Trump seeks Florida presidential retreat modeled on Camp David at West Palm Beach golf club

Proposal for a southern presidential retreat

Donald Trump has proposed converting a portion of Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, into a permanent presidential retreat modeled on Camp David. The project envisions creating a dedicated federal compound to host foreign heads of state, international diplomatic summits, and future American presidents during vacations. Palm Beach County owns the underlying land on which the golf course operates, and the submission requests that local commissioners transfer a parcel of the property to the federal government. Trump has offered to finance the full construction costs for the presidential residence and supporting infrastructure. The proposal also specifies that all subsequent U.S. presidents would receive complimentary memberships to the private golf club.

In a submission sent to local officials, golf course attorney Harvey Oyer compared the planned Florida site to established international diplomatic estates.

Just as Camp David, Windsor Castle, or the Elysee Palace are known worldwide, so too will the Presidential Golf Course in Palm Beach County.

Site details and local governance review

The formal petition was delivered to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, where county administrator leadership and commissioners began evaluating the request. Oyer stated that the naming of the presidential golf course has not yet been determined, but stated the venue would expand the international visibility of the region. Project representatives noted that construction work would not finish prior to the conclusion of Trump's current term in office, framing the finished facility as a gift to future administrations. The Trump family business would retain ownership of the commercial club facilities around the designated retreat perimeter, potentially drawing higher commercial revenue from increased activity.

It would further cement Palm Beach County as one of the most recognizable brands and destinations in the world.

Operational specifications and White House rationale

The proposal follows a series of local renamings across Palm Beach County, where conservative political activity and networking around Mar-a-Lago have altered the surrounding municipal footprint. A roadway adjacent to the property and the nearby international airport have already been renamed in honor of Trump. A White House official familiar with the plan described the golf course as an optimal setting for executive functions due to its proximity to transit links and local law enforcement.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the White House official detailed the defensive and logistical attributes of the property.

The property is minutes away from the Donald J. Trump International Airport, does not have buildings looming, does not have houses along the course, has great security features, is close to law enforcement, and happens to be a highly-rated golf course. These are features that are necessary for any presidential retreat.

Next steps in county evaluation

Unlike previous presidents who made frequent use of Camp David in Maryland, Trump has consistently preferred his private Florida estates for both personal leisure and official summitry. While spokespersons for the Trump Organization did not respond to requests for comment, county officials confirmed they are actively seeking additional details about the proposed land transfer. The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners must determine whether to deed the requested acreage before any federal construction or zoning modifications can proceed.