Florence County, Wisconsin
Florence County sits in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, right along the Michigan border. More than half of the county is public land, giving outdoor enthusiasts plenty of room for hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and exploring.
The county’s lakes and rivers attract anglers, kayakers, and canoeists throughout the year. ATV riding is also a major attraction, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through the forests and countryside. With such a small population and wide-open spaces, it’s easy to find a quiet place to escape the crowds.
Autumn brings brilliant colors to the forests, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the changing leaves. Winters are long and snowy, but that makes Florence County a favorite for snowmobiling and other cold-weather activities. It may feel remote to some, but for those who love the Northwoods, that’s exactly the point.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Florence County |
| County Seat | Florence |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Florence, Long Lake, Fence, Tipler, Aurora |
| Interstates and Highways | US-2, WI-70 |
| Etymology | Named after Florence Hulst, the first white woman to settle in the area |
| FIPS Code | 55-037 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 498 sq mi (Land: 488 sq mi; Water: 10 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 45.9230° N, 88.3914° W |
| Major Landmarks | Keyes Peak Ski Hill, Florence Wild River State Natural Area, Spread Eagle Barrens State Natural Area |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Iron County, Michigan (North), Dickinson County, Michigan (East), Marinette County, Wisconsin (Southeast), Forest County, Wisconsin (Southwest) |
| Population | Approximately 4,500 |
