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2 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 3
Table of Contents 6 14 20 22 24 26 29 33 34 35 36 38 40 42 44 46
Festivals Lodging Twelve “Must Do’s” Florida State Parks Wilderness Trail Cabins & Campgrounds Savor the Suwannee Play Ball! Historic White Springs Nature & Heritage Olustee Battle Re-Enactment Springs Music Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts Wedding Venues Area Map
A Publication of Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Marketing Group 386-758-1312 • 1-877-746-4778 971 W. Duval St., Ste. 145, Lake City, FL 32055 www.SuwanneeValley.org
Printed and Designed by Lake City Reporter 386-752-1293 180 E. Duval St., Lake City, FL 32055 www.LakeCityReporter.com
Looking for something to do?
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213 SW Commerce Drive 4 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
www.aca1.com
10610 Bridge St., White Springs, FL 32096
www.SpringsRUs.com
www.HILakeCityFL.com
386.754.1411
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 5
festivals
6 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2015
SuwanneeValley.org
Something’s Always Happening
F
lorida may be best known for its theme parks and beaches, but those who know only that side of the state are missing out – the Suwannee River Valley region offers some of the best festivals and entertainment events year ‘round. Whether you’re looking for the world’s best barbecue, wondering how many items can be made from blueberries, or looking to take in the spring bloom of azaleas, this is the area for you. The smell of barbecue wafts through the air, and the biggest problem you’ll have is figuring out which booth to stop at. The annual Smokin’ Pig BBQ Fest in Lake City, which takes place at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, is almost too much to handle. Your mouth is watering the moment you put your car in park, and you’re presented with more styles of ribs, chicken, and pork than you’d ever believe possible. Combine that with an afternoon of music and activities and you’re likely to find it difficult to return to work on Monday! If you’re looking for something a little sweeter – with a hint of blue – then take a short trip down the road to Wellborn, where the annual Wellborn Blueberry Festival is held on the first Friday and Saturday in June. You’ll never believe how many things can be made from blueberries, as two dozen vendors specializing in arts, crafts, and food provide some of the most eclectic fare you’ll see this year. The two-day event features various activities, including a parade, blueberry bake-off, raffles and door prizes, and kids’ game. And do yourself a favor – don’t miss the blueberry pancake breakfast featuring some of the best pancakes you’ll ever eat. If you didn’t get enough berries, the next weekend we do it all over again at the Blackberry Festival in Jasper complete with a parade. Have a green thumb? You’re in luck! Azaleas are in bloom at the Wild Azalea Festival every March in White Springs. This is a place you can just kick back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful flowers, or partake in various events, including musical performances, arts and crafts vendors, as well as witness the crowning of the Little Miss Azalea and then take your own Azalea plants home to enjoy. No matter what your taste, we have a festival for you, because there is always something happening in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley. www.SpringsRUs.com
SuwanneeValley.org
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 7
calendar Florida’s Suwannee River Valley
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
January First Day Hike
(New Year’s Day) Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-4408 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Sunrise Canoe Tour
Ichetucknee Springs State Park Ft. White 386-497-4690 www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings
Bridal & Wedding Expo Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
February Primitive Arts Day
Stephen Foster Day
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-1920 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Elvis Tribute Artist Competition
Sweetheart Cycling Weekend
Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration
Ichetucknee Time Machine
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-4408 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.teddymacelvis.com
Downtown Lake City Lake City 386-965-8000
- Suwannee Bicycle Association White Springs, FL White Springs 386-243-0015 www.suwanneebike.org
Ichetucknee Springs State Park Ft. White 386-497-4690 www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings
Ididaride
- Suwannee Bicycle Association White Springs, FL White Springs 386-243-0015 www.suwanneebike.org
Visit Our Website for a complete list of events
8 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
Jeanie and Stephen Auditions Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-4408 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Sunrise Canoe Tour
Olustee Festival and Battle Reenactment
Olustee Park Downtown Lake City & Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park Lake City 386-758-1312 www.battleofolustee.org
Doxie Derby
Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-8822 http://www.columbiacountyfair.org/
Dog ‘n Dive Training Ventures Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center Live Oak 386-364-5250 www.campweed.org
March
Race the Tortoise 5K
O’Leno State Park High Springs 386-454-1853 www.floridastateparks.org/oleno
North Florida Home & Patio Show
Ichetucknee Springs State Park Ft. White 386-497-4690 www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings
Florida Gateway Pro Rodeo Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-8822 http://www.columbiacountyfair.org/
O’Leno Ole’ Chili Cook-Off & Springs Celebration O’Leno State Park High Springs 386-454-1853 www.floridastateparks.org/oleno
Antique Tractor & Engine Show
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Withlacoochee Spring Trail Ride McCulley Farms Jasper 386-938-1147 www.McCulleyfarms.com
Wild Azalea Festival
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Suwannee Springfest
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.suwanneespringfest.com
Alligator Lake Spring Festival Alligator Lake Lake City 386-466-2193 www.fourriversaudubon.org
Suwannee Banjo Camp
Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center Live Oak 386-364-5250 www.campweed.org Wanee Music Festival Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.waneefestival.com
Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-8822 http://www.columbiacountyfair.org/
Aura Music Festival
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.auramusicfestival.com
April
Earth Day
Visit Our Website for a complete list of events
www.SpringsRUs.com
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-4408 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 9
Florida Folk Festival
Always Memorial Day Weekend) Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 877-635-3655 www.floridafolkfestival.com
May
July
Suwannee River Jam
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.suwanneeriverjam.com
Sunrise Canoe Tour
Ichetucknee Springs State Park Ft. White 386-497-4690 www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings
Championship Rodeo Downtown Jasper Jasper 386-792-2725 bassfurniture@windstream.com
Spring Pedal & Paddle Festival - Suwannee Bicycle Association White Springs, FL White Springs 386-243-0015 www.suwanneebike.org
Purple Hatters Ball
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.rachelmorningstarfoundation.org
Memorial Day Getaway Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
10 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
Fourth of July Fireworks
June Wellborn Blueberry Festival (Always the First Weekend in June) Andrews Square - Downtown Wellborn Wellborn 386-963-1157 www.wellborncommunityassociation.com
Tropical Nights Rock the Suwannee
Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-3690 www.lakecitychamber.com
Fourth of July Getaway Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
Antiques, Arts & Collectibles Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-1920 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.phlockersonthesuwanneephc.com
Annual Wild Black Berry Festival Downtown Jasper Jasper 386-792-2725 www.bassfurniture.com
Suwannee River Gospel Jubilee Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.suwanneeriverjubilee.wordpress.com
Visit Our Website for a complete list of events www.SpringsRUs.com
August Camp Weed Summer Camps Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center Live Oak 386-364-5250 www.campweed.org
Blackwater Music Festival Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
MagnoliaFest
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.magnoliafest.com
September Craft Rendezvous
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-1920 www.stephenfostercso.org
Suwannee Fat Tire Festival - Suwannee Bicycle Association White Springs, FL White Springs 386-243-0015 www.suwanneebike.org
Smokin’ Pig BBQ Fest
Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-8822 http://www.columbiacountyfair.org/
Our Santa Fe River Songwriter Contest & Art Show Rum 138 Ft White 386-454-4247 www.oursantaferiver.org
Fireworks Show & Labor Day Weekend Getaway Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
Come to the River 5K & Healing Arts Festival Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-1920 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Jennings Peanut Festival Downtown Jennings Jennings 386-792-1300 www.hamiltoncountycoc.org
Old Time Music Weekend
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-7005 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
October
Quilt Show & Sale
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-7005 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Hernando De Soto Trail & the Indians of Camp Weed Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center Live Oak 386-364-5250 www.campweed.org
Alligator Warrior Festival O’Leno State Park High Springs 386-454-1853 www.alligatorfest.org
National Public Lands Day All Florida State Parks High Springs 386-454-1853 www.floiridastateparks.org/oleno
Live Oak Jazz, Art and Blues Festival
Autumn Fest
“Day on the Suwannee River” Advent Christian Village Dowling Park 386-658-5557 www.acvillage.net
Art in the Park
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-1920 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster www.SpringsRUs.com
Downtown Live Oak Live Oak www.liveoakfestivals.com
Wildlife Encounters!
