| Walton County consists of Freeport, Paxton, and De Funiak Springs as the county seat. In 2005, the population was 50,324. It is home to the highest point in the state, Britton Hill at 345 feet. Walton County was created in 1824 and named for George Walton, Secretary of the Florida Territory from 1821 to 1826. The county's total area is 1,238 square miles including 180 square miles of water. Walton County has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with 16 certified Blue Wave Beaches. The county has extensive timberlands and agricultural areas north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. In January, the average temperature is 53 degrees and in July, it is about 81 degrees. The county also boasts Florida's highest point at 345 feet above sea level. |