Columbia County

Florida's North Region

In it, on it, under it - if it has to do with water, Lake City is where you want to be. Lake City and Columbia County are the hub for the nation's most outstanding canoeing, tubing, and diving venues. Being the best has earned this area the title "Freshwater Recreation Capital of America". Here's why Florida's Gateway City can make this claim: More than 100 springs are located within a 50 mile radius of Lake City, including world-famous Ichetucknee Springs and the cave diving mecca of Ginnie Springs.

Columbia County is bordered by the scenic Santa Fe River on the south and the legendary Suwannee River on the northern border. Further establishing the area as a freshwater haven are dozens of lakes within the borders of Lake City, along with Olustee Beach at Ocean Pond, and inside the Osceola National Forest.

In addition to canoeing, tubing and diving, the area's rivers and lakes provide excellent opportunities for fishing, recreational boating, skiing, jet skiing, bird watching and camping.

The Stephen Foster State Folk Culture Center fulfills two purposes. Appropriately situated on the Suwannee River, the 247 acre center honors the memory of Foster, whose song "Old Folks at Home" memorialized the picturesque stream. It also serves as a gathering place for those who perpetuate the crafts, music and legends of early and contemporary Floridians.

For those whose shopping passion is for antiques, there are many shops in Columbia County. Several are located in downtown Lake City. Hours vary with the majority of the shops, the best bet is to simply take a drive starting with the downtown area. Enjoy the many shops, but don’t let your passion stop just in downtown. Explore the entire area. Webb’s Antique Mall is the largest in the area with over 200 dealers under one roof. In addition to antique shops, you may have the good fortune to visit during one of our many antique auctions.