personnel and their families.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at Kings Bay. Children of military personnel typically attend schools in the Camden County School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in St. Marys and Kingsland, GA. Higher education opportunities are available at Coastal Pines Technical College and University of North Florida in nearby Jacksonville.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Kings Bay operates a Child Development Center, offering daycare services, preschool programs, and after-school care for children of military personnel. Contact the CDC for enrollment details.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Kings Bay is located near the St. Marys River and Cumberland Island National Seashore, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore both on and off base.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and Navy Exchange for shopping needs. Off-base, St. Marys, Kingsland, and Jacksonville offer a wide variety of shopping and dining options, including malls and local restaurants.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local VFW and American Legion posts in St. Marys and Kingsland provide support and services for veterans and military personnel.
- Family Support Office: Offers deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy services, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (912) 573-7603.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (912) 573-7604 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Established in 1978, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is home to the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet ballistic missile submarines. The base plays a vital role in maintaining national security and supporting the Navy’s strategic deterrence mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What submarines are stationed at NSB Kings Bay? | The base is home to the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines, specifically Trident-class submarines. |
| Can civilians visit NSB Kings Bay? | Civilians require authorization to access the base. Public tours are not available due to security measures. |
| Is there an on-base commissary? | Yes, NSB Kings Bay has a commissary offering groceries and household goods at discounted prices. |
| Are there recreational facilities on base? | Yes, the base features fitness centers, marinas, golf courses, and more for recreational activities. |
| What are the housing options at NSB Kings Bay? | On-base housing is available for eligible personnel, and off-base options can be found in nearby communities like Kingsland and St. Marys. |
| How do I access medical care at NSB Kings Bay? | The Naval Branch Health Clinic provides healthcare services for eligible personnel. Additional care is available at local civilian hospitals. |
| Are there schools on base for children? | Yes, on-base schools serve younger children, and families also have access to Camden County public schools or private institutions in the area. |
| What is the nearest airport to NSB Kings Bay? | Jacksonville International Airport is the nearest major airport, approximately 30 minutes away by car. |
| Does NSB Kings Bay offer child care services? | Yes, the base provides child development centers and youth programs for children of various age groups. |
| Are there any restrictions for base access? | Access is restricted to authorized personnel, their dependents, and visitors with proper authorization. |
