Hamilton County
Welcome to Florida’s Front Porch
With a temperate climate all year and some of the lowest costs of living in the state, Hamilton County in North Florida is ideal for someone looking to enjoy a slower pace of life. The area is full of rural, southern charm and features tons of amenities that make the region feel like home. The county hosts several festivals throughout the year, drawing artisans from all over the state to share knowledge and keep folk culture alive. Hamilton also possesses dozens of nationally registered historical buildings and access to rivers, lakes, and springs for all your outdoor recreation needs. While southern Florida is known for its beaches, Hamilton County’s rich cultural and natural resources make it the ideal place to plant roots.
- Arts and Culture
- Education
- Outdoor Recreation
Folk Culture Lives On
One of the greatest assets of Hamilton County is its rich culture and history. The Stephen Forster Folk Culture Center in the White Springs region is home to the oldest folk festival in the country, The Florida Folk Festival. This event takes place over three days and hosts more than 300 performances. Artisans and craftsmen from all over the state travel to share their skills and sell their artworks. Other popular events include the Wild Azalea Festival and Wild Blackberry Festivals. The Hamilton County Championship Rodeo is another crowd favorite for all ages as it boasts amazing riding and delicious food. You cannot go wrong with all the cultural events Hamilton has to offer.
Choose Your Path
The Hamilton County School District is the primary school system for families in the area. The district offers both AP and gifted programs, allowing students and families to take advantage of rigorous academics if they choose. It is also a recipient of the Silver Healthy District Award, a recognition of all schools that provide infrastructure and programs that maximize the physical and mental health of students and faculty. The district recognizes that local public schools may not be the best option for some students, so it is a part of the Florida Empowerment Scholarship Program. This scholarship provides funds to low-income students so they can attend private schools or receive transportation to another public school in the area.
Enjoy Lush Natural Amenities
Between the rivers, lakes and natural springs in the area, Hamilton County residents can enjoy most water-based activities. Boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and swimming are all major past times in the area, drawing many visitors year-round. The Stephen Forster Folk Culture Center State Park is a great place to experience the nature of Hamilton County. The park has miles of trails, making it an excellent place for hiking, biking and birdwatching. These lush landscapes are some of the greatest hidden gems of North Florida, so don’t miss out on all the natural wonders of Hamilton County.