Palatka is located in
Putnam County (of which it is the county seat) south of
Jacksonville between
Green Cove Springs and
Georgetown along US Highway 17 on the banks of the St Johns River near Crescent Lake, the
Ocala National Forest and Lake George. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 10,891, an increase of 444 since 1990.
Palatka, also known as the "Bass Capital of the World," earns its reputation from the St. Johns River's wealth of largemouth bass, speckled perch, bream, striped bass and catfish. The river has a vast array of fish camps, resorts and facilities to accommodate fishermen of every level of expertise. Nature enthusiasts also enjoy hiking the Florida Trail, which runs through Palatka.
Nearby is Ravine Gardens State Park, where picnickers, drivers and hikers can enjoy 85 acres of scenic terrain high-lighted with 100,000 azaleas and over 22,000 other subtropical plants.