O’Leno State Park High Springs 386-454-1853 www.floridastateparks.org/oleno Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 11
Big Shoals Pumpkin Fest Big Shoals State Park White Springs 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/bigshoals
Raid on the Suwannee Civil War Reenactment Heritage Park & Gardens Live Oak www.cityofliveoak.org
Withlacoochee Fall Trail Ride
Lake City Snow Day & Christmas Parade
McCulley Farms Jasper 386-938-1147 www.McCulleyfarms.com
Downtown Lake City Lake City, FL 386-752-3690 www.lakecitychamber.com
Rural Folklife Days
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
November Hulaween
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1703 www.musicliveshere.com
Columbia County Fair
Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City 386-752-8822 http://www.columbiacountyfair.org/
Dulcimer Retreat
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 877-635-3655 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Bear Creek Music & Art Festival Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.bearcreekmusicfestival.com
Visit Our Website for a complete list of events 12 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
Suwannee Lights
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak FL 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
December Old Tyme Farm Days
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
Lighting of the Park Downtown Lake City Lake City, FL 385-752-3690 www.lakecitychamber.com
Suwannee County Christmas on the Square & Parade Downtown Live Oak Live Oak, FL 386-362-3071 www.suwanneechamber.com
Santa in the Park
Downtown Lake City Lake City, FL 385-752-3690 www.lakecitychamber.com
Festival of Lights
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster www.SpringsRUs.com
New Year’s Eve Party & Fireworks Show
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak FL 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
New Year’s Eve Trail Ride McCulley Farms Jasper 386-938-1147 www.McCulleyfarms.com
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide13
Take the scenic route in
Suwannee County Visit. Relax. Enjoy.
www.SuwanneeChamber.com 14 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
386-362-3071
LODGING Smoking Rooms
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
Comp Breakfast
No. of Rooms
Branford • Jasper • Lake City Live Oak • White Springs
BRANFORD, FLORIDA Branford, Florida
Smoakhouse Ranch Bed and Breakfast
4321 Southeast County Road 500, Branford, FL 32008 386-935-2662 www.Smoakhouse.com
Steamboat Dive Inn
503 US Hwy 27, Branford, FL 32008 386-935-2283 www.steamboatdiveinn.com
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JASPER, FLORIDA Jasper, Florida
Motel 8
7928 SR 6 W, Jasper, FL 32052 386-792-1255
Budget Inn
8182 SR 6 W, Jasper, FL 32052 386-792-1987
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55
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60
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89
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82
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40
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LAKE CITY, FLORIDALake City, Florida
America’s Best Inn
339 SW Commerce Drive, Lake City, FL 32025 386-755-6300 www.americasbestinnlakecity.com
America’s Best Value Inn
3835 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-4664 www.lakecityamericasbestvalueinn.com
Baymont Inn
3598 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-3801 www.bestwesternflorida.com/lake-city-hotels
Budget Inn
117 NW Knights Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-7720
www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 15
Smoking Rooms
• • • • •
Restaurant On-Site
60
Pet Friendly
• • • • •
Laundry
94
Pool
• •
Meeting Space
Comp Breakfast
100
WiFi/Internet
No. of Rooms
lodging LAKE CITY, FLORIDA Lake City, Florida
Cabot Lodge
3525 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-1344 www.cabotlodgelakecity.com
Comfort Suites
3690 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32024 386-755-9028 www.comfortsuites.com/hotel/fl990
Country Inn & Suites
350 SW Florida Gateway Drive, Lake City, FL 32024 386-754-5944 www.countryinns.com
Cypress Inn
2987 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-9369 www.cypressinnfl.com
Days Inn at I-10
3430 N US Hwy 441, Lake City, FL 32055 386-758-4224 www.daysinnlakecityfl.com
Days Inn of Lake City
3144 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32024 386-752-9350 www.daysinnlakecityfl.com
Driftwood Motel
2764 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32024 386-755-3545
Econo Lodge
178 SW Florida Gateway Drive, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-7891 www.econolodge.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites
538 SW Corporate Drive, Lake City, FL 32024 386-466-1014 www.marriott.com
Gateway Inn
3783 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-1707 www.northfloridamotels.com/gateway.html
Hampton Inn & Suites
450 SW Florida Gateway Drive, Lake City, FL 32024 386-487-0580 www.lakecity.hamptoninn.com
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45
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62
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120
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•
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20
62
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89
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49
89
16 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
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Smoking Rooms
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
Comp Breakfast
No. of Rooms
lodging
LAKE CITY, FLORIDALake City, Florida
Holiday Inn & Suites
213 SW Commerce Drive, Lake City, FL 32025 386-754-1411 www.hilakecityfl.com
127
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Home2 Suites (COMING SOON)
414 SW Florida Gateway Drive, Lake City, FL 32024
Quality Inn
285 SW Commerce Drive, Lake City, FL 32025 386-758-8440 www.qualityinn.com/hotel-lake_city-florida-FLC33
Jasmine Garden Inn
352 NW Knights Avenue, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-4308 www.jasminegardeninn.com
Motel 8
4427 SW SR 47, Lake City, FL 32024 386-752-8933
Pineywoods Lodge
2016 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-8334
Quail Heights Lodge
161 SW Quail Heights Terrace, Lake City, FL 32024 386-752-3339 www.quailheightscc.com/index.htm
Ramada Limited
3340 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-6262 www.ramada.com
Rodeway Inn
205 SW Commerce Drive, Lake City, FL 32024 386-755-5203 www.rodewayinn.com
Scottish Inn
2916 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32024 386-755-0230
Super 8
3954 SW SR 47, Lake City, FL 32024 386-752-6450 www.super8.com
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28
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27
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15
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94
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 17
Traveler’s Inn
13703 S Hwy 441, Lake City, FL 32025 386-752-7808
Travelodge
13771 S Hwy 441, Lake City, FL 32025 386-752-7582 www.travelodge.com
Travelodge
3711 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-9306 www.travelodge.com
Smoking Rooms
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
Comp Breakfast
No. of Rooms
lodging 32
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50
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50
Live Oak, Florida
Quality Inn
6819 US Hwy 129, Live Oak, FL 32060 386-362-6000
Econo Lodge
6811 N US Hwy 129, Live Oak, FL 32060 386-362-7459
Holiday Inn Express
6694 US Hwy 129, Live Oak, FL 32060 386-362-2600
Sunshine Inn
827 W Howard Street, Live Oak, FL 32064 386-362-7828
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52
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69
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63
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25
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40
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White Springs, Florida
America’s Best Value Inn
3119 CR 136, White Springs, FL 32096 386-963-2501 www.americasbestvalueinn.com
