Alachua County

Alachua County is an administrative district in north-central Florida in the United States. The region covers gently rolling terrain with natural springs, open prairie expanses, and wooded zones crossed by rivers and small lakes.

Indigenous groups inhabited the area for centuries before Spanish settlers established cattle ranches in the late 17th century. The district was formally created in 1824 after Florida came under American control.

The University of Florida in Gainesville shapes the county's educational landscape while contributing to research, arts, and sports activities throughout the region.

Most public facilities and shops are located in the city of Gainesville at the center of the district. County roads and local bus routes connect smaller towns and protected natural areas to the main hub.

In the southern part, around 40 bison graze freely in a large natural preserve that was once a freshwater lake. Wild horses roam the same landscape, forming a rare combination in Florida.

Location: Florida

Inception: December 29, 1824

Capital city: Gainesville

Reference: 12-001

Shares border with: Bradford County, Union County, Putnam County, Marion County, Levy County, Gilchrist County, Columbia County

Website: http://alachuacounty.us

GPS coordinates: 29.68333,-82.36667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:57