Live Oak Landing consists of 175 acres of beautiful land with highway access and a half-mile of waterfront. The property is surrounded by county, state, and Forever Wild conservation land encompassing a total area of approximately 1,500 acres on the eastern side of the Tensaw River. An additional 300,000 acres of pristine and protected wetlands lie to the west, buffering the property from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Owned by Baldwin County and having undergone the first phase of improvements, Live Oak Landing has expanded to include 28 RV sites, easily accessible boat ramps, fishing piers, and an event pavilion. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, canoeing, a catch and release fishing pond, and a variety of activities and events in the laid-back atmosphere of the middle Mobile-Tensaw Delta.
Prior to Baldwin County’s improvements of the property, Live Oak Landing has operated under private ownership for more than a half-century, catering to local fisherman, hunters, and those looking to get away from more hectic areas to enjoy the relaxation of the Delta.
Live Oak Landing has always been a family friendly environment, allowing visitors and locals to revive themselves in the serenity and charm of the Delta. Live Oak Landing was originally built on family-owned land by John and Davida Hastie, in 1948. The Hasties operated Live Oak Landing for 32 years, during which time the Landing become a second home to their family and the residents of Stockton, Alabama. A much-loved safe space, many local children learned to fish and waterski during the Hastie’s time, but more importantly, they also learned about nature and developed a greater appreciation and love for the uniqueness of the Delta environment. Davida Hastie was described as “One of South Alabama’s foremost historians and a lover and preserver of natural resources. She was committed to the environment long before environmental concerns became more popular in the mainstream. She left her mark on the woods and waters of this area which she loved so dearly.” This love of the natural environment was passed on to the many generations who spent time at Live Oak Landing.
It is therefore vital for Live Oak Landing, now managed by the Baldwin County Commission, to hold a new vision for the future that extends far beyond this first stage of RV amenities and boat ramps, and also encompasses the love for nature, history and education that has been a hallmark of Live Oak Landing from the very beginning. This new vision establishes Live Oak Landing as the Eco/Adventure destination for the South, and the leading gateway for eco/adventure experiences in the middle Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Taking a leaf from the Hastie’s book, day visitors and the local community will continue to have free access to the recreation area, while internally, the aim is to develop sustainable practices, infrastructure and educational programs which will not only benefit the local community and provide additional valuable resources, but also act as a draw for families, groups, and experience seekers, looking for some of their own ‘delta magic.’
Eventually, as the concept and amenities at Live Oak Landing expand, the option for immersive experiences with an athletic edge, delivered in a natural sustainable habitat, may be provided. Live Oak Landing has the potential to grow into a creative multi-use site operating under various internationally recognized sustainable environmental standards, including LEEDS and ISO 14001. The setting at Live Oak Landing provides the perfect stage for Baldwin County to become a leader in the development of a sustainable tourism concept, benefitting the local community while also raising the profile of our County and State.
Live Oak Landing is located only thirty minutes northeast of Mobile, Alabama via the I-65 corridor in North Baldwin County. Situated within one-hour or less of three major public/private airports and only five-minutes off the interstate, Live Oak Landing is easily accessible to all vehicles. The Landing is the perfect stepping off point for exploring and experiencing North Baldwin County, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Coastal Alabama, and the incredible natural, cultural, and historical diversity of this region.
John and Davida Hastie introduced the delta’s magic at Live Oak Landing to many generations of locals and visitors alike, and in this spirit, we invite you to stop by, bring your family, and create your own Delta memories.