Discover Why Clay County Is A Favorite Among Florida Families

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As a popular vacation paradise, Florida drew in more than 140 million visitors in 2024 thanks to its world-famous theme parks, pristine coastline, year-round sunshine, and one-of-a-kind national parks and preserves. From Miami's vibrant nightlife scene to Orlando's most magical attractions to Tampa's picture-perfect beaches, the Sunshine State has a little something for every kind of traveler. And even though most tourists tend to gravitate toward the state's more well-known destinations, there are still plenty of hidden gems and local treasures waiting to be discovered just off the beaten path.

One of these underrated spots is Clay County. Located just southwest from Jacksonville, this often-overlooked destination sits quietly along Florida's northeastern corridor and offers traveling families a different kind of vacation experience — one that's refreshingly removed from all of the traditional tourist hotspots. As for what makes it so loved by locals and tourists alike, Clay County is brimming with character and charm thanks to the seven communities and neighborhoods — Fleming Island, Keystone Heights, Green Cove Springs, Middleburg, Oakleaf, Orange Park, and Penney Farms — that contribute their own unique touches to the area.

That said, in between quiet streets and bustling town centers, what truly sets Clay County apart is its perfect blend of small-town hospitality, outdoor adventures, and popular budget-friendly activities that won't break the bank. Home to numerous lakes, state parks, and nature preserves, the area provides endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and water sports. Meanwhile, the county's historic downtown districts offer shopping and dining experiences — all without the crowds that you'd typically find in larger cities. So, whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or planning a longer family vacation to a new destination, there's really no place like Clay County to soak up an authentic Florida experience.

From paddleboarding spots and historic museums to thrilling race tracks and local festivals, Clay County is a hub for entertainment, relaxation, and adventure for all ages. In terms of activities to enjoy, the county's local theater scene is especially lively, with venues like the Spotlight Center and Thrasher-Horne Center putting on shows all year long. Featuring a diverse programming that ranges from kids' productions to musical dinner shows, it's the perfect affordable option for a family night out.

Meanwhile, if your crew loves history, a stop by the Military Museum of North Florida or wandering through the Old Clay County Jail are must-visits for learning about the area's past. As for travelers hoping to unleash their more artistic side, The Dirty Palette, Creative Craft Lounge, and Crafting at the Nest all offer hands-on workshops perfect for creative bonding time. Alternatively, if you're craving a little more active fun, head over to Live by the Axe to channel your inner Viking, or lace up and head to Orange Park's Skate Station, home to Northeast Florida's largest wooden indoor skating rink.

Ultimately, the best part about traveling to Clay County is the county's jam-packed events calendar, which keeps things interesting no matter when you decide to visit. So, while spring means blueberry picking season and the Clay County Fair, the summer months are packed with outdoor markets and festivals almost every weekend. Come fall, you and your family can attend art fairs (like the Orange Park Fall Festival, which started in 1982), nature walks, and enjoy live music. Finally, "Christmas in Clay" makes the winter holidays magical with everything from themed theater productions to parades, craft fairs, and other community celebrations.

A welcome change of pace, Clay County's outdoor scene goes beyond your average Florida vacation. With 35 miles of trails and 39 square miles of waterways to explore, you and your family will find plenty of opportunities to reconnect with nature. For one, the St. Johns River (the longest in Florida) flows right through the county. Connected to tributaries like Black Creek and Smith Lake Preserve, these waterways create the perfect playground for pretty much every outdoor adventure.

Activity-wise, families can take their pick from tons of water-based fun. Specifically, you can try the self-service paddleboard rentals at Camp Chowenwaw (check out their famous treehouse, too!), book a group fishing excursion with Southern Cove Charters that'll make for some serious catches, or even rent your own pontoon and explore hidden spots at your own pace. As for swimming, your kids will love tubing on Lake Geneva at Keystone Beach, paddling at Gold Head Branch State Park, or splashing around in Green Cove Springs' spring-fed pool, which stays at a comfortable 77 degrees all year long. 

Alternatively, for visitors who'd rather stay on dry land, Jennings State Forest in Middleburg serves up some serious hiking opportunities with its 11.6-mile Pioneer Trail. On it, you'll tackle elevation changes ranging from 10 to 100 feet, discover hidden waterfalls, and even spot wildlife like deer, turkey, and bobcats along the way. Beyond that, the forest's 25,000 acres also offer mountain biking and horseback riding trails, as well as primitive camping at spots for visitors hoping to extend their adventure overnight.

When it comes to sampling local flavors and enjoying unique shopping experiences, you'll be happy to learn that Clay County is ready to deliver on both fronts — starting with Walnut Street in Green Cove Springs. The newly reimagined and renovated street is the county's most popular shopping and dining destination. To really soak up the atmosphere, kick off your visit at 5th & Paisley for trendy women's and children's clothing. From there, channel your inner rock star while you browse for vinyl records and signed memorabilia at The Guitar Station, or dig through vintage comics at Cowabunga Comics. Once you've worked up an appetite, wrap it up with a visit to Red's Wine Bar — the perfect spot for trivia nights and live weekend music!

In addition to that, food lovers will find no shortage of delicious dining options throughout Clay County. For authentic barbecue, Johnny's BBQ has been whipping up brisket, ribs, and pulled pork in Keystone Heights since 1988. Meanwhile, Grumpy's Restaurant serves Southern diner classics like waffles and homemade soups at multiple locations. As for pizza lovers, don't miss Emangeo's Brick Oven Pizza, where the famous dill pickle pizza and spicy pepper jack steak have earned the spot a devoted following.

That said, no Clay County dining experience would be complete without a bite at the legendary Whitey's Fish Camp (pictured above). A waterfront institution serving up fresh seafood since 1963, you'll find everything from fried catfish to stuffed flounder, and even alligator nuggets on the menu. Plus, with its full-service marina, RV park, and all-you-can-eat daily specials, Whitey's perfectly encapsulates the laid-back Florida lifestyle that makes Clay County so special.

Choosing the perfect time for your Clay County visit depends on the experience you're after. For starters, summertime temperatures typically hover in the mid-80s, making it ideal for water activities. Meanwhile, spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) are perfect seasons for hiking with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, but without the infamous Florida humidity. Lastly, winters in Clay County are generally mild, although occasional cold fronts can drop nighttime temperatures.

Once you've settled on your dates, it's time to start planning your itinerary. To make the most of your trip, make sure to download the official Explore Clay mobile app before you arrive. Similar to having a local guide in your pocket, the app features useful information about upcoming events, helps you find activities, and lets you create custom itineraries. Better yet, you can even access a collection of self-guided tours to learn more about the area on your own. Available for both iOS and Android, it's the best way to plan your perfect Clay County getaway.

Boasting the perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local charm — all without the crowds and high prices of Florida's major tourist destinations — it's clear to see why Clay County is so loved by Florida families. Plus, with plenty of welcoming locals who treat visitors like neighbors, a trip to Clay County means you'll get to uncover a whole new side of Florida that feels both familiar and refreshingly different at the same time. Already planning a trip for you and your family? Go ahead and take your pick from some of the most popular family-friendly things to do in Clay County, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.