Guidebook for the Treehouse & Cabin Retreat, Old Town, FL
Food scene
Local restaurants and places to dine, grab a bite to eat, or buy food to take home.
Good food, reasonably priced, and less than 7 miles from the treehouse. Free wi-fi is also available. Check their website or social media page for hours, menu, etc.
352-542-8080
Cottage Cafe
139 SE 349 HwyGood food, reasonably priced, and less than 7 miles from the treehouse. Free wi-fi is also available. Check their website or social media page for hours, menu, etc.
352-542-8080
Nice local restaurant and bar right on the Suwannee River! Good food with a view! Outdoor dining that is pet friendly. Check out their social media page for specials or their website for their menu. 10 miles from the treehouse.
11 locals recommend
Suwannee Belle Landing
282 SE 989th StNice local restaurant and bar right on the Suwannee River! Good food with a view! Outdoor dining that is pet friendly. Check out their social media page for specials or their website for their menu. 10 miles from the treehouse.
Waterfront dining near the Gulf of Mexico with good food and a coastal ambiance.
11 locals recommend
Salt Creek Restaurant
23440 SE 349 HwyWaterfront dining near the Gulf of Mexico with good food and a coastal ambiance.
The closest full grocery store to the treehouse (about 7 miles), it will generally have most of what you need, though we do recommend bringing any must haves with you as choices here may be limited.
12 locals recommend
Old Town Family Markets
26064 US-19The closest full grocery store to the treehouse (about 7 miles), it will generally have most of what you need, though we do recommend bringing any must haves with you as choices here may be limited.
Just 30 minutes southwest of the Treehouse Cabin Retreat (and not far from Andrews Wildlife Management Area and Chiefland) is a local farm that focuses on watermelons, hay, and red angus cattle, but also grows other kinds of produce and sells their produce, meat, and other farm goods in their farm store.
** You can even grab lunch (most Saturdays) or possibly fresh bread, meat, and produce to cook at home! See their FB page for specials and details.
Visit their website (https://www.harperfamilyfarm.com/) or FaceBook page for more details.
70 NW 130th Street, Trenton, FL, United States, Florida
(352) 614-2880
Harper Family Farm
70 Northwest 130th StreetJust 30 minutes southwest of the Treehouse Cabin Retreat (and not far from Andrews Wildlife Management Area and Chiefland) is a local farm that focuses on watermelons, hay, and red angus cattle, but also grows other kinds of produce and sells their produce, meat, and other farm goods in their farm store.
** You can even grab lunch (most Saturdays) or possibly fresh bread, meat, and produce to cook at home! See their FB page for specials and details.
Visit their website (https://www.harperfamilyfarm.com/) or FaceBook page for more details.
70 NW 130th Street, Trenton, FL, United States, Florida
(352) 614-2880
Located just 10 minutes from the treehouse, you can buy deli items, fresh made salads and sandwiches, locally made treats and more.
Deb's Deli
26628 Southeast Highway 19Located just 10 minutes from the treehouse, you can buy deli items, fresh made salads and sandwiches, locally made treats and more.
Produce stand right on the main road that has a good selection of local and regional produce at good prices.
Fresh Produce
1923 N Young BlvdProduce stand right on the main road that has a good selection of local and regional produce at good prices.
Legends Dessert Shop
Fancy sweets right in Old Town!
Local Parks and Natural Areas
The closest state park to the treehouse, beautiful freshwater spring great for swimming and kayaking, right off of the Suwannee River. Please call ahead to make sure it is open for swimming (closed during high rain events).
27 locals recommend
Fanning Springs State Park
18020 US-19The closest state park to the treehouse, beautiful freshwater spring great for swimming and kayaking, right off of the Suwannee River. Please call ahead to make sure it is open for swimming (closed during high rain events).
Another beautiful freshwater spring great for swimming and kayaking, right off of the Suwannee River. Many trails to hike as well. About 25 minutes from the treehouse. Please call ahead to make sure it is open for swimming (closed during high rain events).
