Chipley, FL – A Small Town of Old Florida

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Written By Emma Parker

Chipley, FL, is a small town in the Florida Panhandle steeped in history. It’s been around since the late 1800s and has a rich culture you can’t find anywhere else. Chipley is the place to be if you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience.

There are plenty of tourist attractions, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants to keep you busy while you’re there.

Chipley, Florida Featured Image

So if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, head down to Chipley – you won’t regret it.

Chipley, Florida

Chipley is a city in Washington County, Florida, United States. The population was 3,605 at the 2010 census.

Chipley Florida
Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It is the county seat of Washington County.

The area was first settled in the 1830s by pioneers from Georgia and Alabama. The city was named for its founder, William Henry Chipley, and was incorporated in 1882.

It is located in the Florida Panhandle near the Alabama border. It is about 60 miles (97 km) northwest of Panama City and 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Dothan, Alabama.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.0 square miles (13.0 km2), all land.

History of Chipley, Florida

Chipley is a city located in Washington County, Florida. The city was named after its founder, William Dudley Chipley. It has a long and rich history dating back to the early 19th century.

Europeans first settled the area that is now Chipley in the early 1800s. The abundance of timber and game attracted the first settlers to the area. The settlers established sawmills and farms in the area.

In 1818, the United States annexed West Florida from Spain. This increased settlement in the area. In 1821, the town of Orange was established near present-day Chipley. Orange was the first county seat of Washington County.

In 1824, the county seat was moved to Chipley. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1915.

The timber industry has always been an essential part of Chipley’s economy.

During the 1900s, the city was known as the “Cedar City” because of the large cedar trees in the area. The timber industry began to decline in the mid-1900s.

Today, It is a thriving community with a diverse economy. The city is home to several businesses and industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. Moreover, it is also a popular tourist destination.

13 Best Things to do in Chipley, FL

Boat Lake Swimming Park

Boat Lake Swimming Park is a hidden gem in Chipley, FL. This local spot is perfect for a summer day or a weekend getaway.

The park offers a sandy beach, picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds. There is also a boat launch for those who want to explore the lake.

The clean and clear water makes it perfect for swimming, fishing, or just floating around. You can also bring your kayaks or canoes to paddle around the lake.

No wonder it is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months. The park is located at 1780 Boat Lake Road in Chipley, Florida.

Orange Hill Gator Farm

If you’re looking for an up-close and personal experience with some of Florida’s most iconic animals, look no further than Orange Hill Gator Farm. Situated in Chipley, this working farm is home to various reptiles, including alligators, crocodiles, and snakes.

You can participate in several activities, such as feeding the alligators, taking a tour of the farm, or even holding a baby alligator.

There’s also a gift shop on site, selling souvenirs and local produce.

Whether you’re a Florida native or just visiting for the first time, it does not matter. A trip to Orange Hill Gator Farm will be a memorable experience.

Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park is a state park located in the Florida Panhandle, just north of the town of Chipley. The park features a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, picnicking, and canoeing.

Florida Caverns in Florida State Park
Tim Ross, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The park’s highlight is the Florida Caverns, open to the public for tours.

The Florida Caverns are the state’s only publicly accessible air-filled caves. The caves are formed by limestone that has been slowly eroded over time by rainwater.

The caves are at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit and are home to various bats and other animals.

The park also features several hiking trails, picnicking areas, and a campground. The camping sites have water, electricity hookups, and a dump station for RVs.

Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad

Pensacola and its sister city, Chipley, have a lot to offer tourists. From the beautiful sandy beaches to the historic downtown area, there is something for everyone in Pensacola.

It is one of the many things that make Pensacola a great place to visit.

The Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad is a historic railroad that runs through Pensacola. The railroad was built in the late 1800s and was used to transport goods and people between Pensacola and other parts of Florida.

Today, It is a popular tourist attraction. You can ride the train through the city or tour the historic railroad stations.

Falling Waters State Park

Falling Waters State Park is a state park located in Chipley, Florida. The park is named after the 71-foot (22 m) tall waterfall, the tallest in the state. The waterfall is fed by a natural spring and drops into a giant sinkhole.

Falling Waters State Park
Balon Greyjoy, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The park also has hiking trails, a picnic area, a playground, and a campground.

It is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors. And there is no doubt why the 71-foot waterfall is the main attraction of this place.

