Lake Butler is Union County’s tiny city with big outdoor appeal
Lake Butler is a tiny city spanning just under 2 miles, located in Union County, the smallest county in Florida. Yet, this little community offers homes on big yards and easy access to the sprawling Lake Butler, the site of one of the largest annual fishing tournaments in the country.
Manufactured and ranch homes sit on spacious wooded lots
Homes in Lake Butler are primarily manufactured and ranch-style and sit on spacious lots along quiet residential streets. Front lawns are landscaped with grass and mature trees. More tall trees line backyards. Prices range from $200,000 to $350,000. Land is also available, ranging from $68,000 to $250,000, with higher priced properties backing up to Lake Butler or sitting on multiple acres.
Students attend three B-rated public schools
Union County School District covers the city and has a B rating on Niche. Kids attend Lake Butler Elementary, Lake Butler Middle and Union County High. All three schools have B ratings. In February 2025, the school board approved a plan to keep Tiger’s Den, its district-run daycare, from closing. As of July 2025, the district is still looking for a contractor or private equity to run it.
Fishing in Lake Butler and a splashpad at Lakeside Park
Lake Butler is on the city’s north side and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and swimming. Boaters launch from Lakeside Park, which has a green space, splash pad and picnic pavilion. Hikers and cyclists can pick up the Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail, a path that spans almost 50 miles between the two cities.
Limited shopping and dining with more in Lake City
Residents pick up groceries at Spires IGA Market and essentials at Dollar General and Family Dollar. Services dot Main Street and Southwest 6th Street, the city’s two main thoroughfares. Dining out options include regional pizza and sub chain Hungry Howie’s and locally owned Laredo Mexican Restaurant. More shopping and dining opportunities are about 22 miles away in Lake City. Lake Butler Hospital is on the city’s east side and has primary care and emergency services.
Rotary Club hosts bass tournament and holiday festivities
The Lake Butler Rotary Club hosts the annual Fourth of July event, which includes the popular Tommy Spires Memorial Bass Fishing Tournament at Lake Butler, a 5K fun run, live music and fireworks at dusk.
Main roads connect Lake Butler to Lake City and beyond
Residents get around by car, due to the city’s lack of a fixed route bus line. Main Street and Southwest 6th Street lead out of the city and connect to nearby communities, including Lake City. Gainesville Regional is around 35 miles away and is the closest airport, offering flights to Charlotte, Atlanta and Houston.
Important to know
Reception and Medical Center, a state prison and hospital, is about 4 miles from the city’s center. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures in the 90s. Winter temperatures are usually in the 60s and 70s. While Lake Butler’s location inland typically protects it from hurricane damage, the city can be vulnerable to major storms. In 2024, Hurricane Helene hit the city, causing widespread damage.