66 locals recommend
Manatee Springs State Park
11650 NW 115th StAnother beautiful freshwater spring great for swimming and kayaking, right off of the Suwannee River. Many trails to hike as well. About 25 minutes from the treehouse. Please call ahead to make sure it is open for swimming (closed during high rain events).
The trail can be picked up in multiple areas including Fanning Springs, Chiefland, Trenton, and Cross City. Please see the map. Great for walking and biking, much of it is paved. 352-535-5181
Nature Coast State Trail
Nature Coast State TrailThe trail can be picked up in multiple areas including Fanning Springs, Chiefland, Trenton, and Cross City. Please see the map. Great for walking and biking, much of it is paved. 352-535-5181
Approximately 30 miles north of the Treehouse are the springs of the Santa Fe River, great for paddling and swimming. 386-454-1369
124 locals recommend
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
7450 NE 60th StApproximately 30 miles north of the Treehouse are the springs of the Santa Fe River, great for paddling and swimming. 386-454-1369
Very popular tubing river, be sure to plan ahead for a great float down the spring run! 386-497-4690. 32 miles from the treehouse.
179 locals recommend
Ichetucknee Springs State Park - Southern Entrance
U.S. 27Very popular tubing river, be sure to plan ahead for a great float down the spring run! 386-497-4690. 32 miles from the treehouse.
A privately owned park that offers kayaking and more. 29 miles, 386-454-7188
219 locals recommend
Ginnie Springs
7300 Ginnie Springs RoadA privately owned park that offers kayaking and more. 29 miles, 386-454-7188
Probably the closest "true beach" to the treehouse (30 miles), this lesser-known stretch of sand can be found by driving west towards Cross City then south towards Horseshoe beach, turning off on SE 357 and heading south to the beach. There is not much there; a boat ramp, the beach, and further down, a campground. It's serene and you may have the beach to yourself! Bring provisions with you and use the restroom before you go! Water shoes are also recommended as oyster beds are in the area. Expect to walk a trail from the parking lot to the beach. There is also a fishing pier. For more information, visit these websites.
https://www.naturalnorthflorida.com/blog/fish-shired-island-near-horseshoe-beach-in-dixie-county-florida/
http://floridaramblings.com/shiredisland.html
Shired Island Trail Beach
Southeast Highway 357Probably the closest "true beach" to the treehouse (30 miles), this lesser-known stretch of sand can be found by driving west towards Cross City then south towards Horseshoe beach, turning off on SE 357 and heading south to the beach. There is not much there; a boat ramp, the beach, and further down, a campground. It's serene and you may have the beach to yourself! Bring provisions with you and use the restroom before you go! Water shoes are also recommended as oyster beds are in the area. Expect to walk a trail from the parking lot to the beach. There is also a fishing pier. For more information, visit these websites.
https://www.naturalnorthflorida.com/blog/fish-shired-island-near-horseshoe-beach-in-dixie-county-florida/
http://floridaramblings.com/shiredisland.html
Enjoy hunting, fishing, paddling and miles of trails along the Suwannee River. This area is also part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Mature hardwood forest offers shaded trails for hiking during warmer times of the year. Please note there are no restrooms. "A Daily-Use Permit is required to enter this area, unless you have purchased a Management Area Permit. To hunt or fish you must also possess the appropriate license and permit."
Visit their website for activities and hunting information. Located on Hwy 160 off of State Road 19, between Fanning Springs and Chiefland. See this website for directions. https://ocean.floridamarine.org/WMA/entrances/?WMA=Andrews%20WMA
Andrews Wildlife Management Area
Northwest 160th StreetEnjoy hunting, fishing, paddling and miles of trails along the Suwannee River. This area is also part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Mature hardwood forest offers shaded trails for hiking during warmer times of the year. Please note there are no restrooms. "A Daily-Use Permit is required to enter this area, unless you have purchased a Management Area Permit. To hunt or fish you must also possess the appropriate license and permit."
