Chalet
STAR LAKE - HAWTHORNE FL - CUSTOM A-FRAME HOME WITH DOCK - WATERFRONT
Photo gallery for STAR LAKE - HAWTHORNE FL - CUSTOM A-FRAME HOME WITH DOCK - WATERFRONT





Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Hawthorne, FL
- Place, Putnam Lakes Preserve24 min drive
- Place, Rodman Reservoir27 min drive
- Place, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park30 min drive
- Airport, Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional)42 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3
2 Queen Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Dining area
About this property
STAR LAKE - HAWTHORNE FL - CUSTOM A-FRAME HOME WITH DOCK - WATERFRONT
This private, secluded and spacious Lakefront home is on almost .7 acres of wooded land. The home is 2040 sq ft. It has 30 ft soaring stained beam ceilings with all glass front facing the lake. Has a large living area with the sun setting just to the west, affording sunsets from the deck and new dock.
Sleeps 8 in beds. Master suite has a king bed (upstairs), bedroom 2 has a king bed, and bedroom 3 has TWO queen beds.
Star Lake is in a beautiful community which includes retirees. The lake is one of the favorites for this area. It is a spring-fed lake that is stable. The fishing is excellent, boating, swimming, or kayaking are enjoyable activities here. This area is a jewel for the wildlife that shares their homes with us. It is located roughly less than 15 miles to the Sweetwater Wetlands Park which is a wonderful place to visit and walk the trails and see so much wildlife in their natural habitats. It is a world renowned birding hot spot and man-made enhancement wetland. Take a tour, open 365 days a year. The many species of birds venture out, giving us the privilege of their presence at our lake!
Fishing, oh yes, fishing! Bring your fishing gear. The lake has bass, bluegill, and speckled perch. You can bring a boat which owner can assist in launching. You may keep it at the dock, or shore (inquire about the possibilities before booking)
There are 3 large bedrooms, and 2 large bathrooms. The master bedroom has a king bed and is upstairs with a bath (shower, no tub). Also upstairs, is a large balcony with seating and has 2 large glass dormers, east and west facing. On the main floor are 2 large bedrooms with queen beds and a king bed, and both have large closets. There is a separate dining room downstairs with a door to the pergola patio with party lights for ambiance. There are 2 a/c units ensuring each floor has its' desired comfort setting.
The living room and kitchen are an open floor plan with a beautiful island peninsula and 4 bar stools. The cabinetry allows for much storage. The kitchen has all new appliances with beautiful granite countertops. The kitchen is outfitted with just about anything you would need to cook for your family. Owner can be very accommodating, so if you don’t find what you need, let her know. Importantly, the home is very fresh and clean, and smells clean. A clean home is a priority to us and well cleaned between guests.
Internet and TV’s: The home has a Verizon wireless box with very fast upload/download speeds. The living room has a new 65” smart TV. The upstairs balcony has a large smart TV as well.
Two kayaks and life vests are available for your use. Please let host know that you wish to use them.
The home has a wooded driveway and gate which can be left open/closed. The home is located in Star Lake Forest which is a 3 lakes community. The home is located on the backside of the largest lake, Star Lake. Part of the community has paved roads, and part of it doesn’t. The house sits off a portion that is a county maintained packed dirt road and is rather smooth much of the time. Many residents enjoy riding in their golf carts or walking in the neighborhood.
I think you will enjoy the home, property and lake and all it has to offer. Sitting on the L-shaped sofa and watching boats go by, eagles fishing or landing in the trees or dock, or the great white egrets fishing along the shoreline is so awe inspiring. Many people find this area a nice reprieve from the grid-locked busy cities and beach communities in south FL. It is an easy commute to Gainesville or Ocala for shopping and restaurants, or a 1.25 hour trip over to St. Augustine to enjoy all it has to offer. Hawthorne has a few eateries, and Melrose and Keystone Heights have eateries and restaurants as well.
Located in North Central FL between both coasts, St. Augustine to the east and Cedar Key to the west. A little over an hour to the beaches. There are many natural springs in North Central FL, (our area), and is within about an hour for snorkeling, scuba diving, or tubing. The Hawthorne "Rails to Trails" is a popular paved path to Gainesville for walking or biking and can be accessed in Hawthorne.
There is a Wedding Venue close by, The Barn at Lakeside Ranch located on Orange Lane, Hawthorne. It is located 11 miles away (18 minutes). Dancing Cows Ranch in Cross Creek is located about 20 miles away, 30 minute drive. Contact them directly for their up-to-date info.
