Marion County was created from portions of Alachua and Mosquito counties in 1844 and was named for General Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox" of the Revolutionary War.

The largest city in Marion County is Ocala, which is the county seat.  Home to more than 270,000 people, Marion County is known for its world-famous horse farms, sprawling orange groves and warm people and weather.

Its close proximity to the University of Florida in nearby Gainesville and its attractiveness to adult-community developers, make Marion County home to Floridians young and old.

When you visit Marion County, be sure to visit Don Garlits’ Museum of Drag Racing, Fort King and Silver Springs.