Suwannee River Motel
16502 Spring Street, White Springs, FL 32096 386-397-2822
White Springs Bed & Breakfast
16630 Spring Street, White Springs, FL 32096 386-397-4252 www.whitespringsbnb.com
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16
6
Rock Island House Cottages 447 NW Stephen Foster Dr. White Srpings, FL 32096 386-397-1311 or 386-397-0461
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18 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
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• Complimentary Hot & Cold Continental Breakfast • Non-Smoking Hotel • Indoor Pool / Spa • 32” Flat Screen TV • Complimentary Internet (Wired & Wireless) • Meeting Space for up to 60 • Mini-Refrigerator & Microwave in All Rooms
530 South West Florida Dr. • LAKE CITY, FL
RV Sales Hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm
888.440.5754 | CampingWorld OfLakeCity.com
www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 19
TWELVE
MUST DO’S While Visiting Florida’s Suwannee River Valley
1. Tube the Ichetucknee River. 2. Paddle the Santa Fe River at dawn. 3. Attend a music festival weekend at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park. 4. Experience the chiming of the Carillon Tower bells at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park at Christmastime. 5. Relive history at the re-enactment of the Battle of Olustee. 6. Spend the night at a River Camp on the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail. 7. Pack a picnic lunch (must include a pulled pork sandwich fresh from the smoker, a big bag of boiled
20 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
peanuts and a jug of iced cold sweet tea) and relax the day away at Heritage Park & Gardens in Live Oak. 8. Navigate the Class III rapids of Big Shoals State Park on the Suwannee River. 9. Visit the Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum. 10. Grab a pair of binoculars and go birding at Alligator Lake in Lake City. 11. Watch as an entire river goes underground – or re-emerges from it a few miles away – whichever you prefer. 12. Navigate the only Class III Rapids in the state of Florida at Big Shoals.
www.SpringsRUs.com
Faster
better
(Pick two) If you want faster and better in your emergency room visit, we’ve got it! that’s why we’ve been voted the best of the best er in Lake City. From minor injuries to major illnessess, we’re ready for you. and, in an effort to continue to provide the highest level emergency care in the area, an expansion is currently underway to double the size of our er.
Voted Best of the Best Emergency Room in Lake City
Text “ER” to 23000 for average ER wait* times www.LakeCityMedical.com
*Wait defined as arrival time until seen by qualified medical professional. (Message and data rates may apply. For more information, visit: TextERHelp.com)
LCM-6349 Pick Two ER Ad_7x3.9.indd 1
www.SpringsRUs.com
11/14/14 11:13 AM
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 21
FLORIDA STATE
PARKS H
ome to a number of beautiful state parks, you’re never far from one when visiting Florida’s Suwannee River Valley. And it shouldn’t be surprising that most of our region’s state parks are centered on water -- our famous natural springs and spectacular rivers. Although geographically closely located, each of our area parks offer diverse scenery, history and adventure…so be sure to visit them all! Named in honor of the composer of “Old Folks at Home” (perhaps more recognizable by its unofficial title, “Way Down Upon the Suwannee River”), Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs is aptly situated on the banks of…you guessed it…the Suwannee River. The museum features exhibits about Foster’s most famous songs and his music can be heard emanating from the park’s 97-bell carillon throughout the day. In Craft Square, visitors can watch demonstrations of quilting, blacksmithing,
stained glass making, and other crafts, or visit the gift shop. Hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities. Miles of trails wind through some of the most scenic areas of North Florida. For overnight stays, visitors can camp in the full-facility campground or stay in a cabin. Every Memorial Day weekend (last weekend in May), the park hosts the Florida Folk Festival. Other special events include concerts, weekend retreats, a monthly coffeehouse, a regional quilt show, and an antique tractor show. Located in White Springs off U.S. 41 North. Along the banks of the legendary Suwannee River stands the World’s Largest Carillon Bell System that plays beautiful Stephen Foster songs several times a day, you can hear the blacksmith working at the forge, fiddle players walking to and fro, so many sights and sounds not to be missed at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. We are perfect for overnight or day trips and centrally located to quite a few of Florida’s
22 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
awe-inspiring state parks. About a quarter mile past the ranger station at the Suwannee River State Park, a high bluff overlooks the spot where the Withlacoochee River joins the Suwannee River on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Vestiges of history in the park show how important the Suwannee River was to Florida history. Along the river are long mounds of earthworks built during the Civil War to guard against incursions by Union Navy gunboats. Other remnants from the past include one of the state´s oldest cemeteries, and a paddle-wheel shaft from a 19th century steamboat. Five trails, ranging from a quarter mile to 18 miles, loop through surrounding woodlands and provide panoramic views of the rivers. O’Leno and River Rise. Several quiet trails are literally begging to be hiked along, and the scenery is totally relaxing as visitors can amble along at their own leisurely pace. My favorite is the River Trail out to the “sink” where numerous Suwannee Cooters can be observed relaxing in the sun atop the logs at the “sink” itself. I was able to see a Gopher Tortoise, White Tail Deer, and Wild Turkeys along the way there! There are several other trails as well for your enjoyment. You may not see them all on a visit here, but also residents of the park are Grey and Yellow Rat Snakes and Florida Pine Snakes, all non-venomous, armadillos, Grey Foxes, Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, and occasionally an alligator or two! Should you choose not to observe wildlife in their habitat, you can stop at the Nature Center and see them for yourself there. O’Leno State Park is staffed by numerous friendly and cooperative Park Rangers as well as Volunteers who are able to meet your every need at your campsite or a cabin if you might be staying in one of them. The park can accommodate large groups with several cabins and a large dining hall and fully equipped kitchen with fireplaces for the cooler months of the year. Visiting these parks gives you the chance to really explore Florida’s Suwannee River Valley up close. For more information of these and our other parks visit www.SpringsRUs.com
www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 23
THE SUWANNEE RIVER
WILDERNESS TRAIL
A winding adventure
A
fter rising from the Okeefenokee Swamp of southern Georgia, the world famous Suwannee River winds through the woodlands of north Florida, past hundreds of springs, archeological sites, historic points of interest and geologic wonders, before spilling its waters into the Gulf of Mexico. Perhaps the one of the most unique natural trails in the world, the 170-mile Suwannee River Wilderness Trail begins right here in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley. For the skilled paddler, this amazing
24 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide
journey begins at Big Shoals State Park – home to the only Class III rapids in the entire state. If you’re looking for a more leisurely start to your water trail adventure, then White Springs and the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park is for you. Here, you will find the Upper Suwannee deep and narrow, with its banks lined with karst bluffs and moss laden cypress trees. . Limestone cliffs and outcroppings, and white sandbars make the upper Suwannee an ideal setting for picnics and leisurely canoe or kayak outings.
