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

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Exterior
Life Is Good At The River Rest!
Beach
Everyone Can Enjoy!
From the Living Room...To Natures Living Room!

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 82150 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Branford, FL
  • Place, Suwannee River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Stuarts Landing Conservation Area
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ginnie Spring
    ‪40 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!

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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
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.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to 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 rubbish
Return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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.

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. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and hunting.
View more Holiday homes in BranfordOpens in a new window
Map
Branford, FL

What's nearby

  • Suwannee River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Stuarts Landing Conservation Area - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Ichetucknee Springs State Park - 18 min drive - 23.3 km
  • Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park - 35 min drive - 40.8 km
  • Ginnie Spring - 40 min drive - 36.8 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Hardee's - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 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 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida?

As of 28 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida on 4 May, 2026 start from S$510, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Escape to Serenity at Suwannee River Rest – Pet-Friendly Lodge in North Florida?

On-site 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?

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. 69 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

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

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

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

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
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Apr, 2025
We are so happy you enjoyed the SRR and thank you for the kind compliment, we take great pride in presenting her to the public. We hope you will come again soon, but until then, adventure safely
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
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jun, 2020
Thank you so much, and we are glad ya'll enjoyed yourselves during your visit at our Little Slice of Natures Heaven! Hope to see ya again real soon! Adventure Safely, CC
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

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
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar, 2022
Thank You Michelle! We sure are Blessed to Own the SRR! Adventure Safely, Capt. Cas
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

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
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
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Mar, 2020
Thank you Katherine! There is nothing better than a family getaway, especially at the SRR. We hope to see you all again for a longer family getaway. Keep the wind to your back & you'll always be moving forward! C.C.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susie M.

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

Relaxing, Relaxing, Relaxing

This home was perfect for our family of six, five adults and one teen. Very functional and beautiful. The view of the river from the dock was serene and morning coffee on the porch was a great way to start the day. Captain Cas was easily reached by text. Definitely would stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 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
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Oct, 2024
So glad you enjoyed the SRR and the view! Please come again and we'll charter the springs. Adventure safely
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
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jul, 2021
So Glad you Loved the SRR even with Mother Nature Not Cooperating! Please Come Again When She's Not Watering The Yard!) Adventure Safely! CC
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
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Aug, 2021
WE are So Glad You Loved the SRR! Come Back Anytime, Until Then... Adventure Safely! SRR
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
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug, 2024
Thank you for visiting and enjoying the SRR!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura L.

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
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Apr, 2021
We are so glad you had a relaxing time at the SRR. Please come back for more Adventures in our surrounding area in the future! Until Then... Adventure Safely! SRR
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Valerie M.

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

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
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept, 2020
Thank You Nancy, & we are sure glad you enjoyed our little slice of Natures Heaven! Come again soon & Adventure Safely, CC SRR
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Micaela A.

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
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Oct, 2020
Thank You Micaela! We sure are glad you enjoyed our Little Slice of Natures Heaven & Of Course Our Super Host, Bob & BJ!) Please Come Back Real Soon! Adventure Safely,l Capt. Cas
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jayme T.

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
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Apr, 2020
Thank You So Much for coming and visiting our little slice of Natures Heaven! We sure you come back soon for another great outdoor adventure. Sincerely, SRR

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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