Check-in: Myself or a representative meet guests to assure they arrive and give a brief overview of the home, and answer any questions. I have found this to be valuable to our guests.
Prices: There are no hidden costs or fees.
Sleeps 8 in beds. Master suite has a king bed (upstairs), bedroom 2 has a king bed, and bedroom 3 has TWO queen beds.
Star Lake is in a beautiful community which includes retirees. The lake is one of the favorites for this area. It is a spring-fed lake that is stable. The fishing is excellent, boating, swimming, or kayaking are enjoyable activities here. This area is a jewel for the wildlife that shares their homes with us. It is located roughly less than 15 miles to the Sweetwater Wetlands Park which is a wonderful place to visit and walk the trails and see so much wildlife in their natural habitats. It is a world renowned birding hot spot and man-made enhancement wetland. Take a tour, open 365 days a year. The many species of birds venture out, giving us the privilege of their presence at our lake!
Fishing, oh yes, fishing! Bring your fishing gear. The lake has bass, bluegill, and speckled perch. You can bring a boat which owner can assist in launching. You may keep it at the dock, or shore (inquire about the possibilities before booking)
There are 3 large bedrooms, and 2 large bathrooms. The master bedroom has a king bed and is upstairs with a bath (shower, no tub). Also upstairs, is a large balcony with seating and has 2 large glass dormers, east and west facing. On the main floor are 2 large bedrooms with queen beds and a king bed, and both have large closets. There is a separate dining room downstairs with a door to the pergola patio with party lights for ambiance. There are 2 a/c units ensuring each floor has its' desired comfort setting.
The living room and kitchen are an open floor plan with a beautiful island peninsula and 4 bar stools. The cabinetry allows for much storage. The kitchen has all new appliances with beautiful granite countertops. The kitchen is outfitted with just about anything you would need to cook for your family. Owner can be very accommodating, so if you don’t find what you need, let her know. Importantly, the home is very fresh and clean, and smells clean. A clean home is a priority to us and well cleaned between guests.
Internet and TV’s: The home has a Verizon wireless box with very fast upload/download speeds. The living room has a new 65” smart TV. The upstairs balcony has a large smart TV as well.
Two kayaks and life vests are available for your use. Please let host know that you wish to use them.
The home has a wooded driveway and gate which can be left open/closed. The home is located in Star Lake Forest which is a 3 lakes community. The home is located on the backside of the largest lake, Star Lake. Part of the community has paved roads, and part of it doesn’t. The house sits off a portion that is a county maintained packed dirt road and is rather smooth much of the time. Many residents enjoy riding in their golf carts or walking in the neighborhood.
I think you will enjoy the home, property and lake and all it has to offer. Sitting on the L-shaped sofa and watching boats go by, eagles fishing or landing in the trees or dock, or the great white egrets fishing along the shoreline is so awe inspiring. Many people find this area a nice reprieve from the grid-locked busy cities and beach communities in south FL. It is an easy commute to Gainesville or Ocala for shopping and restaurants, or a 1.25 hour trip over to St. Augustine to enjoy all it has to offer. Hawthorne has a few eateries, and Melrose and Keystone Heights have eateries and restaurants as well.
Located in North Central FL between both coasts, St. Augustine to the east and Cedar Key to the west. A little over an hour to the beaches. There are many natural springs in North Central FL, (our area), and is within about an hour for snorkeling, scuba diving, or tubing. The Hawthorne "Rails to Trails" is a popular paved path to Gainesville for walking or biking and can be accessed in Hawthorne.
There is a Wedding Venue close by, The Barn at Lakeside Ranch located on Orange Lane, Hawthorne. It is located 11 miles away (18 minutes). Dancing Cows Ranch in Cross Creek is located about 20 miles away, 30 minute drive. Contact them directly for their up-to-date info.
Check-in: Myself or a representative meet guests to assure they arrive and give a brief overview of the home, and answer any questions. I have found this to be valuable to our guests.
