Entire home

Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow

Photo gallery for Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow

Property grounds
Exterior
Property grounds
Under the moon and stars.
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 4204.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Dunnellon, FL
  • Rainbow Springs State Park
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • K.P. Hole County Park
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Rainbow River
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Ocala, FL (OCF-Ocala Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

1/2 bath

Toilet

Bathroom 2

Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Garden

About this property

Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow

The home sits on the historic, 141 mile long Withlacoochee River that runs along some of Florida's most breathtaking scenery that can be traveled by boat, kayak or personal watercraft and is only minutes away from the incredible spring fed waters of the Rainbow River. The area is also surrounded by incredible trail systems/state forests for nature lovers and hikers alike with the paved, 46 mile long Withlacoochee State Trail for biking enthusiasts only minutes away.

What we love most about our river retreat is that it is our escape from the hustle and bustle of modern suburban life yet is only minutes away from the many conveniences we need and enjoy. We enjoy relaxing and watching the nature around us while still being close to grocery, restaurants and towns like Dunnellon and Crystal River/Ocean nearby.

It is also easy to get to, approximately 1.5 hours from the Orlando area, 30 minutes from Ocala, 30 minutes from Crystal River/Ocean and 45 minutes from Gainesville. The drive is a quick 20 minutes off of I-75 as your route will take you along a couple country roads until you hit the area where roads like Tall Pines Trail, Big Bass Trail and Wise Owl Point welcome you to the simple life of Florida.

For Kayakers, boaters (fishermen) and personal watercraft enthusiasts, enjoy your own private launch for easy in and out of the water on property.

By day we enjoy the beauty of the river. We float it, we fish it or we simply watch the river run by and in doing so we always seem to take in some of the best nature viewing in all of Florida. From otters, to bass, to hawks, eagles, deer, turkey and of course the occasional gator, we always feel refreshed as we take in all of the serenity that nature has to offer. If you haven’t experienced the float down the Rainbow River put that on your list of things to do. Enjoy lunch and drinks at Swampy’s when done with your float.

As night falls, relax and fire up the grill and enjoy the fire pit while enjoying the stories of the day with family and friends. Listen closely and you'll hear the sounds of nature's symphony as you sit back and get lost in the peace and tranquility that will await and surround you.

When ready to call it an evening, retire to a very comfortable home with large and cozy bedrooms, all fitted with smart TV’s with modern and updated finishes to include a floor to ceiling mantle/fireplace in the main living room, a pool table/dining room table combo and anything else needed to have a very comfortable stay in our River Home.

Don’t forget to check out ole’ Stumpnockers and Swampy’s for drinks and lunch/dinner and Red’s for breakfast.

Enjoy!

Property manager

Justin Cali

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed, service animals permitted
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
It is a quiet, peaceful place and so we ask that you respect the solitude. Have fun but please be respectful and adhere to quiet times after 10:00PM.
In the summer, the A/C will only cool the home so fast. Please don’t turn below 72 so unit runs continuously. This is monitored by nest. $500 fine
This is not a place to party. If that’s your intention please move on to another listing. If you smoke in the house or do not tidy up after $500 fine.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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

Dunnellon

Located in Dunnellon, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. El Diablo Golf & Country Club and Citrus Springs Golf & Country Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Rainbow Springs State Park and Johnson Pond Trailhead. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
Map
Dunnellon, FL

What's nearby

  • Johnson Pond Trailhead - 6 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Rainbow Springs State Park - 17 min drive - 14.0 km
  • K.P. Hole County Park - 20 min drive - 16.4 km
  • Rainbow River - 22 min drive - 17.7 km
  • Juliette Falls Golf - 24 min drive - 21.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Swampy's - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Front Porch Restaurant & Pie - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

What time is check-in at Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Withlachoochee River Retreat - minutes from the Rainbow located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 2.5 mi (3.9 km) from Johnson Pond Trailhead and within 6 miles (10 km) of El Diablo Golf & Country Club and Citrus Springs Golf & Country Club. Aquatic Wilderness Adventures and Lake Rousseau are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Misti F.

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

Stunning and serene

This was a beautiful home and located in a perfect location directly on the river. The home is stunning inside and extremely roomy . The bed was so comfortable…. And I am really picky… so it was the best night sleep I have gotten in years. The home has so much to offer for activities water and inside to keep a family busy. The beautiful covered back porch was so relaxing and comfortable that morning coffee was enjoyed wrapped up in a blanket while listening to all the nature around. So many words to describe this home stunning relaxing serene solitude clean … I could list more. Definitely will be back again and hopefully sometime soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisha K.