Main Street Market

Main Street Market is a small town market located in Chipley. The market sells various items such as local produce, meats, cheeses, and spices.

There is also a coffee shop and a bakery on site. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm.

The market is located in the heart of downtown Chipley and is within walking distance of several restaurants, cafes, and shops. There is plenty of street parking available.

It is a great place to buy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and spices. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is excellent. (Also, one of the famous tourist attractions)

T&B Hidden Treasures

If you’re ever in Chipley, Florida, check out T&B Hidden Treasures. This hidden gem is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

The shop is owned and operated by a local family passionate about providing quality products and excellent customer service. You’ll find various items, including jewelry, home decor, and even gourmet food items.

Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone or want to find a unique souvenir for yourself, T&B Hidden Treasures is sure to have something that catches your eye.

Washington County Historical Society

Washington County Historical Society was established in 1957 and is dedicated to preserving the history of Washington County.

Washington County Historical Society
Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum houses a collection of artifacts that date back to the county’s early days. You can learn about the county’s Native American heritage, role in the Civil War, and agricultural history.

The museum also has a research library that contains a wealth of information about the county’s past.

There is no doubt or question that this place is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of Washington County.

Horseback Riding at Sunshine Riding Trails

Sunshine Riding Trails is a great place to enjoy horse riding in Chipley, Florida. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Horse riding is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside and get some exercise at the same time.

The cost of horseback riding at Sunshine Riding Trails is very reasonable. The trail fee is just $5 per person, and there is no charge for parking. Horse rentals are available for an additional fee.

The trails are open every day from sunrise to sunset. The best time to ride is early or late evening when the temperatures are cooler.

Seacrest Wolf Preserve

Seacrest Wolf Preserve is one of the largest wolf sanctuaries in the United States. It is located in Chipley, Florida, and is home to over 150 wolves. The preserve offers tours where you can see the wolves up close and learn about their behavior and ecology.

The tours are conducted by experienced guides passionate about wolves and their conservation.

The preserve is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and a tour costs $25 per person. You can also camp overnight at the preserve for an additional cost.

No wonder it is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for these majestic creatures.

Camping at White Oak Landing

White Oak Landing is the perfect spot for you if you’re looking for a place to camp close to the beach but still has all the amenities of home. This family-friendly campground offers an RV, tent camping sites, and cabins for rent.

Plenty of activities keep everyone entertained, including a swimming pool, playground, and game room.

The RV and tent sites at White Oak Landing are all full hookup, so you’ll have water, electricity, and sewer access.

The rates for these sites start at $45 per night.

No matter what time you visit, you will have a wonderful experience at this place.

Shop at Farmers Markets

Farmers’ markets are a great way to get fresh, local produce and support your community. It is open every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm.

This market has a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to honey and baked goods. You can also find locally made crafts and artisanal products.

Farmers’ markets are a great way to eat seasonally and support local farmers and businesses.

Moreover, this market is the perfect place to find unique gifts for friends and family.

Spanish Trail Playhouse

Spanish Trail Playhouse is a community theater located in Chipley, Florida. It was founded in 1974 and is dedicated to providing quality live entertainment for the residents of Northwest Florida.

The theater offers a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year, as well as special events such as concerts and comedy nights.

It is also home to the Panhandle Opera Company, which presents two fully-staged operas each year.

The theater is located at 544 8th Street in Chipley, and performances are held in the adjoining auditorium. The theater is open to the public from Tuesday through Saturday, with shows typically running from Thursday through Saturday evenings.

Weather in Chipley, Florida: Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chipley, Florida, is between October and May. The weather is cooler during these months, making it more comfortable to spend time outdoors.

However, the humidity can be high this year, so you should be prepared for some muggy days.

June through September are the hottest and most humid months in Chipley, so tourists should plan accordingly if they want to avoid the heat.

What county is Chipley, Florida in

Chipley is the county seat of Washington County, Florida. The city is home to a population of just over 12,000 people. The county itself has a total population of around 24,000 people. Chipley is located in the northwestern panhandle region of Florida and is part of the Fort Walton Beach–Crestview–Destin metropolitan statistical area.

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Finally!

So, we come to an end. There is no wonder to know why Chipley is the best tourist destination to visit in Florida. We even have added the other places guide and one on spring break destinations before, but this one sounds more amazing as it comes under the oldest town in Florida.

We have added this guide to help our readers plan a trip to Chipley, FL. Let us know in the comments if you have been to any of these places.

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