Prices: There are no hidden costs or fees.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (134 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Due to stairs and balcony,well supervised required
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 50 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Inquire about dog size, clean & nails trimmed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Lock doors and leave key in the specified place per owner's instructions. Upon arrival, you will be given the location to leave the key when departing.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
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
We should mention
This property does not have elevators
About the neighborhood
Hawthorne
Located in Hawthorne, this chalet is on the waterfront. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings State Park and Thomas Center are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Orange Springs Park and Rodman Reservoir. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Hawthorne, FL
What's nearby
- Putnam Lakes Preserve - 24 min drive - 15.8 km
- Rodman Reservoir - 27 min drive - 19.1 km
- Santa Fe Lake - 28 min drive - 35.2 km
- Clear Lake - 29 min drive - 23.5 km
- Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - 30 min drive - 35.5 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Circle K - 25 min drive
- Orange Springs Restaurant And Grill - 38 min drive
- Tootsie's Tacos & Burgers - 25 min drive
- Dianne's Old Time Barbeque - 19 min drive
- Burger Barn - 19 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Verified
Mar 6, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Carmen V.
Dec 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carmen V.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Leonard T.
Feb 1, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Leonard T.
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2026
Verified
10/10 Excellent
red m.
Mar 22, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
red m.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
About the host
Hosted by Mary Driggers
I was born and raised outside the Gainesville area and moved to Hawthorne in 1975. My husband grew up in Hawthorne and we love the area and our home on the lake. I love living here because Florida is growing so fast, but my little corner of the map gives me peace, away from the fast paced areas of Florida and the traffic. I love watching the birds around the lake and our pontoon boat rides.
I had the pleasure of hosting another property for 15 years, in our 3 lake community before retiring from it in 2024. I have now decided to host again on a different property in our neighborhood, but on the largest lake, in a beautiful custom A-Frame with magnificent views of the lake. It was renovated and is like new. I enjoy meeting people and in my previous rental cottage, I had the privilege of hosting guests from around the world, and many repeat guests that just loved our community. I enjoy learning about my guests if they want to be 'chatty', or simply answering questions or giving suggestions to make my guests' stay a memorable vacation.
My previous VRBO cottage statistics for 15 years had 10/10 rating and 260 online reviews before selling it in 2024. Unfortunately, VRBO could not transfer the reviews to this new and larger rental.
My husband and I are essentially retired. He was a mechanic at various businesses. I worked at the University of FL for 35 years, first 4 years in the Occupational Therapy Dept, and then the Law School Library for 31 years. After retirement and some travel to the Mediterranean, we built and managed the cottage, Casa Paridiso for 15 years. We love to travel, primarily cruising out of FL ports. We have 3 feathered babies, one being a cockatoo. Oh, and 2 sons and 2 grandteenagers!
Life is good at the lake!
I had the pleasure of hosting another property for 15 years, in our 3 lake community before retiring from it in 2024. I have now decided to host again on a different property in our neighborhood, but on the largest lake, in a beautiful custom A-Frame with magnificent views of the lake. It was renovated and is like new. I enjoy meeting people and in my previous rental cottage, I had the privilege of hosting guests from around the world, and many repeat guests that just loved our community. I enjoy learning about my guests if they want to be 'chatty', or simply answering questions or giving suggestions to make my guests' stay a memorable vacation.
My previous VRBO cottage statistics for 15 years had 10/10 rating and 260 online reviews before selling it in 2024. Unfortunately, VRBO could not transfer the reviews to this new and larger rental.
My husband and I are essentially retired. He was a mechanic at various businesses. I worked at the University of FL for 35 years, first 4 years in the Occupational Therapy Dept, and then the Law School Library for 31 years. After retirement and some travel to the Mediterranean, we built and managed the cottage, Casa Paridiso for 15 years. We love to travel, primarily cruising out of FL ports. We have 3 feathered babies, one being a cockatoo. Oh, and 2 sons and 2 grandteenagers!
Life is good at the lake!
Why they chose this property
Our community has so many friendly people. Everyone is spaced out with wooded properties making them more private. Some walk, or ride in their golf carts throughout the community. The wildlife is so enjoyable to see. If you can get out on the lake, there is a very large eagles nest that has seen several eaglets from the pair of eagles over the years. They land in the trees around the home. There are many birds that migrate through the area. The resident great white egrets visit several times daily to the house and surrounding properties. Seeing the sunsets from the dock or through the clouds makes for the most beautiful pictures. Foggy mornings on the lake with colored skies is so pretty. It is so peaceful and quiet.
What makes this property unique
The home has such a fantastic clear view of the lake, with the lake being close to the house. Sit on the comfy L-shaped sofa and watch the boats go by in the evenings or the birds perching in the trees. The 30 ft of glass facing the lake allows for viewing the birds or the skies. You may fish off the dock and catch dinner. The home is wooded on the roadside with a driveway through the trees to the house, and the lakeside of the home is open with some trees and plants. A privacy fence separates the home on one side and shrubbery on the other side.
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