Enjoy Palatka & Putnam County, Florida!

Welcome to Putnam County, Florida! Located in the northeastern part of the state, this charming county is known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreation opportunities. With its small-town charm and relaxed pace of life, Putnam County is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

The county seat is the city of Palatka, known for its charming downtown district and historic architecture. But Putnam County is much more than just Palatka. The county encompasses a variety of unique communities, including Crescent City, Interlachen, and Welaka, each with its own distinct personality and attractions.

Our Top Ten Local Destinations:

1. Ravine Gardens State Park: Located in Palatka, Ravine Gardens State Park is a beautiful park that features two ravines with steep banks that have been transformed into a unique botanical garden. Visitors can hike, picnic, and explore the gardens' many walking trails. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ravine-gardens-state-park

2. St. Johns River Center: The St. Johns River Center is a museum and cultural center located in downtown Palatka. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the St. Johns River and its role in shaping the local community. https://sjrcenter.org/

3. Ocala National Forest: The Ocala National Forest is a vast wilderness area located in Putnam County. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in this beautiful natural setting. https://www.fs.usda.gov/ocala/

4. Fort Gates Ferry: The Fort Gates Ferry is a historic ferry that crosses the St. Johns River near Welaka. Visitors can take a ride on the ferry and enjoy the scenic views of the river and surrounding wilderness. https://www.putnam-fl.com/visitors/fortgatesferry.aspx

5. Putnam County Historical Museum: The Putnam County Historical Museum is located in Palatka and features exhibits on the area's history, including the Civil War, Native American culture, and local industry. http://putnamcountyhistoricalsociety.com/

6. Blue Spring State Park: Blue Spring State Park is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The park features crystal-clear water and an underwater cave system that's perfect for exploration. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park

7. Dunns Creek State Park: Dunns Creek State Park is a beautiful park located in Pomona Park. Visitors can hike, fish, or take a scenic boat ride on the creek. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators and manatees. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/dunns-creek-state-park

8. Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail: The Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The trail runs for 47 miles through scenic woodlands, wetlands, and small towns. https://www.floridastateparks.org/trail/Palatka-Lake-Butler

9. Welaka National Fish Hatchery: The Welaka National Fish Hatchery is a facility that raises fish for stocking in lakes and rivers across Florida. Visitors can take a tour and learn about the hatchery's important role in managing the state's fisheries. https://www.fws.gov/welaka/

10. Rice Creek Conservation Area: Rice Creek Conservation Area is a nature preserve located in Palatka. Visitors can hike, fish, or paddle on the creek and see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and wild turkeys. The preserve also has a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, pine forests, and cypress swamps. https://www.putnam-fl.com/visitors/ricecreek.aspx

We hope this list of our top ten local destinations inspires you to explore all that Putnam County has to offer. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone here.

In addition to the attractions listed above, Putnam County is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Azalea Festival, the Blue Crab Festival, and the Welaka Catfish Festival.

If you're looking for a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out Putnam County's thriving agriculture and culinary scene. The county is known for its citrus groves, seafood, and farm-to-table restaurants serving up fresh, local ingredients.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, Putnam County is a wonderful place to call home. We invite you to explore this vibrant and welcoming community and discover all that makes it such a special place to be.