Visit their website for activities and hunting information. Located on Hwy 160 off of State Road 19, between Fanning Springs and Chiefland. See this website for directions. https://ocean.floridamarine.org/WMA/entrances/?WMA=Andrews%20WMA
One of the largest spring fed swimming areas in Florida, this county park is located in Bell, on the east side of the Suwannee River. Explore the park by bicycle where you can connect to multiple trails, or walk the half mile boardwalk.
Visit the website for hours and more information. https://hartsprings.com/
4240 SW 86th Avenue, Bell, Florida 32619 * (352) 463-3444 * fun@hartsprings.com
30 locals recommend
Hart Springs Park
4240 SW 86th AveOne of the largest spring fed swimming areas in Florida, this county park is located in Bell, on the east side of the Suwannee River. Explore the park by bicycle where you can connect to multiple trails, or walk the half mile boardwalk.
Visit the website for hours and more information. https://hartsprings.com/
4240 SW 86th Avenue, Bell, Florida 32619 * (352) 463-3444 * fun@hartsprings.com
Another local state park featuring gorgeous freshwater springs for swimming, snorkeling, walking, etc.
29 locals recommend
Troy Springs State Park
674 NE Troy Springs RdAnother local state park featuring gorgeous freshwater springs for swimming, snorkeling, walking, etc.
Free entry to this county park which is popular for swimming, snorkeling, etc.
33 locals recommend
Little River Springs
24891 105th LnFree entry to this county park which is popular for swimming, snorkeling, etc.
Swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving.
10 locals recommend
Royal Springs Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
20016 157th LnSwimming, snorkeling, and cave diving.
Local Guides, Outfitters, Adventure Activities
A local company offering kayak rentals, kayak trips and shuttles, river cruises and more. www.suwanneeguides.com, 352-542-8331
Suwannee Guide & Outfitters
A local company offering kayak rentals, kayak trips and shuttles, river cruises and more. www.suwanneeguides.com, 352-542-8331
Offers salt water fishing, boating/fishing supplies, possibly rentals for scalloping. Also a restaurant. 352-542-9159. https://www.facebook.com/Suwannee-Marina-and-Restaurant-100638035722875
Suwannee Marina Inc
49 SE 349 HwyOffers salt water fishing, boating/fishing supplies, possibly rentals for scalloping. Also a restaurant. 352-542-9159. https://www.facebook.com/Suwannee-Marina-and-Restaurant-100638035722875
Horseback Riding Guide, Florida Beach Rides, takes groups riding at River Rise Park. https://floridabeachrides.com/river-rise-trail-ride/ 904-618-1674
52 locals recommend
O'Leno State Park & River Rise
410 SE Oleno Park RdHorseback Riding Guide, Florida Beach Rides, takes groups riding at River Rise Park. https://floridabeachrides.com/river-rise-trail-ride/ 904-618-1674
A cool and unique place for SCUBA diving.
352-528-5770. https://divebluegrotto.com/
29 locals recommend
Blue Grotto Dive Resort
3852 NE 172 CtA cool and unique place for SCUBA diving.
352-528-5770. https://divebluegrotto.com/
A very unique for snorkeling and diving! 352-528-3344, http://www.devilsden.com/
175 locals recommend
Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring
5390 NE 180th AveA very unique for snorkeling and diving! 352-528-3344, http://www.devilsden.com/
Only 30 minutes from the Treehouse! Don't miss the 8 springs in 8 miles paddle! They will rent equipment and shuttle you up river for a relaxing float/paddle (with stops to swim if you like) back to the park where you will pick up your car.
13 locals recommend
Anderson's Outdoor Adventures Santa Fe River Park
8500 FL-47Only 30 minutes from the Treehouse! Don't miss the 8 springs in 8 miles paddle! They will rent equipment and shuttle you up river for a relaxing float/paddle (with stops to swim if you like) back to the park where you will pick up your car.
