Farm Tours and Fresh From the Garden Flavors in Putnam County

From the heat of rare, sought-after peppers, to the sweetness of berries right off the vine, there’s an array of flavors to be found in Putnam County – including some that are hard to find anywhere else. Our local farms hold some fun experiences for visitors who are eager to get a closer look at our area’s agricultural offerings. Winemakers come looking for muscadine grapes, tea enthusiasts visit to learn about the revitalization of the nation’s only caffeinated plant, and families looking for a fun day out flock to Putnam County’s u-pick farms when strawberries and blueberries are in season. 

If you’re taking a farm tour in Putnam County, keep in mind that these are working, family-run farms. Some offer free, personalized tours. However, you’ll need to reserve these in advance to make sure someone is there. 

Our area has some great places to pick your own fruit as well, but those typically operate on a seasonal basis when these local delicacies are ripe for the picking. The weather can play a role in this, and depending on the year, the season may start earlier or later. We encourage you to give them a call before going to confirm when they’re open.

Farm Tours in Putnam County:

Mayhem Datil Pepper Farm:

• What to expect:  The Datil pepper is one of the iconic foods that has deep roots in northeast Florida. You typically can’t find this coveted pepper anywhere else but this region. This is one of the few commercial producers, and their mission is to help preserve this unique regional plant. Free farm tours are available, and you’ll have a chance to see the plants, learn about their history, and get tips for growing your own. Just make sure you schedule your tour at least 48 hours in advance. 
• Address: 138 George Main Drive  Pomona Park, Florida 32181

Ever After Farms Vineyard:

• What to expect: If you’ve never tried muscadine grapes, this is the place to do it. Ever After Farms grows seven different varietals of this unique and nutrient-rich fruit, and you can come pick your own right off the vine while they’re ripe, which is usually mid-July through early September. The grapes make tasty snacks, but are also great for winemaking. Although the farm doesn’t make it, many visitors come to the farm to pick their own muscadine grapes to use in homemade wine. The farm also hosts events at the farm occasionally, including Bible studies and Pilates classes at sunrise. 
• Address: 372 Sisco Road  Pomona Park, Florida 32181

HNH Blueberry Farm: 

• What to expect: During blueberry season, visitors are welcome to come to the farm to pick their own blueberries. Buckets are provided, and you’ll be able to walk among the plants and pick as much as you like. The berries are weighed, and you’re charged by the pound. Typically the peak season is April-May, but that can vary each year. 
• Address: 130 Bostwick Park Drive  Palatka, Florida

NuBerry Farms: 

• What to expect: This farm grows blueberries and blackberries, and you have the option to pick your own or have them pick the berries for you. You’re charged by the pound, and it’s a little less to pick your own. Just make sure you bring cash, as they don’t accept credit cards. They also have other homemade delicacies available for purchase, such as their scrumptious blackberry preserves. They are open on a seasonal basis, which is typically April-May. 
• Address: 394 South County Road 315  Interlachen, Florida 32148

Towers Family Farms: 

• What to expect: This locally-owned farm grows blueberries and strawberries and you have the opportunity to come out and pick your own. Baskets are available, and you can take a walk through the field and hand-select your own berries. Towers Family Farms is open on select days during peak season, which is typically March-April for strawberries, and April-May for blueberries. The farm also occasionally hosts seasonal events and workshops at their venue called The Woodland Meadows  .  
• Address: 487 Millican Road  Palatka, Florida 32177

Eagles Nest Farms: 

• What to expect: Eagles Nest Farms is the headquarters of Yaupon Brothers American Tea Co. Yaupon Holly is the only caffeinated plant that is native to the United States, and when you take a tour, you can see this intriguing plant up close and learn about its interesting history. The farm itself is also one of the oldest organic farms in Florida, though it has produced other crops over the years. You can book a free farm tour, but you’ll need to contact the Yaupon Brothers team in advance to set it up. 
• Address: 470 Old Highway 17  Crescent City, Florida 32112

Other Places to Get Farm-Fresh Produce in Putnam County:

Palatka Farmers Market:

• What to expect: This charming farmers market is held on the first and third Saturdays of the month, September through May. You’ll find a wide array of booths set up with locals selling fresh produce. You can also see the handiwork of some of the area’s best artisans. There is often a theme for each market, including Derby Day and Christmas celebrations, and often additional free activities for the kids. 
• Address: 410 St. Johns Avenue  Palatka, Florida 32177

East Palatka Fruit Market: 

• What to expect: This family-owned market is open all throughout the year, and you can stop in to check out the fresh flavors Tuesday-Sunday. The inventory evolves based on what’s in season, but you can find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that may include Datil peppers, blueberries, field peas, sweet corn, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, okra, microgreens, mushrooms, and collard, mustard, and turnip greens. East Palatka Fruit Market also carries fresh farm beef from Herrington Cattle in San Mateo and Palatka Cattle Company, as well as potted plants and flowers. 
• Address: 161 South Highway 17  East Palatka, Florida 32131

For even more fun, you can plan your trip around one of Putnam County’s fun festivals, such as the Bostwick Blueberry Festival that takes place each April during blueberry season. The day starts off with a blueberry pancake breakfast, and you can also try other favorites, like blueberry ice cream and pies. It’s a full day of family fun that includes live music, activities for the kids, and more. To stay up to date on all of the events in Putnam County, check out the event calendar. Also be sure to download the Visit Putnam FL app for Apple or Android.