Free Things to Do With the Family in Columbia County, Florida
Crystal clear, cool freshwater springs, a Civil War battlefield and one of Florida’s first tourist destinations all await you in Columbia County.
Millions of visitors touring the Sunshine State travel on Interstate 10 and 75 that both intersect about an hour’s drive west of Jacksonville and less than an hour north of Gainesville. If your family is seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Columbia County offers all that and more—and many of them are free!
Whether you’ve got a few minutes, a few hours or a few days in the county, here are a few suggestions for affordable family fun.
Short Stopovers
Falling Creek Falls, located only minutes north of I-10 Exit 301, provides families with a quick escape into nature. Park your car and stroll along a short trail into a forested area. You’ll find a sturdy boardwalk leading to an observation point with views of the creek. As you continue along the path, the falls come into view.
Stained by natural river tannins, the water looks like tea gushing over a limestone ledge. To hear the water crashing down into a rocky ravine amidst the lush landscape of native trees makes this a multisensory experience. Be sure to bring your camera to capture this tranquil scene. Exit the way you came in or complete the 0.6-mile loop that returns to the parking area. Restrooms, picnic tables and a playground make this a perfect pit stop for families. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily (8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in winter).
One of Florida’s only waterfalls, Falling Creek Falls, Columbia County.
Full Days of Fun
Springs throughout the picturesque North Florida area draw families to Columbia County. Swimming, snorkeling, canoeing and kayaking can help you beat the heat and get closer to Florida’s natural beauty.
Rum Island Spring and Park, open year-round, offers free access to the spring and the Santa Fe River. The clear water and shallow, sandy areas are ideal for kids. Enjoy a picnic lunch, fish from the bluffs, or use the boat ramp to put your canoe or kayak in the water. Weekdays and early morning hours are the best times to visit to avoid peak crowds.
Dive into the clear blue waters of Rum Island Spring and Park.
Alligator Lake Recreation Area is known for its 12 miles of hiking and biking trails through 1,000 acres of green space and wetlands south of downtown Lake City. Spanish moss drapes live oak and cypress trees here, providing a canopy for your adventures. Elevated boardwalks offer a safe vantage point over swampy waters where you might spot an alligator or two.
If your family is with a large group visiting Alligator Lake, you all will especially enjoy the covered picnic pavilions, a large, shaded accessible playground and a sand volleyball court. Use of the park is free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday.
Alligator Lake Park features a variety of trails and adventures to get up close with Florida wildlife.
Lake DeSoto welcomes locals and visitors alike to historic downtown Lake City. Pedestrian lanes around the perimeter of the lake make this a popular spot for walking and biking. You can cast a line in the lake if you are so inclined. How often can you catch bass or bluegill in the heart of a city? Spread out a blanket for a picnic lunch, and you might see a family of ducks, turtles or other wildlife roaming about.
Lake DeSoto is one of Columbia County’s most scenic lakes, located in historic downtown Lake City.
Just a few blocks away, Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum is where you can learn about the local history. Post Civil War muskets found in Lake DeSoto and other eclectic artifacts are displayed in a two-story home. Volunteers, dressed in period costumes, sing, dance and share living history demonstrations here each February as part of the Olustee Festival, a free, two-day arts and crafts show in downtown Lake City.
Signature Events
Columbia County knows how to celebrate. With signature events like the Annual Fourth of July Celebration, Florida Gateway Fair, Christmas in Columbia Holiday Market, and many more, there is always something to look forward to in Columbia County. Check our the rest of our amazing yearly events and plan a trip to celebrate with us.
Fireworks light up the sky at the annual Fourth of July Celebration.
With so much to do, it’s no wonder Columbia County is known as Florida’s Gateway. All roads lead to nature, history and memorable outdoor experiences for families, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