Local Farms, Agritourism, Gardens
A new local winery focused on wines made from locally grown fruits! Find them on Facebook and call ahead for hours. (352) 356-2822
Cracker House Winery
522 Southeast 897th StreetA new local winery focused on wines made from locally grown fruits! Find them on Facebook and call ahead for hours. (352) 356-2822
Buy your meat from the grill right from where it is raised! You can visit the farm for a tour by appointment or shop the store during their regular open hours. They even grow the grain they feed their cattle! Find them on Facebook, or, http://www.quinceycattle.com/
(352) 469-2188
Quincey Cattle Company
2350 Northwest 120th StreetBuy your meat from the grill right from where it is raised! You can visit the farm for a tour by appointment or shop the store during their regular open hours. They even grow the grain they feed their cattle! Find them on Facebook, or, http://www.quinceycattle.com/
(352) 469-2188
A very unique botanic garden built around an old rock quarry, this is a great place to see and is even pet friendly! Located in Williston, about 45 minutes from the treehouse. Check out their website, https://cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com/ (352) 529-0055
41 locals recommend
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
4990 NE 180th AveA very unique botanic garden built around an old rock quarry, this is a great place to see and is even pet friendly! Located in Williston, about 45 minutes from the treehouse. Check out their website, https://cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com/ (352) 529-0055
A bit of a drive but if you're looking for local seafood and other farm products, it should be worth it! Find out more on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Osteenfarms/, 352-221-3793
Osteen Farms, LLC
6451 County Road 337A bit of a drive but if you're looking for local seafood and other farm products, it should be worth it! Find out more on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Osteenfarms/, 352-221-3793
Also located in Williston, this local farm offers strawberries, blueberries, peaches, sunflowers and more in season. Be sure to call ahead to find out what's in season and their hours. https://redwhiteandbluesfarm.com/, 352-529-0594
13 locals recommend
Red, White and Blues Farm
3250 NE 140th AveAlso located in Williston, this local farm offers strawberries, blueberries, peaches, sunflowers and more in season. Be sure to call ahead to find out what's in season and their hours. https://redwhiteandbluesfarm.com/, 352-529-0594
A unique meet and greet experience with elephants and other exotic wildlife! This rescue farm is about an hour drive from the treehouse so you may wish to do this on your way to or from the treehouse. Reservations for tours are by appointment so please call ahead for appointments and pricing. https://allaboutelephants.com/ 18655 NE 81st Street
Williston, FL 32696. Please call (352-528-6585) or email to find out tour times and availability for the date you would like to visit.
26 locals recommend
Two Tails Ranch
18655 NE 81st StA unique meet and greet experience with elephants and other exotic wildlife! This rescue farm is about an hour drive from the treehouse so you may wish to do this on your way to or from the treehouse. Reservations for tours are by appointment so please call ahead for appointments and pricing. https://allaboutelephants.com/ 18655 NE 81st Street
Williston, FL 32696. Please call (352-528-6585) or email to find out tour times and availability for the date you would like to visit.
Sweet Berry Farms, LLC. Open generally in May for u-pick blackberries, but please check out their Facebook Page and call ahead for hours.
Northeast 190th Avenue
Northeast 190th AvenueSweet Berry Farms, LLC. Open generally in May for u-pick blackberries, but please check out their Facebook Page and call ahead for hours.
Just 30 minutes southwest of the Treehouse Cabin Retreat (and not far from Andrews Wildlife Management Area and Chiefland) is a local farm that focuses on watermelons, hay, and red angus cattle, but also grows other kinds of produce and sells their produce, meat, and other farm goods in their farm store. You can even grab lunch!
Visit their website or FaceBook page for more details.
70 NW 130th Street, Trenton, FL, United States, Florida
(352) 614-2880
Harper Family Farm
70 Northwest 130th StreetJust 30 minutes southwest of the Treehouse Cabin Retreat (and not far from Andrews Wildlife Management Area and Chiefland) is a local farm that focuses on watermelons, hay, and red angus cattle, but also grows other kinds of produce and sells their produce, meat, and other farm goods in their farm store. You can even grab lunch!
Visit their website or FaceBook page for more details.
