By Mike Miller May 3, 2025
Camp Blanding Museum and Memorial Park, near Starke, Florida, honors the military history of Camp Blanding. Housed in a restored World War II barracks, the museum showcases artifacts, photos, and exhibits.
Outside, visitors can explore military vehicles, aircraft, and memorials. It’s a free, family-friendly site run by the Florida National Guard, offering a glimpse into the sacrifices of service members.
Camp Blanding, established in 1939, served as a major training center during World War II. It trained over 800,000 soldiers, making it Florida’s fourth-largest “city” at its peak.
The camp also housed German prisoners of war. Today, it remains an active training base for the Florida National Guard.
The museum, opened in 1990, preserves this history, focusing on the camp’s role in World War II and later conflicts.
Exhibits include uniforms, weapons, and a diorama of the POW camp, connecting visitors to the past.
The museum is located at 5629 State Road 16 West, Building 3040, Starke, FL 32091, just outside Camp Blanding’s main gate. It’s open daily from 12 PM to 4 PM. Call (904) 682-3196 to confirm hours.
Admission is free, but donations support operations. Allow about 1.5 hours to explore indoor exhibits and outdoor displays. Parking is available for cars, but RVs may find it tight. Restrooms and a small gift shop are on-site.
The nearest food is in Starke, eight miles away. Guided tours are available, and staff are knowledgeable. Check the website for updates on events like “Night at the Museum.”
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