Perry and Taylor County offer outdoor enthusiasts a genuine Florida experience away from the tourist crowds. The region’s diverse landscapes – from Gulf waters to forests and rivers – provide year-round opportunities for recreation in natural settings. Here’s your guide to making the most of Perry’s outdoor offerings.
Fishing Paradise
Taylor County’s 60+ miles of coastline make it a premier fishing destination for anglers of all experience levels.
Gulf Fishing: Charter boats operating from Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee offer access to some of Florida’s best offshore fishing. Grouper, snapper, cobia, and amberjack are common catches in these productive waters.
Flats and Inshore: The shallow, grassy flats of the Gulf provide world-class opportunities for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Hiring a local guide can help you locate the most productive spots.
Freshwater Options: The Econfina, Aucilla, and Steinhatchee Rivers offer excellent freshwater fishing for bass, bream, and catfish. The Econfina River is particularly scenic, with its tea-colored waters flowing through forests of cypress and oak.
Scalloping: During season (typically July through September), recreational scalloping in the shallow waters off Taylor County becomes a favorite activity. This underwater treasure hunt requires only basic snorkeling gear and is perfect for families.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
While different from Florida’s white-sand tourist beaches, Taylor County’s coastline offers a more natural Gulf experience.
Keaton Beach: This small coastal community features a public boat ramp, fishing pier, and small beach area. It’s particularly popular during scallop season.
Hagen’s Cove: This coastal park offers excellent bird watching, fishing, and paddling opportunities. The shallow waters make it ideal for wading and observing marine life.
Dark Island: Accessible only by boat, this undeveloped barrier island provides a glimpse of untouched Florida coastline and excellent shelling opportunities.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Perry’s surrounding forests and conservation areas offer miles of trails through diverse ecosystems.
Forest Capital Museum State Park: Beyond the museum itself, the park features nature trails through pine forests typical of North Florida.
Econfina River State Park: Explore hiking trails through palm hammocks and pine flatwoods leading to scenic views of the Econfina River.
San Pedro Bay: This vast wetland complex north of Perry offers primitive hiking opportunities for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
Big Bend Wildlife Management Area: With several units surrounding Perry, these conservation lands offer miles of hiking trails with opportunities to spot deer, turkey, and numerous bird species.
Paddling Adventures
The rivers and coastal waters around Perry are perfect for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts.
Econfina River Paddling Trail: This designated paddling trail offers a peaceful journey through pristine Florida landscapes.
Aucilla River: Paddlers on this blackwater river can explore limestone sinkholes and may even spot archaeological sites along the banks.
Coastal Paddling: The protected salt marshes and tidal creeks along Taylor County’s coast provide ideal conditions for exploring by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Hunting
With vast tracts of managed wildlife areas, Perry is a destination for ethical hunting.
Big Bend Wildlife Management Area: During appropriate seasons, hunters can pursue deer, wild turkey, small game, and wild hog in designated areas.
Spring Creek Unit: This management area is particularly popular for waterfowl hunting.
Hickory Mound Unit: Known for excellent deer and turkey hunting opportunities.
Note: Always check current regulations and obtain appropriate licenses before hunting.
Camping
Experience the natural beauty of Taylor County overnight at these camping locations.
Econfina River State Park: Offers primitive camping sites for those looking to truly disconnect.
Keaton Beach Boat Ramp: RV camping available with water and electrical hookups.
Private Campgrounds: Several private operations around Perry and coastal areas offer facilities ranging from tent sites to full RV hookups.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March-May): Comfortable temperatures and active wildlife make this ideal for hiking and freshwater fishing.
Summer (June-August): Perfect for scalloping and early morning fishing, though afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Fall (September-November): The most comfortable season for extended outdoor activities with mild temperatures and fewer insects.
Winter (December-February): Excellent for bird watching as migratory species arrive. Fishing remains productive on mild days.
Local Tips
- Always carry insect repellent, especially during warmer months
- Check tide charts before planning coastal activities
- Stop by local bait shops for the most current fishing information
- Early mornings typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities
- Hydrate properly – Florida’s humidity can lead to faster dehydration than you might expect
Whether you’re casting a line, paddling a quiet river, or hiking through pine forests, Perry’s natural areas offer authentic outdoor experiences that showcase the real Florida.