www.SpringsRUs.com
The Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is a system of hubs and river camps spaced a convenient day’s travel apart so visitors can enjoy a lazy day trip or multi-day adventure on the water. “Hubs” are towns or parks from which visitors can explore the river and its surrounding areas by canoe, boat, kayak, bicycle, horse, car or on foot. The hubs provide services as well as special events, shopping and other activities. The first hub on the trail is located at The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park – famous for its year-round outdoor music festivals. This private park also offers RV, tent and primitive camping, as well as cabins. Visitors can enjoy the SOS Café restaurant; take a dip in the pool and buy supplies at The Country Store. A little further downriver, you’ll find Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park, a retirement community on 1,000 acres on the historic Suwannee River. Visitors can stay at the Village Lodge, shop at the grocery store or visit the café. Paddlers are welcome to visit to use facilities, take showers and picnic based on the lodge vacancy rate. River camps are available for visitors who plan multiple-day paddling trips. Each one is approximately 10 miles from established parks and campgrounds on the river. Each river camp features 5 screened sleeping platforms with electricity and ceiling fans, restrooms and showers and primitive camping sites for tents. Each sleeping platform accommodates 6-8 people. River camps are accessible from the river or hiking trails only. No vehicles allowed. Outfitters can work with visitors to deliver gear, coolers and catered food to the river camps. Ask your outfitter for specific services. Visitors can reserve the whole platform by calling (800) 868-9914. Sleep under the stars, at a river camp, in a cabin, at a local motel or bed and breakfast…choose your own adventure! For more information and links to maps, outfitters, lodging, activities, and more trails, visit our website at www.SpringsRUs.com. (Reference: Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Florida State Parks, various publications)
KAYAKCANOE THE SANTA FE RIVER Kayak & Canoe Rental HALF DAY • FULL DAY
•Paddle • Vest • Shuttle Service
2070 SW CR138 • Fort White, FL 32038 386.454.4247
www.SpringsRUs.com
ON THE WAY TO RUM ISLAND PARK
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 25
Campfire Permitted
Shower Sites
Picnic Tables
Dump Station
Tent Sites
RV Sites
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
No. of Cabins/Lodges
cabins & campgrounds
BRANFORD, FLORIDA BRANFORD, FLORIDA River Run Campground
3739 US Hwy 27, Branford, FL 32008 386-935-6553 www.riverruncampgroundflorida.com
Sandy Point Motel & Campground
29685 59th Drive, Branford, FL 32008 386-935-3824 www.facebook.com/pages/Sandy-Point-Motel-Campground/114107768625348
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DOWLING PARK,PARK, FLORIDA DOWLING FLORIDA The Village Lodge - Advent Christian Village 11057 Dowling Park Drive, Dowling Park, FL 32064 386-658-5200 www.acvillage.net
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FORTFORT WHITE, FLORIDA WHITE, FLORIDA Ichetucknee Family Canoe & Cabins Campground 8587 Elim Church Road, Fort White, FL 32038 386-497-2150 www.ichetuckneecanoeandcabins.net
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Ichetucknee Springs Campground
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245 SW Breckenridge Lane, Fort White, FL 32038 386-497-2285 www.ichetuckneespringscampground.com
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SPRINGS, FLORIDA HIGHHIGH SPRINGS, FLORIDA O’Leno State Park
410 SE O’Leno Park Road, High Springs, FL 32643 386-454-1853 www.floridastateparks.org/oleno
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26 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
Campfire Permitted
Shower Sites
Picnic Tables
Dump Station
Tent Sites
RV Sites
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
No. of Cabins/Lodges
cabins & campgrounds JASPER, FLORIDA JASPER, FLORIDA Florida Gateway Resort
7516 SE 113th Boulevard, Jasper, FL 32052 386-792-2692 www.GatewayFL.com
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Gibson Park
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6884 SW CR 751, Jasper, FL 32052 386-792-1631 www.hcrecreation.com 6415 NW CR 143, Jasper, FL 32052 386-938-1147 www.mcculleyfarms.com
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JENNINGS, FLORIDA JENNINGS, FLORIDA Jennings Outdoor Resort Campground
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2039 Hamilton Avenue, Jennings, FL 32053 386-938-3321 www.jenningsoutdoorresort.com
LAKELAKE CITY,CITY, FLORIDA FLORIDA Casey Jones RV Park
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185 SW Arrowhead Terrace, Lake City, FL 32024 386-755-0471 www.caseyjonesrvpark.com E-Z Stop RV Park 181 SW Howell Street, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-2279
Ichetucknee Hideaway Cottages
22665 35th Drive, Lake City, FL 32024 386-935-0844 www.ichetuckneehideawaycottages.com
Inn & Out RV Park
3010 US Hwy 90 W, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-1648 www.inandoutrvpark.com
Lake City Campground
4743 US 441 N, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-9131 www.lakecitycampground.com
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2463 SW Main Boulevard, Lake City, FL 32025 386-755-0110 www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lake-City-RV-Park/136304499753243?fref=ts
Milton’s Country Store and Campground
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October Bend RV Park
2960 SE October Road, Lake City, FL 32025 352-317-1326 www.octoberbendrv.com
www.SpringsRUs.com
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12049 N US 441, Lake City, FL 32055 386-755-6975 www.facebook.com/pages/Miltons-Country-Store-Restaurant-Campground/158363477662 3864 US Hwy 441 N, Lake City, FL 32055 386-752-0830 www.oaknpines.com
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Lake City RV Park
Oaks N Pines RV Park
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 27
Campfire Permitted
Shower Sites
Picnic Tables
Dump Station
Tent Sites
RV Sites
Restaurant On-Site
Pet Friendly
Laundry
Pool
Meeting Space
WiFi/Internet
No. of Cabins/Lodges
cabins & campgrounds
LIVE OAK, FLORIDA LIVE OAK, FLORIDA Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center
11057 Camp Weed Place, Live Oak, FL 32060-7128 386-364-5250 campweed.org
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak, FL 32060-8523 386-364-1683 www.musicliveshere.com
Suwannee River State Park
