GULF ISLANDS NATIONAL SEASHORE

recreation areas in the United States located near Gulfport and Biloxi, southern Mississippi, and near Pensacola, northwestern Florida. The total area of 212 square miles (549 square km) is nearly equally divided between Florida and Mississippi. In Florida the offshore islands and keys have historical ruins and white sandy beaches, as well as the Naval Live Oaks wilderness area. In Mississippi the offshore islands have historical ruins (notably Fort Massachusetts on West Ship Island) and wildlife sanctuaries accessible only by boat. At Ocean Springs, on the mainland near Biloxi, is the area's headquarters and an urban park with nature trails, picnic areas, and a campground.