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Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida

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A wooden deck leading to a grassy area with a view of a lake and trees. - Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida (Branford)
Exterior - Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida (Branford)
A modern building with a glass facade, wooden stairs, and outdoor seating. - Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida (Branford)
Interior - Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida (Branford)
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, books - Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida (Branford)
At Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida, you can look forward to a firepit, a garden, and a playground. Active travelers can enjoy kayaking, bicycling, and boating at this vacation home. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi, with speed of 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices), and guests can find other amenities such as an arcade/game room and laundry facilities.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8200 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Add dates for prices

About this property

Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida

  • Discover the Suwannee River Rest Lodge

    Come experience the serenity of North Florida at the Suwannee River Rest, a spacious two-story, three-bedroom, three-bath lodge located on the banks of the historic Suwannee River near Branford, Florida. Perfect for a peaceful weekend or a relaxing week-long vacation, this lodge offers a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and nature.

    Luxury Meets Nature
    Nestled in the historic Hatch Bend area of Lafayette County, this well-appointed lodge is designed to be your home away from home. The upstairs features:

    One bedroom features an en-suite bathroom, while the other has a bathroom conveniently located just across the hall.
    A spacious living area with a cozy gas fireplace
    A fully modernized kitchen for effortless meal preparation

    The downstairs boasts:

    A private king-size bedroom with a full bath
    A comfortable living area and kitchenette
    An enclosed elevator for convenient access to the second level for all your gear

    Relax and Reconnect

    Enjoy serene views from the screened-in porch upstairs or soak up the outdoors on the open-air patio below. A sidewalk leads to a riverside deck with a secure ramp, providing access to a 24-foot aluminum floating dock—perfect for launching boats, canoes, or kayaks. Additional conveniences include a two-car under-house parking area.

    Adventure Awaits on the Suwannee River!
    Bring your kayaks, canoes, boats, fishing gear, or snorkeling equipment and explore the Suwannee River’s beauty. Located near iconic waterways like the Santa Fe River, Ichetucknee Springs, Little River Springs, and Troy Springs, this area is a haven for water enthusiasts. For land-based explorers, there are exceptional hiking and cycling trails nearby, and Keaton Beach, Steinhatchee, and Horseshoe Beach are just over an hour away on the Gulf of Mexico.

    Guided River Experiences with Capt Cas

    Owner Steven O. Cascaddan (Captain Cas), a Coast Guard Certified Captain, offers guided adventures, including:

    Suwannee River sightseeing tours
    Spring exploration trips
    Fishing charters (fresh and saltwater)
    Bay scalloping (seasonal in Steinhatchee)

    The Captain's vessel is a 20’ Hurricane Fun Boat (up to 6 passengers) and a 17.5’ PT Tracker fishing vessel (up to 2 passengers), both fully insured and Coast Guard certified.

    For an unforgettable river tour experience, contact Captain Cas directly at 407-468-1019.

    Come Explore the Last Wild Florida Frontier!

    This unique retreat on the Suwannee River is located just:

    30 miles south of Live Oak
    30 miles southwest of Lake City
    30 miles west of High Springs
    55 miles northwest of Gainesville
    8 miles from Branford

    Plan your next getaway to the Suwannee River Rest Lodge and create memories in Florida’s Last Wild Frontier.

    Book your adventure today before it’s too late!

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Limited onsite parking (max 2 spaces)
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Kitchenette
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Outdoor shower
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: Outside patio area only.

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Bicycles
  • Boat
  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Canoeing nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Spelunking nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Bicycles
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 2,150 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Must be 25 or Older to Reserve.
Parties Over (8) will be charged an additional cleaning fee of $75.
No More Than (2) Dogs under 40lbs. Large dogs are required to use the downstairs Suite.

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs and cats only
2 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: No more than 2 Dogs under 40lbs. / Cleaning $Appl.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: All children under parental guidance.

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Ask Owner as exceptions can be made.

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Outside patio area only.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 20
Note from host: Ask Owner as exceptions can be made.
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the neighborhood

Located in Branford, this vacation home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. High Springs Museum and High Springs Community Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Bob's River Place and Hart Springs Park. Traveling with kids? Consider High Springs Civic Center Park and Veteran's Memorial Park of Mayo. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cave exploring. Visit our Branford travel guide
View more Vacation Homes in Branford
Map
Branford, FL

What's nearby

  • A calm river surrounded by trees reflecting in the water.
    Suwannee River
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • A wooden boardwalk leading to a dock over a calm river surrounded by dense forest.
    Ichetucknee Springs State Park
    24 min drive - 36.7 km
  • An underwater scene with rocky formations and clear water.
    Ginnie Spring
    50 min drive - 57.1 km
  • Stuarts Landing Conservation Area
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Troy Spring State Park
    18 min drive - 26.9 km

Restaurants

  • McDonald's
    16 min drive
  • Hardee's
    15 min drive
  • Subway
    16 min drive
  • Farm Stand
    21 min drive
  • Our Place Pizzeria​ And Ristorante
    15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida located?

This family-friendly Branford vacation home is located on the waterfront, just steps from Suwannee River and Stuarts Landing Conservation Area. J.T. Earl Park and Ivey Memorial Park are also within 12 mi (20 km).

