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National Defense Land Use
Military Training Exercises
Defending the U.S. and protecting military personnel requires continuous and realistic training. The Navy’s Pinecastle Range on the Ocala National Forest, Florida provides unique conditions and an ideal setting for our sailors, Marines and combat aircrew to conduct this essential training.
Several branches of the military use federal land on the Ocala National Forest for training exercises. The Navy has been training in the area since World War II. Special Use Permits are issued to the Armed Forces including the National Guard, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) units, U.S. Army Special Forces and the United States Navy. Most of the permits are for short periods of time and issued for each individual outing.
Portions of the Ocala National Forest are temporarily closed during training exercises. Visitors are advised to check the Alerts and Notices page on this website for temporary area closures.
Map of the vicinity and closure gates
PINECASTLE RANGE COMPLEX TRAINING WILL IMPACT OCALA NATIONAL FOREST (JUNE 28-JULY 2):
NAS JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Navy training schedules indicate that live and inert bombing will take place at the Pinecastle Range Complex located on the Ocala National Forest (ONF) during the following dates/times: June 28- July 2, 2023 (from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. (Live/Inert). To submit a training-related noise complaint, please email: nasjax.noisecomplaints@us.navy.mil.
During bombing periods, wildlife may be temporarily displaced. Use extra caution when driving through the ONF and surrounding areas. Secure any items around your residence which could attract wildlife. Always be mindful of larger animals, including black bears, and practice bearwise <http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/bear/wise/neighborhood/> measures.
The Navy has activated the Pinecastle Range Complex Boundary "Safety Zone" near Ocala NF, June 28 - July 2, 2023. This involves closing Gates 36-42 to support multiple military training events. For public safety, please note the following:
* Closed sections of Centennial and Big Scrub Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails. Riders may use alternative trailheads. Offloading on roads is not permitted.
* Backpackers and dispersed campers must stay within vicinity of Florida National Scenic Trail.
* Training noise may startle wildlife. Use extra caution driving through the Forest. Be prepared to stop quickly.
* Secure outdoor food items, which may attract wildlife. Be aware of large animals and practice "bearwise" measures.
The Pinecastle Range is a critical asset to the Navy’s Global Maritime Strategy and the war against terror. It ensures naval air wing components qualify in strike warfare training, command and control, power projection, and air defense missions.
The Navy often employs simulators and synthetic training assets to provide early skill repetition and to enhance teamwork, but live training in a realistic environment such as the Pinecastle Range, Ocala National Forest, Florida is absolutely necessary to ensure success in combat. This element of training cannot be simulated by any other means.
The Navy understands and recognizes the potential for training activities to affect the community and takes proactive steps to minimize these impacts on citizens and the environment.
This part of the Ocala National Forest is habitat for Florida scrub-jays. Learn more at: Journal of Forestry: Sand Pine and Florida Scrub-Jays.