Highlands County, Florida
Highlands County is a great destination for freshwater fishing, with some of Florida’s best freshwater lakes attracting anglers throughout the year. Fishing isn’t the only outdoor adventure here—locals and visitors also enjoy airboat rides and swamp buggy tours through the region’s natural landscapes.
Located in the heart of Central Florida, Highlands County sits far from the state’s major beaches. Rolling hills and orange groves shape much of the scenery, while Lake Placid, known as the “Town of Murals,” draws art lovers with its colorful outdoor paintings.
Sebring, the county seat, is famous for its international raceway, while Highlands Hammock State Park offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Snowbirds are drawn to the area’s warm winters and relaxed small-town atmosphere, making Highlands County feel like authentic Florida without the typical tourist traps.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Highlands County |
| County Seat | Sebring |
| Etymology | Named for the highland areas within the county |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Sebring, Avon Park, Lake Placid, Lake Placid, Lorida |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. 27, U.S. 98, SR 70, SR 64 |
| FIPS Code | 12-055 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,106 square miles (land: 1,029 sq mi, water: 77 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Osceola County (Northeast), Okeechobee County (East), Glades County (South), Charlotte County (Southwest), DeSoto County (West), Hardee County (West), Polk County (North) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Florida |
| Coordinates | 27.4692° N, 81.5001° W |
| Major Landmarks | Highlands Hammock State Park, Sebring International Raceway, Lake Istokpoga |
| Population | Approximately 120,000 |
PHYSICAL MAP
Highlands County Topographic Map
This topographic map of Highlands County highlights its numerous lakes, forests, and agricultural fields. Use the zoom tool to explore Highlands Hammock State Park and elevations rising above 300 feet, placing the area among some of Florida’s highest elevations.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Highlands County Satellite Map
Our satellite map of Highlands County shows Lake Istokpoga dominating the central part of the county. Sebring sits on higher ground between several lakes, while the Lake Wales Ridge creates a prominent north-to-south geographic spine across the landscape.
OUTLINE MAP
Highlands County Blank Map
This Highlands County outline map shows the county’s elongated shape extending from north to south. The Kissimmee River helps form its eastern boundary, while Highlands County borders seven other Florida counties and becomes slightly narrower toward its southern end.
Florida County Maps
Florida County Map
Looking for a county map of Florida? Our Florida County Map breaks down all 67 counties across the Sunshine State. Explore Florida through detailed topographic, satellite, and outline maps to better understand its geography, landscapes, and county boundaries.