Clinch County, the 94th county formed in Georgia, was created from portions of Ware and Lowndes counties in 1850. The county was named for General Duncan Clinch, who served in the War of 1812, defeated the Seminole Indian Chief Osceola in Florida, and later served in the U.S. Congress.

Part of the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge lies in Clinch County. Both the St. Mary’s and Suwannee Rivers rise within the swamp. World famous Stephen C. Foster State Park is located in Fargo. The park’s boat tours are a twisting and turning adventure through the Okefenokee Swamp.