Living Here
In Hamilton County, visitors will enjoy a pristine side of Florida rich in local heritage. If you are a fan of either nature or history, there is plenty to see and do. The Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center, located in White Springs, is nestled in the midst of towering pines and moss draped oaks on the banks of the Suwannee River, offering a picturesque setting for exhibits and special events. In addition, the heritage and culture of Florida come alive through folk art, crafts and performing arts. The outdoor enthusiast will be delighted to view wildlife in its native habitat, while everyone who visits will surely enjoy driving along roadways that are carpeted by fields of seasonal wildflowers.
Exploring the history and charm of the towns of Jasper, Jennings, and White Springs, visitors soon discover why Hamilton County was named Florida’s first countywide Main Street Community. Strolling shady streets and narrow lanes reveals the true spirit and forgotten flair of small town Florida.
Featured Activity
Suwannee River Wilderness State Trail
White Springs
White Springs, located along the upper Suwannee River is a popular starting point for paddlers on the Suwanee River Wilderness Trail. Here, the river is narrow and flows through towering pines and stately cypress that line steep riverbanks and high bluffs. Limestone cliffs and outcroppings, and white sandbars make the upper Suwannee an ideal setting for picnics and leisurely canoe or kayak outings.
Antique and art shops, Bed & Breakfasts and restaurants entice visitors to stay a while in White Springs. Stop by local outfitters to customize a paddling trip, a half-day paddling trip or an overnight adventure, including a trip to Big Shoals, Florida’s only Class III white water rapids.
While in White Springs, visit Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, with museums highlighting the musical career of the artist who made the Suwannee River famous. Stephen Foster’s campground, vacation cabins and canoe launch make it an ideal base camp for exploring the area.
Our Waters
The waters of Hamilton County’s rivers, crystal clear springs and numerous lakes are an unending source of possibilities for those who enjoy fishing, canoeing, boating, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and diving; its banks and surrounding habitats offer a world of possibilities of camping, hunting, hiking, biking, photography, wildlife observation and exploring.
Our History
While Hamilton County is undeniably a natural treasure, it is equally valuable as one of Florida’s historic treasures. Currently, there are more than 90 sites and structures on the National Register of Historic Places, which makes Hamilton County a popular destination for both casual history buffs and more serious genealogy researchers.
Our Events
Chili Cook Off
3rd Saturday in February
Jasper Woman’s Club
386-792-1300
Visit Website
Wild Azalea Festival
3rd Saturday in March
Downtown White Springs
386-397-2310
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Withlacoochee Spring Trail Ride
3rd Weekend in March
McCulley Farms, Jasper
386-938-1147
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Antique Tractor Show
1st Thursday – Saturday in April Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-4331 Visit Website
Hamilton County Championship Rodeo
2nd Weekend in May
Hamilton County Arena, Jasper
386-792-1300
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Florida Folk Festival
Memorial Weekend Friday-Sunday
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-2733
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Wild Blackberry Festival
2nd Saturday in June
Downtown Jasper
386-288-6914
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Independence Day Celebration
Friday before July 4th
Cunningham Park, Jennings
386-938-4131
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4th of July Celebration
Hamilton County Recreation Center, Jasper
386-792-3098
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Antiques Arts & Collectibles
3rd Saturday of July
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-4331
Visit Website
Come to the River 5k and Healing Arts Festival
1st Saturday in September
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-4331
Visit Website
Hamilton County Events Day Fair
1st Thursday in October
Hamilton County Arena, Jasper
386-792-1312
www.ifas.org
Jeanie & Stephen Foster Auditions & Ball
1st weekend in October
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-792-4331
Visit Website
Withlacoochee Fall Trail Rides
3rd Weekend in October
McCulley Farms, Jasper
386-938-1147
Visit Website
Suwannee River Quilt Show & Sale
3rd Weekend in October
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-4331
Visit Website
Haunted Old Jail
Last weekend in October & October 31
Old Jail Museum Jasper
386-855-0652
oldjailfl@gmail.com
Big Shoals Pumpkin Fest
3rd Saturday in October
Big Shoals State Park, White Springs
386-397-4331
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Pioneer Days
First Saturday in November
Hamilton County Historical Museum & Heritage Center
386-792-1300
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Sweets N the Streets Festival & Christmas Parade
2nd Saturday in December
Downtown Jasper
386-792-1300
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White Springs Christmas Parade
1st Friday in December
Downtown White Springs
386-397-2310
Festival of Lights
Month of December beginning 1st Friday in December thru December 24th
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
386-397-4331
Visit Website
New Year Weekend Trail Ride
December 31 – Jan 1
McCulley Farms Trial Rides
386-938-1147
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