QC
CITY SPOTLIGHT Turkey Creek Pavilion.
The “Enjoy Niceville” sign depicted with mullet celebrates Niceville’s fishing heritage.
NATURE
Small City, Immense Amenities Niceville’s recreational area appeals to residents and visitors alike by William Prince City of Niceville
T NICEVILLE Okaloosa County Pop. 14,976
he City of Niceville has grown from a small fishing village into one of the most desirable places to live, work and raise a family in the state due to outstanding schools, an abundance of recreation opportunities, great neighborhoods and proximity to the beautiful beaches of the Emerald Coast. Countless military members have chosen to retire to Niceville after falling in love with the area while stationed at nearby Eglin Air Force Base, Duke Field or Hurlburt Field. When founded in the late 1860s, the Community of Boggy was named for its location on Boggy Bayou in Okaloosa County. In 1910, the Community took on a new identity when it was renamed the City of Niceville and then incorporated in 1938. Niceville is bordered by Choctawhatchee Bay to the south and the Eglin Reservation to the north. This location among natural surroundings has made outdoor recreation a staple in the City. One of Niceville’s popular recreational attractions is Turkey Creek Nature Trail consisting of more than 100 acres of conservation land. Residents and visitors can exercise while enjoying the outdoors and nature’s beauty along the scenic, mile-long boardwalk. The pavilion is a prime location for gatherings, and the swimming areas are perfect for cooling off on summer days. Wildlife is plentiful, and people of all ages can be seen canoeing, kayaking and tubing down the creek. There is something for everyone at Turkey Creek, but how did this all come to be? For decades, Turkey Creek naturally supported recreation such as swimming, fishing and
14 QUALITY CITIES | FIRST QUARTER 2022
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF NICEVILLE
Tubing at Turkey Creek.
