Situated between Tallahassee and Jacksonville in North Central Florida, the small town of White Springs is home to one of the country’s largest and oldest folk festivals and is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, from epic river adventures and whitewater rapids to some of the best hiking in the state.
Stephen Foster Folk Center State Park, which hosts the annual Florida Folk Festival, and Big Shoals State Park are two must-see parks in White Springs. At Stephen Foster, visitors can paddle and fish the iconic Suwannee River, hike along the Florida National Scenic Trail, camp, mountain bike, and listen to carillon music drifting from the park’s 200-foot-high bell tower. Stephen Foster is also where the historic Spring House, which has been drawing visitors since the 1800s, can be found, and the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, which includes a network of river camps and parks, is a bucket-list item for many Florida paddlers and adventurers
At Big Shoals, less than four miles from Stephen Foster, hikers can look down from 80-foot limestone bluffs for breathtaking views of the largest whitewater rapids in Florida. In all, the park offers more than 28 miles of wooded trails for scenic hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding.
The history of White Springs is evident in its buildings and businesses, including Suwannee Hardware & Feed and the 1905 boarding house that’s now White Springs Bed ’n Breakfast. The eateries in town offer Southern fare, barbecue, and more, with Fat Belly’s, Milton’s Country Store Restaurant & Campground, and Southern Cravins among the local favorites. More dining and shopping options can be found in Lake City just 13 miles away.
Plan your trip at Visit Hamilton.
WATERWAYS
Explore one of Florida’s most famous rivers.
FAMILY FUN
Discover family-friendly parks, trails, and playgrounds.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Check out popular events and festivals, learn about the city’s history, and visit the state park museum.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Hike, bike, paddle, fish, and explore the trails and parks.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out the area’s accessible parks.
DINING
Sit down to a plate of barbecue or Southern-style favorites.
SHOPPING
Visit the unique stores of White Springs.
PLACES TO STAY
Stay at a campground, cozy bed and breakfast, vacation rental, or motel.