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

Family birthday

This was the perfect spot to spend our sons birthday. He caught a brim while fishing and really enjoyed the kayaks.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

David B.

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

This riverside rental offers one a beautiful river view.

This riverside rental offers one a beautiful river view. We found the property to be a quiet place to relax, enjoy a fire in the evening and close to many hiking trails. The house was clean. When we arrived the main door with the access code did not work but the owner responded quickly and we were able to use the garage door as our access during our stay. Beds were comfortable, linens and towels good. If you like to cook on vaca - the pots and pans are worn teflon, no measuring spoons, there is a selection of spices and other smalls to start your visit. No dining room or a place to gather for dinner, consider this if you have people in all three bedrooms. There is a table in the kitchen that seats 4. There is a large screened porch with a river view.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin D.

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

Quick dive trip

Justin was a great communicator. The home has been updated nicely and the beds were comfortable. The easy access to the water and kayaks were awesome.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

kelley f.

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

Great house and accommodations.

Relaxing and close to Rainbow River. Loved Stumpknockers!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandi S.

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

Cozy and comfortable on the river

We stayed here for the weekend to do a mini Christmas with family and it was a beautiful home with lots of comfortable furniture and a well stocked kitchen that had a lot of cookware and counter space. The table only seats 4 people but there is a bar table by the pool table as well. Grocery delivery was easy with Walmart and Instacart and we didn’t need to adjust the thermostat at all because it was a good temperature inside even though it was in the 30s and 40s overnight.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Betty B.

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

We had a great time.

My family and I had a great stay, all of the beds were comfortable. We enjoyed the back porch and using the kayak. It’s a very quiet, the house was very nice. We would stay again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Great host

Host was very attentive and responds quickly. The home was beautiful! The comfortable and scenic back porch provided beautiful and calming views during the rainy nights. The kayaks were put to use as we kayaked the Withalacoochie 3.5 miles of beauty to the Rainbow River. Our host recommended Swampys and it was great food with a gorgeous view on Rainbow River. The road going in was more fit for a 4x4 but it was worth the drive. Note: there is no spa/hot tub which is listed but not pictured. It didn’t matter as we probably wouldn’t have used it there was too much beauty around us.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

jessica B.

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

Perfect peaceful get away

This property is absolutely stunning! It is tucked away in the woods right on the river. The house is cozy and clean and made for a wonderful weekend
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy K.

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

Withlacoochee Oasis

Lovely river house, cool and tranquil. Great swimming and kayaking from the backyard. Great to sit by the fire pit or on the screened back porch to relax and listen to the birds. Close to KP Hole and many kayak outfitters for the Rainbow R. Good eats at Swampy's and the Blue Gator. Publix, Aldi and Winn Dixie close. Looking forward to a return trip
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angel M.

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

Florida Hospitality at its finest

We had a wonderful relaxing stay at this amazing property. The house was just about perfect for us and our likes. We easily could have stayed longer. This is one of those places that makes you feel welcome right away. Where you get the sense after unpacking you might as well be actually living there. For a VRBO/ABNB type rental this is just what we are looking for. The host was fantastic accommodating us on a short booking notice and really being available and responsive on a whim - which we shamefully abused on the day of our arrival. As we got settled, we really felt at home right the next day. The location is a bit in the boons but super quiet. We had some activity to attend to every day in Summerfield. But the drive was easy and coming back every afternoon to this very nicely equipped place just felt like a retreat.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

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

Awesome rural location

We enjoy staying at "off the beaten path" locations and this one ranks right up there near the top. It's a great location if you like to have a quiet peaceful stay. Owner was very easy to contact and communicate with. We enjoyed the areas hiking locations and nearby unique restaurants as well. We do plan to return next time we are in the area. Very much enjoyed our time at this property.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jana D.

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

Peaceful and Relaxing

The home and entire property is very beautiful, quiet and peaceful. The home is well maintained. Although the constant rainy weather during over half of our trip kept us inside most of the time, we had a great time using the pool table to keep us entertained every afternoon. My husband was able to go fishing for a little while in the mornings. The owners were very attentive and respectful. They were very quick to answer all questions. It was a great place stay & will definitely keep it in mind for any other future trips to the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathy B.

