Putnam County is a hidden gem in Northeastern Florida, conveniently located less than 90 minutes from Ocala, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach. Orlando is a two-hour drive. The County’s location provides for a myriad of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida and interact with its unique history.
Putnam County is home to multiple state parks and conservation areas excellent for hiking, even during Florida’s warm, humid summers. At Ravine Gardens State Park, enjoy dramatic views of well-worn ravines turned into a garden while meandering across suspension bridges and stone staircases. Plan to visit January through March to view the vibrant colors of azalea season. Welaka State Forest offers hikers one of the most well-preserved natural sections of the St. John’s River. If you’re careful, you may even spot a gopher turtle. Equestrian Trails are also on-site. Ocala National Forest is Home to the world’s largest contiguous scrub forest and the state’s largest population Florida black bears. The massive forest covers almost 450,000 acres with over a dozen day hiking options, a wealth of backpacking trails, and trails for horseback riding.
Bicyclists can choose from paved, winding trails or more wild, natural rides in Putnam County. The Palatka to St. Augustine Trail is a nineteen mile long paved trail with mixed landscapes for cyclists to traverse. For an extended experience, easily connect to the St. Johns River to Sea Loop, a 260-mile loop that includes a national seashore, Florida State Parks, national monuments, national wildlife refuges, springs, and museums. Ocala National Forest delivers again with Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail specifically for mountain bikers, which includes two interconnected loops — the Alexander Loop and the Clearwater Loop—for a total of 22 miles. The trail rolls through sand hills and longleaf pines. For a more leisurely experience, Rim Loop Road at Ravine Gardens State Park is a 1.8 mile ride that takes riders into the ravine, past picnic areas, and through scenic views. After 4:00 P.M., the road is closed to motor vehicles, making late afternoon a preferred time for cyclists.
Putnam County is known as the “Bass Capital of the World” and home to 3 of the “Top 10” places to fish bass in Florida. Anglers can choose from freshwater, saltwater, and brackish water fishing. Multiple access points for boats are available along the St. John’s River. There are also nearly endless banks to enjoy inshore fishing. Bass are perhaps the most popular catches, but the salinity levels in some parts of the river make it home to a wide variety of fish, including shad, mullet, catfish, bluegills, shellcrackers, shiners, redfish, speckled trout, flounder, snook, and tarpon (insert guidesly link). Fishermen who want a more cultivated experience can easily find vendors who offer fishing charters and excursions.
Multiple lakes are connected to the St. John’s that also offer outstanding fishing: Little Lake George, Lake George, Lake Dexter, Stagger Mud Lake, Lake Beresford, Lake Monroe, Lake Jesup, Lake Harney, and Puzzle Lake.
Less than an hour away are miles and miles of Atlantic coastline and world-famous fishing spots that can be enjoyed year-round. Saltwater species include red fish, flounder, sea trout, tarpon, and shrimp.
Hunters will discover the county to be a wonderful natural playground. Ocala National Forest offers nearly 400,000 acres with a variety of habitats for good small game hunting. Dogs are permitted. Watch for bears! Try Caravelle Ranch Conservation Area for excellent turkey hunting. For slightly more exotic wildlife, try Dunn Creek Conservation Area, home to alligators, bobcats, raccoons, white-tailed deer and gray fox and four 50-acre dove fields.
Private hunts can also be arranged. Hunters can hunt a variety of game, including alligators, with God’s Country Outfitters. 7 C’s provides hunts for exotic animals, deer, and turkey. Roberts Ranch offers hunting for large bucks, wild hogs, and exotic game. They also put on European-style pheasant hunts.
Diverse terrain in Putnam County will please off-roaders of all types. Ocala National Forest provides close to 200 miles of ATV/motorcycle trails through deep woods, mud, sand, and gravel. Ocala Centennial OHV Trail System, 45 minutes away, winds 47 miles through the largest sand pine scrub on earth. Less than two hours will take riders to Croom Motorcycle Area at Withlacoochee State Forest and Spyder MX Action Sports Complex.
For a specifically designed park, try Hog Waller Campground & ATV Resort, which boasts more than 50 miles of trails, family amenities, and showers. The park is part of active timber and cattle operation and hosts events throughout the year. The 6-acre mud pit is especially popular.
Putnam County is excellent for swimmers looking for a natural experience. An abundance of stunning springs are nearby with freshwater snorkeling that will make you think you are in the tropics. Swimmers can also visit a variety of other unique swimming locales.
Mud Springs in Welaka State Forest is a glistening spring for swimming that runs into the St. Johns River. The park itself houses a particularly well-preserved natural section of the river. Entrance fees are only $2. For families with small children, visit Alexander Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest. Swimmers can enjoy a beach that leads into the crystal clear spring basin. The water is always 72°F. Ginnie Springs, Fanning Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs State Park can all be reached within 90 minutes.
Visitors to Melrose Bay Park https://melrosefl.com/melrose-bay-park/ on Melrose Bay will find a sandy beach for play amidst hanging Spanish moss and beautiful tree cover. The area was once home to a port that connected steamboat to railroad. Swimmers may even get to watch the local rowing team practice. Go for a dip at Lake Stella Park, Beach, Recreation Area. Public restrooms, picnic tables, and a small playground allow for spending a leisurely day lakeside. For a longer stay with a wealth of amenities, make your way to Horsehoe Lake Park & Retreat. The retreat provides rentals for cabin and large event facilities, as well as an assortment of water toys.
If bathing in the sea is more your speed, Crescent Beach, with its aquamarine water and white sand, is less than an hour drive. Parking is convenient at the beachfront park and the more adventurous can attempt surf lessons. With a permit and fee, visitors can even drive on the beach!
While Florida’s attractions are generally well-known, many quieter and more natural adventures can still be found. Putnam County is an excellent location for doing just that. For questions about land we have for sale in Putnam County or other regions, contact us directly at (636) 695-8800 or info@e24land.com.
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