Marion County is situated in Central Florida, and is considered the southernmost county in North Central Florida with the city of Ocala being its largest city and head seat. Approximately 331,298 people call Marion County home throughout its 1,663 square miles. With beautiful rolling hills and an abundance of greenery, the county is home to exotic wildlife and picturesque horse farms. Known as the horse capital of the world and one of only four major thoroughbred centers in the world, Marion County has produced 6 Kentucky Derby winners, 45 national champions, 20 Breeders’ Cup champions and 6 horses of the year; that’s quite something!
Marion County is also home to the second largest nationally protected forest in Florida, the Ocala National Forest covers a whopping 607 square miles, it is also the oldest national forest west of the Mississippi River and the southernmost national forest in the continental U.S. Imagine the fantastic hiking trails! The County is also home to some of the most famous natural springs in the world. Rainbow Springs Park, just 3 miles north of Dunnellon, makes up 1,459.07 acres of beautiful Central Florida land. People from around the world come to visit the park and its main attraction, the glistening Rainbow Springs. From canoeing, tubing, kayaking and fishing, the Springs has something for everyone.
Some honorable mentions for nearby springs include: • Salt Springs • Silver Glen Springs • Juniper Springs • Alexander Springs
The best bass fishing in the state can be found at lakes and rivers throughout the county. Lake Jumper, Lake Kerr and Withlacoochee River are just some of many places you can drop a line and spend an afternoon fishing.
Marion County’s prime location allows for easy access to some of Florida’s major cities, Orlando only being an hour and fifteen-minute drive, a day trip to Disney World is a great option. Enjoy the Atlantic coast, an hour and a half to the East and the Gulf Mexico an hour a fifteen minute to the West. Recreational activities are endless!
The residents of Marion County, Florida have the added benefit of living a peaceful life in the rural outskirts while still enjoying the fun and exciting activities that can be found throughout the county.
The Land Store handpicks beautiful properties throughout Marion County, build your dream home or weekend oasis, breed championship horses or simply make a secure investment in one of the most beautiful counties in the Sunshine State.