3631 201st Path, Live Oak, FL 32060 386-362-2746 www.floridastateparks.org/suwanneeriver/default.cfm
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OLUSTEE, FLORIDA OLUSTEE, FLORIDA Ocean Pond Campground
24874 US Hwy 90, Olustee, FL 386-752-2577 www.forestcamping.com/dow/southern/osccmp.htm
WELLBORN, FLORIDA WELLBORN, FLORIDA Black Bear Cabin
12428 CR 137, Wellborn, FL 32094 386-963-4603 www.flablackbearcabin.com
Do Duck Inn
12818 27th Drive, Wellborn, FL 32094 http://www.vrbo.com/133966
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WHITE SPRINGS, FLORIDA WHITE SPRINGS, FLORIDA Bienville Plantation
16673 SE 81st Drive, White Springs, FL 32096 386-397-1989 www.bienville.com
Kelly’s RV Park
142 NW Kelly Lane, White Springs, FL 32096 386-397-2616 www.kellysrvpark.com
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive, White Springs, FL 32096 386-397-2733 www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Rock Island House Cottages
447 NW Stephen Foster Dr., White Srpings, FL 32096 386-397-1311 or 386-397-0461 http://www.vrbo.com/485106
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28 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
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SAVOR
THE SUWANNEE
C
raving catfish? Hankering hushpuppies? We have that… and so much more! Dining options in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley are as diverse as its heritage. From family owned restaurants in operation for decades, to brand new cafés on the culinary cutting edge, to well-known national restaurant chains, there’s sure to be something on the menu to tempt your taste buds. One of Florida’s Suwannee River Valley’s newest hotspots is the “Locally Inspired, Quality Infused, Gastro-Pub and Outdoor Eatery” -- The Marion Street Deli and Pub. Set in the heart of Historic Downtown Lake City, owner Rob Robbins envisioned a “step back in time” when renovating the space to create this indoor/outdoor dining experience. The authentic old-time décor, complete with stained glass windows, hand carved tables and framed newspaper articles from days gone past all beautifully reflect the heritage of Lake City. Enjoy a hand carved steak on the street-side covered patio or relax indoors near the fireplace with a cold craft brew and one of their many creative artesian flat bread pizzas. And don’t forget to ask about their Daily Desserts! The Valley’s Favorite: Wiley’s Crabby Patty with Marion Chips. The Dixie Grill is a full service family dining restaurant established in 1959 and has become a landmark in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley. Located in historic downtown Live Oak, it is a restaurant known by locals and visitors alike for dishes that are old favorites and snappy new items! Specializing in southern breakfast and lunch, soul food and new south cuisine, they take traditional favorites and add a little flare here and there. The result is a blend of contemporary cuisine infused with traditional southern ingredients. Sample a dish from the menu or try one of the “specials” created daily by Chef Robbie Thomas. If you are in the Live Oak area, you’ll want to include the Dixie Grill on your list of places to visit! The Valley’s Favorite: The Stalvey, fries and a slice of Coconut Cream Pie! For a complete list of where you can “Savor the Suwannee” and links to area restaurants, visit our website at www.SpringsRUs.com. www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 29
dining dining Phone Number
Website
Cuzin’s Café 109 Savannah Street NW
386-935-0985
www.cuzinscafe.weebly.com
Sister’s Café 208 Suwannee Avenue SW
386-935-6989
BRANFORD, FLORIDA Branford
FORT WHITE, FLORIDA Ft White
Nooner’s Diner 7674 SW US Highway 27 JASPER, FLORIDA
Jasper H & F Restaurant 202 Hatley Street SE
LAKE CITY, FLORIDA
386-497-1123
386-792-3074
Lake City Blue Roof Grill 2668 NE Bascom Norris Dr
386-719-2424
Café on the Square 184 N Marion Avenue
386-758-3088
Champ’s Eastside 2172 SE Baya Dr
386-754-0050
Chasteen’s Downtown 204 N Marion Avenue
386-752-7504
Cornerstone Crabs & More 164 NE Railroad Street
386-758-0047
Costa Del Sol Mexican Restaurant 2260 W US Hwy 90
386-243-4528
Country Skillet Diner 133 SW Webbs Gln
386-752-2800
El Potro Mexican Restaurant 4290 W US Hwy 90
386-758-3100
Fu King Chinese Restaurant 649 SW Main Boulevard
386-752-6044
Guangdong Chinese Restaurant 2469 W US Hwy 90 (Lake City Mall)
386-961-8181
30 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
www.elpotrorestaurant.com
www.guangdong-restaurant.com
dining dining Phone Number
Website
LAKE CITY, FLORIDA
Hannah’s Seafood at Trader J’s 4196 W US Hwy 90
386-752-5255
Hip Hop Fish & Chicken 452 N Marion Avenue
386-961-0003
Holiday Inn & Suites C213 SW Commerce Drive
386-754-1411
Ken’s BBQ 1659 W US Hwy 90 (Plus 2 other Lake City locations)
386-752-5919
Kountry Korner Restaurant 1084 N Marion Avenue
386-752-4833
Lester’s Subs, Salads & More I-75 & Hwy 47
386-755-3082
www.scaffs.com
Marion Street Deli & Pub 281 N Marion Avenue
386-487-6194
www.marionstreetdeliandpub.com
Mike’s Café & Grille 426 SW Commerce Drive
386-961-9911
www.mikescafeandgrille.com
Milton’s Country Store & Restaurant 12049 N US Hwy 441
386-755-6975
Phish Heads 1445 SW Main Boulevard
386-755-0490
www.phishheads.com
Pizza Boy Pizza 618 S Marion Avenue
386-719-6488
www.pizzaboyfl.com
Porterhouse Grill 894 SW Main Boulevard
386-754-5907
Ray’s Deli & Grill 419 SW State Road 247
386-438-8553
Shirley’s Restaurant 746 E Duval Street
386-755-9130
Skip’s Delicatessen & Sandwiches 1452 SW Main Boulevard
386-752-1520
The Café Restaurant & Coffeehouse 281 N Marion Avenue
386-697-4474
www.SpringsRUs.com
www.hilakecityfl.com
www.raysdeli.com
thecafe.us Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 31
dining dining Phone Number
Website
LAKE CITY, FLORIDA
Wasabi 313 NW Commons Loop LIVE OAK, FLORIDA
386-755-8666
Live Oak All Decked Out Café 1538 Ohio Avenue S
386-362-7752
Brown Lantern 417 E Howard Street
386-362-1133
www.brownlantern.com
Dixie Grill & Steer Room 101 Dowling Avenue SE
386-364-2810
www.thedixiegrill.com
Jay’s Restaurant 816 Howard Street W
386-362-3534
Ken’s BBQ US Hwy 129 S
386-362-4054
Live Oak Gathering Café 302 Ohio Avenue S
386-362-1189
Sheryl’s Noon Buffet & Catering 515 5th Street NW
386-362-2898
SOS Café at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park 3076 95th Drive
386-364-1703
www.musicliveshere.com
Stoudemire’s Restaurant 203 Ohio Avenue N
386-330-4944
www.stoudemiresrestaurant.com
PROVIDENCE, FLORIDAProvidence
Village Grill 4631 W State Road 238
386-755-8667
WELLBORN, FLORIDA Wellborn
Junior’s Place Restaurant 12224 CR 10a S
386-963-3287
WHITE SPRINGS, FLORIDA White Springs
Family Traditions 16874 Spring Street
386-397-2637
