Palatka is in the center of the major attractions in North Florida. 50 miles south of Jacksonville, 30 miles east of Gainesville, 50 miles north of Orlando, 30 miles southwest of St. Augustine and 50 miles northwest of Daytona Beach. When you get tired of life in the fast lane, stay in town, walk the shops in downtown, Fish at the pier on the St. Johns River. Visit Ocala National Forest for a nice day of swimming in one of the springs within the forrest, camp in one of the campgrounds.. Palatka is a nice place to visit.