Unincorporated communities in Middle Tennessee are often described as quiet stretches of countryside with lots of winding roads, rolling farmland, and historic homesteads. While that image holds true for some places, many of these areas are a lot more than a “wide spot in the road.” Across Maury County, you’ll find well-known areas with deep historic roots and thriving residential communities with lakes, parks, schools, and local festivals—all outside any official city limits. Governed by the county rather than a city administration, each community maintains its own distinct character, shaped by generations of local heritage.
Culleoka, located southeast of Columbia, is home to more than 5,000 residents. Its name comes from the Choctaw words “Culle” (good or sweet) and “Oka” (water), which is why many locals still call the area “Sweetwater.” One of the best ways to plug into the community is by visiting the Culleoka Farmer’s Market at 2410 Valley Creek Rd., open the third Saturday monthly from 9 am to 12 pm, April through November.
Hampshire has a 6.9-acre community park known as Hampshire Park. Families can enjoy the park’s pavilion, baseball field, basketball court, playground, and running/walking track. The space is shared with the neighboring Hampshire Unit School of Applied Science and Natural Resources, creating a true community hub. Favorite local festivals include the Blueberry Bash in June and the October Fall Festival at Highland Realm Farm with local craft vendors, food trucks, horseback riding, and hayrides. Locals can purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables at the Hampshire Farmer’s Market at 4443 Hampshire Pike, April through September on Tuesdays from 3–6 pm.
Santa Fe (pronounced Fēē, with a long ē sound) lies northwest of Columbia and is home to about 1,800 residents. The area has several family farms and is anchored by the Santa Fe Unit School, which serves roughly 600 students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Williamsport sits just west of Santa Fe off Highway 50 and has around 1,700 residents. The community is known for four scenic fishing lakes totaling 164 acres, along with surrounding rural hunting areas. The lakes are for paddle and small motor boats only. Bank fishing for kids aged 16 and younger is best at the 25-acre Whippoorwill Lake. Blue Cat Lake is 80 acres, Goldeneye Lake is 13 acres, and Shellcracker Lake is 46 acres. Anyone with a fishing license can fish these lakes. Managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), Williamsport Lakes is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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