Fat Belly’s 16750 Spring Street
386-397-2040
32 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
PLAY BALL
IN THE SUWANNEE VALLEY
T
he Suwannee River Valley touts outstanding youth and adult sports tournament venues. The combination of geographical location, near the crossroads of I-75 & I-10, more than 2200 moderately priced hotel rooms and proximity of many restaurant choices make this area a popular site for sports tournaments. The Southside Recreation Complex in Lake City touts 32 athletic fields with 13 baseball fields, eight girls softball fields, a four-field adult softball complex and seven soccer fields. The complex features central concession and restroom facilities, 15 batting cages, along with nearly 1,000 paved parking spaces.
This complex is complimented by a first-class complex in Live Oak with a five-field baseball, softball and soccer park, which includes pavilions, tennis courts and walking trail. Nearby Jasper has a quality baseball and softball complex, augmented by a rodeo arena. Fort White features baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, soccer fields and community center complex. For more information about scheduling a tournament in the Suwannee River Valley, call at (386) 719-7545 or visit www.suwanneevalley. org.
www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 33
HISTORIC
WHITE SPRINGS
T
he historic Town of White Springs – Florida’s Original Tourist Destination – is on a revitalization campaign to capitalize on its cultural heritage and unique natural resources. Originally incorporated in 1831 as Jackson Spring, town fathers completed a charter to incorporate as the Town of White Springs on Christmas Day in 1885. The economic driver for the community was the White Sulphur Spring, which was noted for its medicinal waters. A description of the spring, published in 1832, states: “It is said to perform some wonderful cures. A person went there that had lost the use of his arm, another of both his legs, one woman that was blind and had been blind for several years, one man with dropsy and one with the white swelling and they were all cured and came away as sound as they ever were in their lives.” (Woodard) But legend has it that hundreds of years before the arrival of Europeans in North Central Florida, the spring was sacred to the native Timucua tribes who decreed that a seven-mile radius around the spring was always to be set aside as neutral ground for healing. No weapons were tolerated in the neutral zone of the healing spring. Today, visitors to White Springs enjoy participating in the “Come to the River Healing Arts Festival” in early September of each year. The festival is held in the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, which is best known as the site of the oldest state sponsored folk festival in the United States. The Florida Folk Festival was established in 1953 and continues to entertain thousands
during the extended Memorial Day weekend each year. The historic community is well-known to eco-tourists who come to enjoy natural resource-based recreation. These intrepid souls include hikers on the Florida Trail, members of the Suwannee Bicycle Association (SBA) whose headquarters are located on Bridge Street right next to the historic Adams Bros. Country Store, and kayakers who rent their gear from American Canoe Adventures at the crossroads of US 41 and CR 136. Fishing is a mainstay of locals who smoke, grill or deep fry their catches, and visitors are welcome to partake of the Suwannee’s bounty. Bird watchers can spot eagles, osprey, woodpeckers and owls. And at night, the red eyes of alligators that call the Suwannee their home, are clearly visible to those who venture to the river’s edge. While lodging is limited, the White Springs Bed & Breakfast is a favorite of many repeat visitors to the area. A more leisurely pastime for the day tripper is a walking tour of the community’s historic structures, which include the world-famous Spring House, the Sophie Jane Broward Adams House (Victorian), the Camp (Dr. Benjamin Franklin Camp) Family Home (modified Queen Anne) and the one-room Camp Schoolhouse, the Telford Hotel, the Nellie McCallum Home (Mediterranean Revival), and the recently restored Adams County Store. These structures and many more are recognized as a Historic District in the National Register. (Reference: Tracy Woodard, The Documented History of White Springs, Florida. Hunter Printing, 2011.)
34 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
NATURE
& HERITAGE
V
RIVER RISE PRESERVE STATE PARK
State Park Family Camping • Picnicking • Group Camping • Hiking • Biking • Primitive Camping • Swimming Canoeing • Equestrian Trails • Fishing
386.454.1853
www.FloridaStateParks.org/oleno
isitors to White Springs arrive with expectations and a number of questions. “What’s there to do within a short walk or a scenic drive?”; “Where is the Historic Spring House?”; “How do we get to those springs we read about?” and, “Where can I find local keepsakes of our visit?” Nature & Heritage Center volunteers have the answers! Since early 2014, town officials and volunteers have been re-programming the Nature & Heritage Center in their quest to make the center the most visitor-friendly in the region. In addition to a variety of available information about what to do and see in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley, The Center also offers a wide array of arts and crafts by regional artisans – from fine art by the Plein Air painters to Janet Moses’ recycle art to textile crafts and pottery, and much more! For visitors seeking to experience the area’s history and heritage, options include the White Springs Historic District Walking Tour, the famous ante bellum museum in Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, the Suwannee County Museum located in the historic Union Depot & Atlantic Coastline Freight Station, and the Columbia County Museum located in the lovely 1870’s era Italianate home of the pioneer Vinzant Family. Outdoor enthusiasts looking for the best fishing spots, kayaking and canoeing on the Suwannee River, hunting, birding, hiking and cycling trails, can get directions in the Nature and Heritage Center. A newly minted “White Springs Multi-day Itinerary,” prepared by the Office of Greenways and Trails, provides GPS coordinates and links to overnight lodging, camping options, and eateries. Visitors are always welcome “way down upon the Suwannee River,” as songwriter Stephen Foster wrote in 1851, when he made “Old Folks at Home,” an iconic part of the history of White Springs. (Reference: Tracy Woodard, The Documented History of White Springs, Florida. Hunter Printing, 2011.)