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

Fun on the river

Beautiful, clean home. Comfy beds. Great outdoor space! We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed the house! Thanks!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

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

Peaceful stay- great location

This house was well equipped with everything you will need. Comfy beds- nice and clean. Unfortunately it rained half our trip but we took advantage of the board games, puzzle and pool table. Would love to go back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tim G.

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

Perfect - sophistication on the river

Modern fully equipped large riverfront home. Clean and in fantastic condition inside and out with everything a person could want for a vacation. Beautiful serene setting to soak in natural Florida, far enough from the commercial tourism to be completely relaxing but close enough by car to "the real world" when needed. Communication from the owner was thorough, friendly and timely. We couldn't have asked for a better place!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew H.

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

Great week in a very quiet, river front home.

Yes, it's down some non-paved roads, but they weren't any problem (end of dry season in March). The location meant that apart from some airplanes and an occasional boater, I could sit at the river and hear nothing but nature. Pileated woodpeckers abound. My son even saw a turkey fly up into the trees over the house. The beds were very comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped. The bathrooms and showers were very nice. Very close to the crystal clear Rainbow Springs, Park, & River. Fire pit was also nice for s'mores. Highly recommend for peace and quiet.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ruben C., Tampa

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

Definitely coming back!!

This has been our favorite family vacation! We fished, kayaked, paddle boarded, tubed, cooked dinner on the fire every night and fished some more. All right from the backyard. Minutes to Rainbow river springs. We rented a jon boat super close by and were in the springs in minutes. Super clean home (that is a must for us) and everything we needed for a great comfy stay. Already talking about when we can come back. Nine year old daughter asked if she could come back for her birthday. Thank you so much for an incredible stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Talina P.

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

Love this place!

The house is very pretty and in perfect condition it has the essentials to spend a few days. We all loved the pool table and the kayaks! The only thing that I think is needed are more chairs.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Leslie C.

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

Book this house!

Easy check in , comfortable beds, had everything we needed plus went the extra mile to set up the fire pit that was perfect all around. Thank you guys for such a wonder stay! We will visit again when we are in town. Leslie C
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Catherine C.

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

We had the time!

Our stay was exactly what we needed - relaxing, and peaceful. It was cool enough for us to have fire each night and the owner made sure we had all the supplies we needed. We spent time on the river kayaking and walked nearby state parks. The owner was very attentive and answered all of our questions. The property was very clean and the house had everything we needed and more. Great mini-vacation!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sonja N.

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

Beautiful Clean Home

This home was so private and comfortable. It is immaculate. Stocked well with towels and everything you need for a week stay. One of the most beautiful properties we have stayed at. We found quite a few paper wasp nests in the ground in the back yard… figured it out the hard way. The road to the house is EXTREMELY ROUGH and unpaved. After a hard rain, we had to put our jeep in “off road” mode, and we hit several deep potholes making our destinations in Dunellon and Crystal River more difficult to get to. We had to add 10-15 minutes to every GPS marker. Aside from that road, we absolutely LOVED this home. The seclusion and privacy is worth the drive.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kendall V.

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

Beautiful home

The owners of the property were very easy to get a hold of and very friendly. The house is gorgeous and we were able to kayak and paddle board right out of the back yard! Would definitely recommend this property!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anita M.

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

Relaxing

Loved our stay. Enjoyed the peacefulness
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melissa K.

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

A Slice of Heaven

Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The house is as beautiful, warm, and comfortable as it looks in the photos. It was the perfect place to rest and relax! We loved the peace and quiet of being on the river. Between the rockers on the covered porch, the hammock, and the fire pit, there was no shortage of tranquil spaces. We loved playing pool each night and enjoyed using the kayak on the river. The owners were extremely responsive before and during our stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Justin Cali

Host profile image
My wife and I, originally from Wisconsin, purchased our beautiful River Home in 2021. Our life is full and our time is busy with 4 awesome kids. As we chase after them and manage our business we don't always have time to use it like we would like and so until those days slow down we make our home available for others to enjoy.

Why they chose this property

Florida is not just about Mickey Mouse and the hustle and bustle. On the outskirts of Florida you will find some of God's best creations. The peace and tranquility of the river is real. Get on a Kayak and take a look for yourself.

What makes this property unique

Is there anything else better than being on the water besides for maybe living on it. You get to do both here while still feeling like you are away from it all.

Languages:

English