We have a large population of water snakes since we live near a creek, and it's very easy to get close or even touch them even though they're healthy. There are lots of gigantic rocks (I mean like, hundreds of pounds) that are wedged up about three or four inches off the ground by other rocks. The snakes are always near easy cover and a great basking spot, so I think this makes them bolder than they'd normally be. It's a really unique little area, though it's a little less fun when the copperheads decide they're going to sit there and be just as bold...
But mostly, the snakes around here just run. My dog will chase them to cover somewhere and I can catch them then. Not a lot of garters in this area though...