It seems as though our area is just being discovered and everyone wants a piece of our "paradise" - from fishing and hunting to strolling our downtown area, we are sure our community will have something to offer you. So come...get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life, enjoy our friendly, laid back atmosphere and discover the "Gateway to Florida's Nature Coast!"
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Taylor County, Perry Florida
*Located in the northern section of Florida.
~Located in the deepest indention of the Gulf Coastline, Perry is the County seat.~
*It is said " all roads lead to Perry."
~~Located 51 miles SE of Tallahassee, 90 miles W of Gainesville and 120 miles SW of Jacksonville.
Bordered by Jefferson, Madison, Lafayette, and Dixie counties.~~
*In the early 1800's the community took on an integral role in the Forestry Industry.
~It is now known as the "Tree Capital of the South". Every year the Florida Forest Festival is held to celebrate and honor the roots of the community. Thousands flock from all over the nation to enjoy good food, good music and a good time. The festival includes a Parade, Carnival, Car Show, Pageant, Free Fish Fry and MUCH MORE during a week in October. 2005 marked the 50th Anniversary.~~
*Named after the 12th President of the United States, Zachary Taylor.
~1856~
*Population as of 2004:19,291 (County).
~~In 1980: 16,532; Expected by 2010: 22,048~~
*Has 60 miles of coastline, 4 rivers and numerous creeks and streams.
~~Our waters have been declared "pristine". 85% is unspoiled and owned by the State.~~
Popular Pastimes
**Fishing (& hunting) is abundant here. Whether it's from land, boat, guided charter tour or off our 700 ft. pier - you are almost guaranteed a catch.
~~Econfina River is great for flats fishing and is rumored to have the best trout fishing in the State. There is lot's of action at the mouth of the Aucilla and a chance to reel in some of the best Red Fish in Florida. October - November Spotted Sea Trout invade the Steinhatchee River - you may want to try your luck. Go out and cast a line, you could bring home Spanish Mackerel, Tarpon, Flounder and more!
If you'd rather spend the day in the woods, we have plenty and there are numerous Hunting Clubs in our area.
**Scallop Season opens July 1st and is very popular in our area. Taylor County is one of the few places harvesting your own Scallops is still allowed.
~~All you need for some family fun is a snorkel mask, water shoes/fins, a mesh bag and saltwater fishing license. If you're unsure where to begin ask the locals where the "hotspots" are and head out. Accommodations at the beach are limited, reservations begin in March.~~
**If you like to Canoe, we have a few trails you might want to try out!
~~The Aucilla River borders us on the East and offers a 19 mile canoe trail. For the Novices, the Econfina River State Park offers a 4 mile run, which is about a 2 hour trip. If you're looking for an overnight expedition, try out the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail - the state's first legislatively designated water trail - which will take you from St. Marks to the Suwannee, a 105 mile trip lasting 9 days and 8 nights.~~
**Because we have less development here, Mother Nature is at her best! If you're for the bird's, we have six birding sites here that are part of The Florida West Coast Birding Trail.
~~Hickory Mound Impoundment, Aucilla Sinks Trail, Adams Beach, Hagan's Cove and Tide Swamp Wildlife Management Area are 4 of the 6 sites where a variety of birds, from the Reddish Egret to Short Billed Dowitcher, can be spotted.~~
**If you just want to relax and soak up the rays, come out to Keaton Beach.
~~While you're there have a cookout under the pavilion, stroll on the pier, visit the gift shops or eat at the famous Keaton Beach Hot Dog Stand. If you're in the mood for scenery, the drive from Perry to Keaton Beach (17 miles South) and then on to Steinhatchee (17 miles North) is known as the "Scenic Coastal Loop"...be sure to catch a sunset over the water!~~
**Whether you are staying awhile or just passing through, we have many local accommodations.
Find information on local motels, hotels, and campgrounds at our Taylor County Chamber link or check out the NEW! Perry-KOA.
Education/Recreation/Healthcare
*Taylor County has 7 schools in it's district, including one in Steinhatchee and Taylor Technical Institute, numerous daycares and preschools and Universities and Community Colleges close by.
~~The Technical Institute is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education. It's purpose is to provide quality vocational and adult education through high school completion, employment training, career advancement and more. Whichever school your child attends, teachers and staff are committed to : "Education Priority # 1".
If your looking to start college, North Florida Community College, Tallahassee Community College and Florida State University are just an hour away and the University of Florida isn't too much further.~~
*If you're looking for some recreational activity for the kids or a place for some fun family time, check out what our community offers:
~~A movie theatre, skating rink, Tea Room, parks, local museum, cracker homestead, horse trails, Steinhatchee Falls, beaches, golf course, campgrounds, Karate, Gymnastics, Gyms rec league sports (a new sports complex for all of our rec leagues is in the works) offer entertainment for children and adult's alike. Throughout the year our county officials hold many special events for all local citizens to enjoy and participate in...don't miss out on Santa by airboat, the Bluegrass Festival and much more!
* In Taylor County we have many facilities committed to keeping you, your family and your pets
healthy and safe!
~~Doctors Memorial Hospital has been serving our community and the communities of Madison, Dixie, Lafayette since 1957. A new facility has been completed offering 48 beds and professional care. Other providers of medical care and safety in our community include Premier Medical Clinic, numerous doctor offices with qualified physicians, Taylor County Health Department, Dental offices, Chiropractic offices, Big Ben Hospice, Marshall Health & Rehab, Veterinarian offices, eye care centers, Apalachee Center, Fire Departments, county Jail, Sheriffs office, Taylor County Emergency Management, Animal Control, pharmacies and Neighborhood Crime Watch.~~
Whether you are looking for a permanent change or just a place to get-away, we know you will love fall in love! Take a drive and pay us a visit...and leave knowing why Taylor County is
"Florida's Best Kept Secret!"
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For more details on any of the above information, please click on the link below!
Discover Taylor County!
For pictures, click on the link below!
Take a Glance!
