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

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Exterior
Come Way Down The Suwannee River & Rest...Where Nature Meets Luxury!
Life Is Good At The River Rest!
Beach
Everyone Can Enjoy!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8199.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Dryer
  • Washer

Explore the area

Map
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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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
All children under parental guidance.
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Events

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 60 out of 61 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 61 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 61 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 61 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 61 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Sarah C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

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

10/10 Excellent

Nayla F.

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

Wonderful time

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

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

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

David G., Oldsmar

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.

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Valerie M., Tallahassee

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

Ashley H.

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

Pleasantly pleased

We enjoyer our stay very much. The steps were in need of some repair but overall very nice. Fishing during the day was terrible because of the boat traffic though. Plenty of space for everyone and seemed to have everything we needed. I do not like technology so the covection stove was terrible for me. The house is 40 minutes from a large grocery store so pack accordingly. We had to be modest with the hot water. There were 8 of us so we all couldn't take showers back to back. Cleaning supplies were plentiful so being tidy wasnt a chore. I believed we booked the right house for the vacation we planned in the long run. Owners were very friendly!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

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

10/10 Excellent

Sherry F.

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

George S., Jacksonville, FL

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

Great location and property

Renting was easy
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah B.

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

Perfect!! 5 Stars Plus!

Beautiful, spotless house perfect for our 3 couples trip. The early risers were able to stay downstairs & make coffee without waking the rest of the house. The kitchen had plenty of room for multiple cooks and was stocked with everything we could have wanted and then some. Bob & BJ next door were extremely helpful with restaurant and boating and fishing information. Captain Cas was very quick to get back to me with my multiple questions. If you bring your boat, be sure to go to Ichetucknee River. Crystal clear water, one of the prettiest places I've ever seen in Florida. When we weren't out boating we spent our time on the screen porch or on the deck overlooking the river. Fantastic place to stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

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

Family gathering

Had a spur of the moment trip with family that were all in the area at the same time! (We are from MN) the space and location was perfect. The fire pit was great, as was the barbecue area and area overlooking the river! We all had so much fun! Close enough to access itchetucknee state park too!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

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

Nice relaxing stay

The property was just as pictured. Very spacious and has everything you could ever need. Fully stocked and then some! We enjoyed having the down stairs apartment for our grandparents as it was easily accessible. Mr. Steve took us on an all day boat ride to several local springs and it was beautiful! We rested well at the Suwanee River Rest!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rita D., United States

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

Birthday Celebration

We are used to bringing a lot of items from home at every VRBO…however, this property provided everything you needed & more! It was spacious & had seating for everyone inside & out! There were kayaks & beautiful outdoor lighting on the dock. We would rent this property again for sure! The communication with the property manager was awesome & the response time to any question was timely!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Milos R.

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

We’ll be back definitely !

10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy L.

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

Fantastic Sister's trip and Birthday on the River

We had a wonderful time here. The location was great, right on the riverfront. Great view from the screened porch and deck. House was large and roomy. It was stocked with anything you could ask for. One of my sons brought his golf cart, so we could take some nice little rides around the area. Several of my sons were able to bring their boats on my birthday, the floating dock was great. Another plus was the large open area under the house and all the outdoor furniture. Bob was great. Anytime we had a question or needed help, he was right there.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Steve Cascaddan (Captain Cas)

Host profile image
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!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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