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Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 71 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

joyce n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host very helpful Very nice kitchen well stockedBeautiful river
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful home!! We loved staying at this property! Excellent communication with the host - very prompt with replies. My 3 boys loved the house and it provided plenty of room for them to spread out. We cannot say enough about the amount of amenities that are supplied! The kitchen has everything you need and there are kayaks, a grill, and fishing supplies. The entertainment "center" under the covered carport has so many options! We would love to stay here again. Very clean as well and the best part is we were able to bring our dog! Thank you!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrian T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Property

Just another great weekend at the SRR, House and grounds was perfect, functional and clean. Perfect spot on the river!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun and relaxing stay!

We had a wonderful weekend at this peaceful property. Brought our boat for some fun on the water and enjoyed making s’mores and memories around a fire. Lovely place for a group with lots of space to play!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jesse F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Guys’ Weekend

Beautiful, clean house with a fantastic view of the river
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just what we needed.

It was perfect for us. Peaceful and beautiful to be on the river. Next time we'll take a boat ride. I'm trying to get the girls to go to the springs next time. Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and Relaxing

One Of the Best Vacations Ever! The pictures do not do justice to the beauty of the House. The house was well stocked and clean! The Owner was Great and so accommodating! Very Peaceful Place and just steps away from the River. Our Family and Friends Loved It!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Riverview

The cabin was great, the weather wasn't. Unfortunately we had rain the whole time we were there si we didn't really get to enjoy the area, but the house was great. Beds were comfy and the view of the river was fantastic. We'll return maybe in the spring or fall.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elaine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace and quiet

We were amazed at how quiet it was. Also shocked at how well both places were stocked. From kitchen ware, gadgets, games, spices, towels, blankets. The list goes on. Everything needed in case you forgot something. House was extremely clean and super comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tammy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

Loved the house. Plenty of room, comfy beds and very clean. My daughter and family stayed downstairs. It was a little warmer than they liked but found a fan that helped a lot. River was up but all good. It has a floating deck that was large enough for the pontoon boat. We enjoyed just riding the river n site seeing. Everything was great. Only recommendation I would have is to leave one cabinet empty for groceries. It’s just my personal preference. I’m a little OCD and this house was perfect for me. ❤️
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexander P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just Lovely

There were six of us (three couples; one with an infant). We all had plenty of space, as much or little activity as we wanted and beautiful surroundings. This place is so well-maintained and your every need has been anticipated. There was plenty of everything - from towels to spices. The cookware was just as good as my cookware at home, which is not the case for many VRBO's! We all had a wonderful time. Captain Cas took us all on an affordable and perfect boat ride up the Suwannee. We were able to get out and snorkel a little. He was extremely accommodating to us with the baby aboard yet was cautious and careful. This was totally worth the price! We hope to stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tessie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

FABULOUS!!!!!!

This rental is fabulous! I cannot say enough about this one. First, the host is so friendly and inviting. You will feel like you have known him for years! Second, the house is big, beautiful, fully equipped with ANYTHING you need, and very clean. Our family of seven plus a dog fit perfectly. Lastly, the outside has a screened deck with very comfortable furniture and a sitting area on the carport with a table, chairs, a swing, a dartboard, AND enough yard space for dogs. There is a deck overlooking the river and a floating dock for boats. The floating dock fit our pontoon like a glove. This place is perfect! If we weren't cooking in the large kitchen or on the boat, we would hang out on the carport while it rained, and we loved every minute of it!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrian T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another great Stay at the SRR. We wish the propane grill was larger. But we are a large group. Great kitchen with all the right gear.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bob E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our 4th stay at the SRR and it has been excellent! We were greeted by the host Capt Cas and he showed us around. The place is right on the river and the kitchen has everything you need. Fun games! Nice gas fireplace and firepit outside! Going back again
80th Bday
Nice firepit
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tessie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous!

Our stay was great! It has everything you need.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kris S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place with beautiful scenery and amenities

Everything went very smoothly and the property was very clean and well stocked.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

George S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location and property

Renting was easy
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

michelle s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Spring Break

The house is super cute and very accommodating. We loved being on the water and close to several springs and outdoor adventures.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Len D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Suwannee River House

Wonderful house and location. Stay couldn’t have been better
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karrie d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

River Rest

Love the house and great time kayaking
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place! Beautiful views and vibe. 10/10 would recommend.

It was the perfect getaway for my and my family. It was clean and had everything we needed to have the best experience. Super quiet and beautiful. 10/10 would recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Place

We enjoyed the house as it rained the whole time we was on-site. It was nice to have a great house to enjoy while we couldn’t enjoy the river. Will definitely be back for another stay!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Suwannee River Rest

Beautiful home fully stocked with everything you could ever need.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

River Trip

Great fun on the river
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Vacation

House is clean, roomy and makes you feel right at home. Love the closeness to the river and springs. This is our 2nd stay at this property and will be returning again. Also, love the screened in porch and the view. My grandson and his friend enjoyed playing darts and fishing from the boat dock. NICE, relaxing vacation home.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025