Union County, Florida
Union County is located in north-central Florida and is the state’s smallest county by land area. It is landlocked, with Bradford County bordering it to the east. The county has a quiet, rural character, with forests, farmland, and waterways instead of coastal beaches.
Lake Butler serves as the county seat and has a population of about 2,000 people. The New River forms part of the southern boundary, while Olustee Creek lies along the western side. Farming and corrections are important local industries, with Union Correctional Institution providing jobs for many residents.
Despite its small size, Union County has a history dating back to the 1800s. Hunting and fishing are popular activities, while the close-knit communities give the county a friendly, small-town atmosphere where neighbors often know one another.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Union County |
| County Seat | Lake Butler |
| Population | Approximately 15,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Lake Butler, Worthington Springs, Raiford |
| Interstates and Highways | US 301, SR 100 |
| FIPS Code | 12-125 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 247 square miles (land: 240 sq mi, water: 7 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Baker County (North), Alachua County (South), Bradford County (East), Columbia County (West) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Florida |
| Coordinates | 30.0217° N, 82.3481° W |
| Etymology | Named to symbolize the concept of unity in the area |
| Major Landmarks | Lake Butler Historical Museum, New River, Union County Fairgrounds |