70 NW 130th Street, Trenton, FL, United States, Florida
(352) 614-2880
City/town information
Located about 45 minutes southwest of Old Town, "Cedar Key is a quiet island community nestled among many tiny keys on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Long admired for its natural beauty and abundant supply of seafood, it is a tranquil village, rich with the almost forgotten history of old Florida.... Cedar Key is a haven for artists, writers and “adventure” tourists, who find the unspoiled environment their inspiration. Thousands of visitors come annually to enjoy the “Old Florida Celebration of the Arts” in April, 4th of July, the October Seafood Festival, Pirate Festival, and The Stargazing Party in February. Our island provides a place for excellent fishing, bird watching, nature trails, kayaking and coastal guided tours. Federally protected sanctuaries, the Cedar Keys form a chain of barrier islands ideally suited to a vast range of migratory and shore birds, including the elusive white pelican, roseate spoonbill and bald eagle. The variety of natural habitats, from salt marshes to Indian shell mounds, makes this truly a nature lover’s paradise." Visit https://cedarkey.org/ for more information.
62 locals recommend
Cedar Key
Located about 45 minutes southwest of Old Town, "Cedar Key is a quiet island community nestled among many tiny keys on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Long admired for its natural beauty and abundant supply of seafood, it is a tranquil village, rich with the almost forgotten history of old Florida.... Cedar Key is a haven for artists, writers and “adventure” tourists, who find the unspoiled environment their inspiration. Thousands of visitors come annually to enjoy the “Old Florida Celebration of the Arts” in April, 4th of July, the October Seafood Festival, Pirate Festival, and The Stargazing Party in February. Our island provides a place for excellent fishing, bird watching, nature trails, kayaking and coastal guided tours. Federally protected sanctuaries, the Cedar Keys form a chain of barrier islands ideally suited to a vast range of migratory and shore birds, including the elusive white pelican, roseate spoonbill and bald eagle. The variety of natural habitats, from salt marshes to Indian shell mounds, makes this truly a nature lover’s paradise." Visit https://cedarkey.org/ for more information.
About 30-40 minutes from the treehouse. "A small town in Florida's Big Bend region, Steinhatchee is known for its Spanish moss, the egrets who seem in nearly permanent residence, and the abundant fishing opportunities. In addition, miles and miles of tranquil country roads and bike trails await the relaxation-driven visitor. Steinhatchee combines the ambience of the 19th century with the conveniences of the 21st century. Victorian waterfront homes line Steinhatchee shores, and footpaths and gardens decorate the surroundings. Steinhatchee is often referred to as "The Best Kept Secret in Florida." Come visit – and find out why." https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/north-central/steinhatchee/
18 locals recommend
Steinhatchee
About 30-40 minutes from the treehouse. "A small town in Florida's Big Bend region, Steinhatchee is known for its Spanish moss, the egrets who seem in nearly permanent residence, and the abundant fishing opportunities. In addition, miles and miles of tranquil country roads and bike trails await the relaxation-driven visitor. Steinhatchee combines the ambience of the 19th century with the conveniences of the 21st century. Victorian waterfront homes line Steinhatchee shores, and footpaths and gardens decorate the surroundings. Steinhatchee is often referred to as "The Best Kept Secret in Florida." Come visit – and find out why." https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/north-central/steinhatchee/
Horseshoe Beach, Florida is a small quiet village at the end of Dixie County Highway 351. It is located near the center of the Big Bend Coast.
It is 19 miles southwest of the equally quiet town of Cross City located on US-98." Named after the abundance of horseshoe crabs that were frequent in this area. https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/horseshoe-beach-florida.html (about 40 minutes from the treehouse).
6 locals recommend
Horseshoe Beach
Horseshoe Beach, Florida is a small quiet village at the end of Dixie County Highway 351. It is located near the center of the Big Bend Coast.
It is 19 miles southwest of the equally quiet town of Cross City located on US-98." Named after the abundance of horseshoe crabs that were frequent in this area. https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/horseshoe-beach-florida.html (about 40 minutes from the treehouse).
