Coldwell Banker Ben Bates

To celebrate 50 years of guiding people home in Palatka and Putnam County, Florida, Coldwell Banker Ben Bates is reminiscing on everything that makes Putnam County special—from its stunning natural beauty along the St. Johns River to vibrant local festivals and charming small-town vibes. Whether you're a prospective homeowner exploring the area or a visitor discovering hidden gems, this list highlights 101 ways to experience the heart of Northeast Florida. Dive in and see why Putnam County is the perfect place to put down roots!

1-40: Things to Do in Putnam County's Towns

Putnam County's towns offer unique local flavors, from historic sites in Palatka to serene lakeside spots in Crescent City. Explore Palatka, Crescent City, Welaka, Satsuma, and smaller communities like Melrose, East Palatka, and more.

• Stroll through Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka for azalea blooms and hiking trails.
• Admire the City of Murals in downtown Palatka, featuring vibrant street art.
• Relax at Riverfront Park in Palatka along the St. Johns River.
• Visit the St. Johns River Center in Palatka for interactive exhibits on local ecology.
• Tour the Bronson-Mulholland House in Palatka for a glimpse into 19th-century history.
• Explore Palatka Water Works and historic homes from the 1800s.
• Sky dive at Skydive Palatka for an adrenaline rush over the river.
• Kayak tours from Palatka's blueways and trails.
• Shop downtown Palatka's boutiques and enjoy local art shows.
• Visit East Palatka's riverfront for fishing spots and quiet walks.
• Hike in Crescent City's Bird Watching Trail for spotting local wildlife.
• Rent boats at Hallie's Landing on Crescent Lake in Crescent City.
• Browse the Country Antiques Mall in Crescent City.
• Play disc golf or pickleball at Eva Lyon Park in Crescent City.
• Enjoy lakeside relaxation at Dexter Beach Park in Crescent City.
• Explore Melrose's lakes for boating and swimming in a peaceful setting.
• Hike Welaka State Forest trails and visit Mud Springs.
• Tour the Welaka National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium.
• Book a fishing charter with Welaka Charters.
• Picnic and birdwatch in Welaka's parks.
• Horseback ride in Welaka State Forest.
• Visit Satsuma's Log Cabin Farm, Vineyard & Winery for tastings.
• Take an airboat tour at Alligator Kingdom in Satsuma.
• Fish along the St. Johns River in Satsuma.
• Kayak or canoe from Satsuma's boat ramps.
• Discover Interlachen's Ocala National Forest edges for off-road exploring.
• Boat on Lake George near Pomona Park.
• Hike in Florahome's rural trails and enjoy country drives.
• Visit San Mateo's historic sites and river access.
• Explore Georgetown's quiet waterfront for picnics.
• Attend local church events in Hollister.
• Drive through Bostwick's scenic farmlands.
• Shop Bardin's small stores and community spots.
• Relax at local parks in East Palatka.
• Enjoy farm-fresh produce markets in smaller towns like Florahome.
• Take a self-guided mural tour extension from Palatka to nearby areas.
• Visit antique shops in Crescent City and Satsuma.
• Play golf at local courses near Palatka and Crescent City.
• Explore Tanglewylde Nature Park near Crescent City for bluffs and trails.
• Paddleboard on Crescent Lake in Crescent City.

41-60: Ways to Connect with Nature in Putnam County

Putnam County's lush landscapes, rivers, and forests provide endless opportunities to unwind and appreciate Florida's wild side.

• Wander the ravines at Ravine Gardens State Park.
• Observe fish at Welaka National Fish Hatchery.
• Hike Dunns Creek State Park's diverse ecosystems.
• Explore Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area for wildlife viewing.
• Walk the Salt Springs Observation Trail near Welaka.
• Birdwatch along the Great Florida Birding Trail in Welaka.
• Visit Rice Creek Conservation Area for swamp and creek views.
• Discover springs like Mud Springs in Welaka State Forest.
• Picnic at Tanglewylde Nature Park overlooking the St. Johns.
• Hike the Bartram Trail through Putnam's historic paths.
• Spot alligators on river cruises.
• Explore Ocala National Forest fringes near Interlachen.
• Visit Juniper Springs for swimming (nearby access).
• Walk nature trails at Putnam County parks.
• Observe seasonal blooms in state parks.
• Stargaze in rural areas like Florahome.
• Follow the Putnam Blueways for scenic paddles.
• Visit the William Bartram trails network.
• Relax at lakes in Melrose.
• Tour the St. Johns River Center's nature exhibits.

61-85: Outdoor Activities in Putnam County

Get active with boating, hiking, and more in this outdoor paradise.

• Boat and fish on the St. Johns River.
• Kayak Putnam's blueways and trails.
• Hike the 1.8-mile paved loop at Ravine Gardens.
• Bike along riverfront paths in Palatka.
• Swim in natural springs like those near Welaka.
• Horseback ride in state forests.
• Camp at Welaka State Forest (permit required).
• Paddleboard on Crescent Lake.
• Golf at Palatka Golf Club or The Oaks.
• Airboat through alligator habitats in Satsuma.
• Hike Rice Creek's 5-mile loop.
• Fish at Welaka's charters.
• Picnic at county parks and recreation areas.
• Birdwatch in conservation areas.
• Rent boats at Boathouse Riverfront.
• Trail run in Dunns Creek State Park.
• Play disc golf in Crescent City.
• Hunt in wildlife management areas (seasonal).
• Snorkel in nearby springs.
• Cycle the Palatka to St. Augustine Trail.
• Waterski on the St. Johns.
• Geocache in state parks.
• Stand-up paddleboard tours.
• Off-road in Ocala National Forest near county lines.
• Join guided eco-tours on the river.

86-101: Local Events in Putnam County

Join the community spirit with festivals, markets, and seasonal happenings that showcase our culture.

• Attend the Blue Crab Festival in Palatka.
• Celebrate the Johns River Catfish Festival.
• Enjoy the Blueberry Festival.
• Shop at Palatka Farmers Market.
• Participate in October Artwalk-Mosaics.
• Play in the 100th Anniversary Golf Tournament.
• Visit Bristol Oaks Fall on the Farm.
• Watch SJR State Vikings Volleyball games.
• Stroll at Palatka Wine Stroll.
• Experience Sunset events or riverboat tours.
• Join Welaka Walks community hikes.
• Attend holiday events and church festivals in small towns.
• Participate in non-profit theater plays in Palatka.
• Enjoy free community events via Eventbrite listings.
• Celebrate at county fairs and waterways meetings.
• Discover ongoing happenings through Putnam County Chamber events.