Perry: The Heart of Taylor County
Perry, Florida is a charming small town nestled in Taylor County along Florida’s Gulf Coast. With its rich history, natural beauty, and southern hospitality, Perry offers visitors an authentic slice of rural Florida charm away from the state’s busier tourist destinations.
Originally named Rosehead for the wild roses that grew abundantly in the area, Perry was renamed in 1875 after Florida Governor Madison Starke Perry. The town’s economy was built on timber and turpentine industries, with the railroad’s arrival in 1893 transforming it into a significant regional hub.
Today, Perry serves as the county seat of Taylor County with a population of approximately 7,000 residents. The downtown area features historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants that maintain the town’s old Florida character.
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What to See in Perry
Nature enthusiasts will find Perry an ideal base for exploring Taylor County’s natural attractions, including:
- The Forest Capital Museum State Park, showcasing the area’s lumber industry heritage
- The Taylor County Historical Society, offering insights into the region’s past through various exhibits and preserved artifacts
- Perry’s Historic District, featuring buildings dating back to the early 20th century
For a taste of local culture, time your visit around the Florida Forest Festival held annually in October, celebrating the area’s forestry heritage with parades, competitions, and traditional food.
Coastal Communities of Taylor County
Perry serves as the perfect gateway to explore the wider Taylor County region, which offers diverse natural attractions and small coastal communities worth visiting.
Steinhatchee
Located about 25 miles southwest of Perry, Steinhatchee offers a quintessential Florida fishing village experience. This small community straddling the Steinhatchee River is renowned for:
- World-class scalloping during summer season (typically July-September)
- Year-round fishing opportunities for trout, redfish, and grouper
- Charming waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood
- Vacation rentals and fishing charters
Keaton Beach
Just 18 miles south of Perry, Keaton Beach is a quiet coastal hamlet known for:
- Public boat ramps providing access to some of Florida’s best inshore fishing
- Shallow waters ideal for flats fishing
- Family-friendly beaches with picnic areas
- Stunning Gulf sunsets
Natural Areas to Explore
Econfina River State Park
This 4,500-acre park showcases diverse ecosystems including:
- Pine flatwoods and coastal marshes
- A 2.2-mile hiking trail through natural Florida landscapes
- Excellent paddling opportunities on the Econfina River
- Wildlife viewing including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species
Big Bend Wildlife Management Area
This vast tract of protected land allows visitors to:
- Hunt during designated seasons (permit required)
- Observe native wildlife in natural habitats
- Experience primitive camping
- Explore miles of unpaved roads through diverse ecosystems
Hagen’s Cove
This unique coastal area offers:
- Shallow waters extending far into the Gulf
- Excellent bird watching opportunities
- Wade fishing without a boat
- Spectacular sunset views over the water
Small Towns and Communities
The county is dotted with small historical communities including:
- Salem: A small historical community offering a glimpse into rural Florida’s past
- Shady Grove: Traditional small-town Florida life with a tight-knit community
- Eridu and Foley: Tiny crossroad communities that preserve the region’s agricultural heritage
Why Visit Taylor County?
Taylor County represents an authentic, unpretentious slice of “Old Florida” that provides visitors a refreshing alternative to the state’s more commercialized destinations. The region’s extensive public lands, coastal communities, and outdoor recreation opportunities make it an ideal destination for those seeking to connect with Florida’s natural treasures and rural culture.
Fishing, scalloping, hiking, or simply exploring small-town Florida charm, Perry and the surrounding Taylor County area offer a genuine experience far removed from the typical tourist trail.
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