www.SpringsRUs.com
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 35
BATTLE OF
OLUSTEE
T
RE-ENACTMENT
he smoke in the air is heavy from the cannon blasts, and soldiers clad in grey and blue merge on one another, bayonets raised. It’s something out of history, yet it’s happening before your eyes. The small child in front of you covers his ears as another gun volley from the Confederates causes the front line of the Union force to collapse, causing a decisive end to the battle. History it may be, but the largest Civil War battle in the state of Florida is commemorated each year in the small town of Olustee, just east of Lake City. Annually, nearly 30,000 people from across the state and nation converge on North Florida to remember the sacrifices of those at the Battle of Olustee, a Confederate victory that kept the state capitol of Tallahassee from falling to Union soldiers. In Olustee and Lake City both, every February marks a look at the past, though in very different ways. Olustee is a true remembrance of past events – visitors can walk through sutlers row and peruse vintage, historically accurate gifts, or sit down and talk with re-enactors from both armies. Re-enactors come from all over – as far as Ireland, some years – and make camp during the three-day event, oftentimes braving the cold and rain. In Lake City, activities are far more festive as the downtown area becomes a haven for those seeking unique gifts and items. Dozens of vendors line Marion Street, selling various wares, homemade items, and exquisite foods. The twoday downtown festival is complete with a parade and Civil War skirmish, which features a re-enactment of the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac on Lake DeSoto. More information about this year’s festival can be found at www.olusteefestival.com.
J O U R N E Y
1864
B A C K
The Battle Continues Every February
Call for more information Tourist Development Council 386.758.1312 Or Blue Grey Army 386.755.1097 or visit http://www.olusteefestival.com
36 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
T O
Columbia County Fairgrounds
“We Have Your Entertainment Covered!”
- Nov 7, 2015 COLUMBIA COUNTY FAIR Oct 30.
Visit Us At: www.columbiacountyfair.org
(386) 752-8822
438 SW SR 247, Lake City, FL
miles and miles of scenic country roads. 50+ miles of single track mountain bike trails await you!
Pedal, Paddle and Play with SBA IDIDARIDE Suwannee Pedal ‘n’ Paddle Festival Suwannee Fat Tire Festival
386.243.0115 www.SpringsRUs.com
SBA@suwanneebike.org www.SuwanneeBike.org
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 37
SPRINGS
SUN. SWIMMING. SERENITY.
38 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2015
SuwanneeValley.org
O
n any ordinary day, you’ll find yourself surrounded by these at any number of springs in North Florida. While many outdoor enthusiasts venture into the area for any number of reasons - whether they want to try and tame the mighty Suwannee River of kayak through the whitewater rapids at Big Shoals State Park - others just enjoy the leisure that the springs in the area provide. In the Suwannee River Valley region, springs begin and end with the Ichetucknee River. The Ichetucknee is a year-round tourist attraction – more than 200,000 people annually tube the crystal clear waters of the majestic springs and river. Whether you’re laying out on a rock or taking a cool dip in the spring head, the Ichetucknee is a paradise to many, a famed nirvana of North Florida. From the end of May until early September, tubing is the conveyance of choice on the springs, though visitors also enjoy snorkeling and canoeing. Be prepared, though – spring, summer, fall or winter, the Ichetucknee waters are 72 degrees year ‘round, a bit chilly for the summer months. If you’re a little more on the exploration side, Peacock Springs may be what you’re looking for. The Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park boasts two major springs, a spring run and six sinkholes. Certified cave divers have explored and surveyed more than 33,000 feet of underwater passages at the park, and Peacock Springs features one of the longest underwater cave systems in the U.S. Diving is also featured at Troy Spring State Park in Branford, though the 70-foot deep spring also offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The depths of the spring also contain the remnants of the Civil War-era steamboat “The Madison” that was scuttled in the 1860s to keep it from being captured. Cave diving requires special advanced training to enjoy the sport and to access the many State and private parks in the area that have been established around the natural beauty of the springs and the underground rivers that feed them. North Florida is a destination spot for international cave divers because it offers a balance of adventure, safety and convenience not found anywhere else in the world. Check out the National Speleological Society Cave Diving Section www.nsscds.org or the National Association of Cave Divers www.safecavediving.com to find instructors and guides for the area.
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 39
MUSIC ON THE RIVER
40 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2015
SuwanneeValley.org
M
usic flows as freely as the rivers in the Suwannee River Valley. Having some of the best music venues on earth for performances certainly doesn’t hurt. Sure, when you think music, your mind may typically wander to some of the grander and larger venues in the state - Gainesville, Jacksonville and Tallahassee are just a hop, skip and a jump away from the fertile Suwannee River Valley region. But if you just sit back, relax and listen to the plucking of guitar strings, you’ll realize some of the best music is just around the corner. This is possible, of course, thanks to two incredible venues along the Suwannee River - the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park and the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. Both present unique - though very different - musical stylings year ‘round, culminating in several music attractions that draw thousands from, not just the state, but around the nation. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, located in Live Oak, is a rare mixture of music and scenery. Nestled on the shady banks of the mighty Suwannee River, the park is home to some of the largest music concerts in the state. While performances can be found almost every weekend at the Spirit of the Suwannee, the venue boasts two flagship concerts every spring: the Suwannee River Jam and Wanee Festival. Though both draw crowds in the tens of thousands, the two concerts could not be more different. The Suwannee River Jam provides the best the Country music world has to offer - the show boasts some of Country music’s hottest artists every year, and has included Montgomery Gentry, Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, John Michael Montgomery, Zac Brown Band and more. While the Spirit of the Suwannee draws more of a local crowd, the Wanee Festival draws from as far away from California and is a multiday music experience that culminates annually with a performance by the Allman Brothers. In recent years, the event has boasted Widespread Panic and the Derek Trucks Band, as well as dozens of other bands. As there are few breaks in the music, the park serves as a campground year ‘round, meaning there’s little chance of missing any of those high-powered acts you came to see. Just a few miles up the river in White Springs is the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, named in honor of the writer of Florida’s state song. While there are various activities - music included - throughout the year at the park, the biggest draw is the annual Folk Festival, featuring some of the best music Florida has to offer. The three-day celebration of music, dance, stories and food brings natural Florida to life, and more than 300 performances can be seen during the Memorial Day weekend.
Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 41
FOR THE
OUTDOOR SPORTING ENTHUSIASTS
H
unting camps and fishing retreats abound in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley…the opportunities for the outdoor sporting enthusiast are practically endless! From the hard-fighting and elusive Suwannee Bass, to nimble white-tailed deer and fast-flying game birds, your sporting challenge awaits! Only here, will you find Bienville Plantation, one of America’s most renowned hunting and fishing retreats. Nestled in the heart of Florida’s Suwannee River Valley near White Springs, Bienville Plantation caters to individual sportsmen, families, groups and corporate retreats. It is the destination for world class guided bass fishing, quail and trophy alligator hunting. What separates Bienville Plantation from all other freshwater fishing retreats is the vast number of privately owned and managed lakes. Each lake is
unique in character, making Bienville Plantation guided bass fishing opportunities even more special. Because of the varying and distinctive features (size, design, water color, depth, structure and vegetation), the fishing is on fire all the time on at least one the lakes and Bienville’s professional guides are always set to take you where the bite is hottest! Bienville Plantation’s grassland and groomed pine land courses provide wing shooting cover expected in a southeastern quail plantation. Sportsmen can enjoy the quietness and solitude of a stroll through tall grass behind a brace of Pointers, Setters, or Brittany’s and the opportunity to shoot at fast flying released birds. Luxury lodges overlook scenic Lake Purvis, providing accommodations for up to 10 people per cabin. Each lodge has five bedrooms with a private bath
42 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
in each, a central great room, full kitchen, hardwood floors, wood burning fireplaces, satellite TV, Wi-Fi and a screened in porch. Bienville’s main lodge offers fine dining, a well-stocked bar, and an open atmosphere for those relaxing after an exciting day of hunting and fishing. Enjoy five-star dining prepared by Chef Rose, cocktails and spectacular sunsets to wind up your day.
Hosted by the Jasper Revitalization & co-hosted by Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce
Saturday, June 13
on Central Ave. in beautiful downtown Jasper, Florida Ted McMillian- master of ceremonies Teddy MacElvis & The Legends (entertainment) Arts, Crafts, Food, Pancake breakfast, featuring homemade Wild Blackberry jam & jellies & Wild Blackberry Cobblers, pies & ice cream. Wild Blackberry Bake Off, dog show, Antique engines & Classic Car exhibits
(386)792-1300 www.SpringsRUs.com
Sponsored in part by Hamilton County Tourist Development Council
hamcoc@windstream.net Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 43
F
lorida’s Suwannee River Valley features thousands of acres of treed forests, serene lakesides, peaceful riverbanks, Spanish moss covered canopies, an award winning chapel and stunning state parks… one of which is perfect regardless of how you envision your dream wedding. From a traditional, formal ceremony to a themed reception uniquely planned for you and your guests down to the finest detail, exchange your vows in Florida’s Suwannee River Valley! Here are just a few of the countless venues available to the couple who wants to start with a lifetime of memories together… The Country Club at Lake City is an elegant venue set on the fairways of Lake City’s premier golf course. The Club features ballroom capacity for up to 350 guests and in-house wedding and reception catering. The beautifully renovated PHOTO BY: DANA GOODSON PHOTOGRAPHY Banquet Hall at Columbia County Fairgrounds in Lake City is available for weddings receptions and social events accommodating up to 500 guests. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park with its sprawling green lawns, majestic carillon tower, and wedding pavilions amongst camellia and azalea gardens is the perfect venue for couples wanting the backdrop of natural beauty to highlight their special day. Bienville Plantation’s lodges can beautifully accommodate more intimate wedding parties of 50 or less. One of the most renowned hunting and fishing resorts, Bienville offers indoor, as well as outdoor, wedding and reception sites, catered by their private executive chef. On the Suwannee River, The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park will introduce you to countless ceremony, reception and accommodations options for you and your guests – all within the grounds of the park! The special events staff at the park can arrange everything for you from a formal, traditional setting to creating the perfect themed wedding and reception – from wonderful to wacky – it’s your day, it’s up to you! Nestled between Lake City and Live Oak is Camp Weed and Cerveny Conference Center. This quiet retreat is home to the architecturally award winning Mandi’s Chapel -- one of the most stunning wedding venues in the Valley. Heritage Park & Gardens in Live Oak is a historic estate complete with a two-story mansion, amazing wedding arbor and gardens, bridal party prep area and indoor reception area. For a full list of unique wedding venues, or additional details, photos and location contact information, visit our website at www.SpringsRUs.com. 44 Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide www.SpringsRUs.com
WEDDING VENUES
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 45
75
GEORGIA FLORIDA
Jennings 129
HAMILTON
41 3
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Area Map
CR 15
2
41
CR 1 4
1
EE RIVER COOCH WITHLA
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CR 6
Jasper 41
Blue Springs
Suwannee River Valley
Columbia County
441
Hamilton County Suwannee County
CR 6
6
CROSSROADS
47
CR 137 CR
51
ADAMS
5 13
75
CR 158
47
Purvis Still
6
CR 24
41
SUWANNEE 49 CR 137
CR 242
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90
100 CR
441
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41
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216th St.
47
CR 240
5 24
CR 349
CR 240
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CR
129
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27
Columbia
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Brannen Rd. CR
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COLUMBIA COUNTY FAIR
47
129
Seeley Rd
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90
Lake City Municipal Airport
Lake City
CR
129th Rd.
UNT
75
CR 245
CR 252
27
SUW ANN
41
10
CR
165th Rd.
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47
7
CR 249
CR 349
193rd Rd.
225TH ROAD
Irvi
250
CR 135
CR
90
PINE MO
Warren Rd
4
Osceola National Forest
441
10
CR 252
51
COLUMBIA
Wellborn
129 129th Rd.
CR 250
CR 252
Live Oak
51
136
10
10
CR 49
169th Rd.
185th Rd.
Lancaster
Suwannee County Airport CR 136
136
ER
LIVE OAK COLISEUM
90
Dowling Park
2
White Springs
24
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EE R
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136
3
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153rd Rd.
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90
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CR 132
Ellaville
217th Rd.
SUW ANN
129
CR 252A
10
441
SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK
1
CR
2
STEPHEN FOSTER FOLK CULTURE CENTER STATE PARK
27
Bomar Rd.
Branford 27
3
BIG SHOALS STATE PARK
4
PEACOCK SPRINGS STATE PARK
47
5
Sandy Point
129
O’LENO STATE PARK
TA F E
47
75
SuwanneeValley.org47
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27
6
ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK
6 46 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2015
SAN
CR 238
Fort White CR 18
COLUMBIA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 5
441
27
SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK LIVE OAK COLISEUM
CR 131
SUWANNEE RIVER STATE PARK
Sandhill Rd.
49
1
Ellisville
SAN
TA F E
RIVE
R
41
High Springs Alachua
R
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Florida’s Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 47
Think Outside...
P.O. Box 1847, Lake City, FL 32056
Leave the box behind.
www.SpringsRUs.com