The biggest town close to the treehouse, Chiefland offers several restaurants, shopping, and essentials. Located about 20 miles south of the treehouse.
6 locals recommend
Chiefland
The biggest town close to the treehouse, Chiefland offers several restaurants, shopping, and essentials. Located about 20 miles south of the treehouse.
A cute fishing town at the mouth of the Suwannee River on the Gulf, this town offers marinas, fishing, boating, restaurants, and many cute stilt houses. A popular place to launch scalloping trips in season. Suwannee is located directly south of the treehouse, traveling south on SR 349. You can also access parts of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge from SR 349 before getting to Suwannee.
Suwannee
A cute fishing town at the mouth of the Suwannee River on the Gulf, this town offers marinas, fishing, boating, restaurants, and many cute stilt houses. A popular place to launch scalloping trips in season. Suwannee is located directly south of the treehouse, traveling south on SR 349. You can also access parts of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge from SR 349 before getting to Suwannee.
Local Resources
If you are traveling with pets and need to leave them for the day or longer while you are out exploring, Critter Camp comes recommended from a previous guest.
https://www.crittercamppetlodge.com/
(352) 463-7387
Critter Camp Pet Lodge
1832 East Wade StreetIf you are traveling with pets and need to leave them for the day or longer while you are out exploring, Critter Camp comes recommended from a previous guest.
https://www.crittercamppetlodge.com/
(352) 463-7387
You are here!
The treehouse cabin retreat is a fun getaway in nature for families, couples, friends and small groups! We are centrally located to many wonderful springs, outdoor activities and more!
Treehouse Cabin Retreat - Florida
You are here!
The treehouse cabin retreat is a fun getaway in nature for families, couples, friends and small groups! We are centrally located to many wonderful springs, outdoor activities and more!
Sightseeing
One of the closest boat ramps to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat, launch your boat on the Suwannee River and travel to the springs along the river or down to the Gulf of Mexico.
Joe Anderson Park/Boat Ramp
113 SE 155th AveOne of the closest boat ramps to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat, launch your boat on the Suwannee River and travel to the springs along the river or down to the Gulf of Mexico.
Bill's Fish Camp & Motel
63 Southeast 219th StreetBoat ramp in Suwannee on the Gulf
This 2nd-magnitude spring is a county-owned park with a man-made berm and culvert form an oblong pool that is 30-40 feet wide and 125 feet long before draining into the Suwannee River. Steps lead to the spring from both sides, and there is a platform on the south side that extends to provide a view of the vent. The water is clear and blue over the vent, and 10 feet deep. Swimming is available along with a boat ramp. There is a parking area on the south side of the spring, and a picnic shelter on the north side. Access: Take CR 349 north from Old Town, turn right on Rock Sink Church Road (CR 353) and follow it to the end."
6 locals recommend
Gornto Springs
2463 NE 816 Ave This 2nd-magnitude spring is a county-owned park with a man-made berm and culvert form an oblong pool that is 30-40 feet wide and 125 feet long before draining into the Suwannee River. Steps lead to the spring from both sides, and there is a platform on the south side that extends to provide a view of the vent. The water is clear and blue over the vent, and 10 feet deep. Swimming is available along with a boat ramp. There is a parking area on the south side of the spring, and a picnic shelter on the north side. Access: Take CR 349 north from Old Town, turn right on Rock Sink Church Road (CR 353) and follow it to the end."
Just outside of Manatee Springs State Park, this boat ramp is a great place to launch kayaks for a paddle into the park, or motorized boats for a trip on the Suwannee River.
Manatee Springs Boat Ramp
11670 Northwest 130th StreetJust outside of Manatee Springs State Park, this boat ramp is a great place to launch kayaks for a paddle into the park, or motorized boats for a trip on the Suwannee River.
A nearby boat ramp and fishing spot on the Suwannee River. Be aware parking may be limited.
Turner Point
10 River View DriveA nearby boat ramp and fishing spot on the Suwannee River. Be aware parking may be limited.