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

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Entire home

Come Way Down The Suwannee River & Rest...Where Nature Meets Luxury!

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 82150 sq ft

Popular amenities

Pet-friendly
Parking available
Outdoor space
Barbecue grill
Dryer
Washer

Explore the area

Branford, FL

Suwannee River
‪1 min walk‬
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
‪29 min drive‬
Ginnie Spring
‪48 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed and 1 Double Futon

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 4

Outdoor shower

Down Stairs Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Master

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Upstairs Guest Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Outdoor shower

Kitchen

Kitchenette

Balcony

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining area

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 manager

Steve Cascaddan (Captain Cas)

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Similar properties

Expansive river views from the giant deck.

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

All children under parental guidance.

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Ask Owner as exceptions can be made.

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)

No more than 2 Dogs under 40lbs. / Cleaning $Appl.

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Outside patio area only.

Must be 25 or Older to Reserve.

Parties Over (6) 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.

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 that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Branford

Located in Branford, this holiday 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. Travelling with kids? Consider High Springs Civic Center Park and Veteran's Memorial Park of Mayo. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Branford, FL

What's nearby

Suwannee River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Ichetucknee River - 29 min drive - 30.1 km
Ichetucknee Springs State Park - 29 min drive - 30.4 km
Ginnie Spring - 48 min drive - 45.5 km
Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park - 51 min drive - 46.5 km

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬16 min drive
‪China House 88 - ‬16 min drive
‪Hardee's - ‬15 min drive
‪Our Place Pizzeria & Ristorante - ‬15 min drive
‪Sisters Cafe - ‬16 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 23 kg per pet.

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?

Checkout 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 holiday home is located on the waterfront, just steps away from Suwannee River and Stuarts Landing Conservation Area. J.T. Earl Park and Ivey Memorial Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

5 Jan, 2025

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

10/10 Excellent

Jesse F.

15 Oct, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Stan S.

2 Aug, 2024

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

River Trip

Great fun on the river

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kris S.

18 Jun, 2020

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

10/10 Excellent

George S., Jacksonville, FL

13 May, 2023

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

Great location and property

Renting was easy

Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

michelle s.

19 Mar, 2022

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

10/10 Excellent

karrie d.

13 Aug, 2023

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

River Rest

Love the house and great time kayaking

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Len D.

14 Jun, 2023

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

10/10 Excellent

Roxanne K.

23 Jul, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Katherine B.

15 Nov, 2019

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

10/10 Excellent

Ashley T.

1 Jul, 2021

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

10/10 Excellent

Ron M.

23 Jul, 2021

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

10/10 Excellent

Eric G.

20 May, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Valerie M., Tallahassee

13 Jul, 2023

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

Hidden gem

This property has everything a family could possibly need. Remotely located paradise on the river. Always marked on my calendar every summer.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sherry F.

6 Jun, 2023

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

Beautiful, tranquil, & peaceful!

This property was perfect in every way! The home it’s self was absolutely beautiful, fully stocked with anything, and everything that you could ever need, located right on the Suwanee River, & the property manager was responsive, kind, and helpful! We look forward to staying at the Suwanee river rest again in the future!!

Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura L., Lake City, FL

26 Mar, 2021

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

Relaxation and Rest

We had a relaxing time at Suwannee River Rest. The property is so quiet and peaceful. We had everything we needed and more- Comfy beds, cozy furnishings, peaceful river. Perfect place to relax and recharge.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

14 Sept, 2020

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

Wonderful getaway

Thank you Captain for such a great place to stay. We really enjoyed the river. Your parents were super. Your home is beautiful and had everything we needed. 5 stars.

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Micaela A.

13 Oct, 2020

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

Relaxing, beautiful, comfortable and peaceful

Excellent property, very clean and safety place. Relaxing and beautiful view of the river. Bob (Cap Cas father) was number 1 host! Thank you!

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jayme T., Fruitland Park

23 Mar, 2020

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

Week spring break

What a great place!!! Stocked with anything that you need. Very helpful!! Thank you for allowing us to enjoy your place!!!

Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

David G., Oldsmar

23 Feb, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Elaine S.

24 Sept, 2023

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

10/10 Excellent

Bill H., Winter Springs, Fl. USA

12 Nov, 2019

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

Relaxing on the beautiful Suwannee

Beautiful property! Just be ready to climb stairs and also a bit of a steep ramp down to the dock. A little slippery when wet! This is a beautiful home and has everything you need to feel at home and is very warm and comfortable feeling. The kitchen is amazing and the tv and wifi seem to work well. My grandson and I truly enjoyed it and wish we could've stayed longer. Best, Bill Harrison

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Tammy C.

13 May, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Alexander P.

23 Mar, 2024

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

10/10 Excellent

Tessie C.

2 Jul, 2024

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

About the host

Hosted by Steve Cascaddan (Captain Cas)

Capt. Cas has been a part of the Suwannee River since 1966, first brought here by his grandparents when they purchased property along its banks. This marked the beginning of his lifelong love for the outdoors and its abundant natural beauty.

From an early age, Capt. Cas honed his fishing and hunting skills, developing into the seasoned outdoor sportsman he is today. Always striving to improve, he also shares the rich history of the Suwannee River and is eager to guide others, whether they’re experienced sportsmen or newcomers seeking knowledge.

A Coast Guard Certified Captain with an OUPV 100 Ton Certification, Capt. Cas is passionate about the river and its ecosystem. He is a proud member of American Bass Angler and Captains for Clean Water and owns several ventures, including Captain Guide Gear, Killer Guide Gear, Suwannee River Rest LLC, and Hatch Bend Hideaway RV/Trailer Place.

Why they chose this property

The Suwannee River Rest is a cherished family property that has been growing since 1966. My grandparents first brought me here to purchase our first piece of land along the beautiful Suwannee River. Over the years, my parents retired here and expanded the property.

I, Capt. Cas, have hunted, fished, and bay scalloped (on the Gulf Coast) throughout my life, and with each experience, my love for the Suwannee River grew. It inspired me to create a space where others could enjoy the river in luxury.

Come see for yourself... and fall in love with the Suwannee River!

Capt. Cas

What makes this property unique

Down the Suwannee to the Gulf of Mexico

A boat trip from Suwannee River Rest (SRR) down the river towards the Gulf of Mexico is an unforgettable journey through peaceful, mostly undeveloped land. Whether you’re looking for a serene day cruise or an adventurous overnight trip, the experience is yours to tailor.

The length of the trip depends on how long you want to explore the river’s many hidden gems. Stop along the way to swim, explore, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the surroundings. A full-day trip could take you to Manatee Springs and back, while an overnight excursion might bring you all the way to the Town of Suwannee, where the Suwannee meets the Gulf.

Or, simply spend the day visiting nearby natural springs that feed the river—perfect for a relaxing swim in crystal-clear waters.

Contact Capt. Cas for Details and Bookings:
📞 Phone: 407-468-1019
✉️ Email: captcassuwanneeriverrest@gmail.com

Let Capt. Cas help you plan your perfect Suwannee River adventure!