Suwannee River Valley - The Lake City Advertiser
Transcription
Suwannee River Valley - The Lake City Advertiser
Suwannee River Valley 2012 Vacation Guide NORTH FLORIDA Come Experience, the Natural Florida NORTH FLORIDA COUNTIES COLUMBIA ~ HAMILTON ~ SUWANNEE SuwanneeValley.org 3 Table of Contents features 5 Southern Sweet A story of the Heritage of Suwannee River Valley small towns by Jen Chasteen. 6 Birding 20 Dining in the Valley Yum! Read about our many local restaurants and what they have to offer. 22 Geocaching You never know what birds you might find when you visit Alligator Lake. By Brittany Rhoads. An outdoor treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS-enabled devices. 8 Canoe Trip 24 Cave Diving Travel with us down the Suwannee River. The excite- The Suwannee River Valley is the largest and most ment and serenity of the Suwannee River come alive active Cave Diving community in the United States. in this story by Brittany Rhoads. By Lamar Hires, CEO Dive Rite. 32 Real Estate in the Valley Do you love the Valley so much, you’d like to live here? We can tell you how to get started. travel information 26 Calendar of Events Great events scheduled throughout the year. 10 Raid on the Suwannee Travel back in time to a crucial era in American History as you read about one of the area’s Civil War Re-enactments. By Brittany Rhoads 12 Natural Springs We have over 70 natural springs in the Suwannee River Valley. 14 State Parks Read about the many State Parks to enjoy in the Suwannee River Valley. 34 Lodging Need a place to spend the night? We have a complete list of all Hotels, Campgrounds, Cabins and Motels in the entire Suwannee River Valley Area. 40 Parks & Recreation A complete list of the many State Parks, Golf Courses, Parks, Boat Ramps, world famous Natural Springs and so much more. 48 Map A Publication of 16 Festivals in the Valley Read about the excitement The Valley brings each year with many Festivals & Holiday Celebrations. 18 Shop in the Valley Looking for the perfect souvenir or an unique antique. We’ll tell you where to find some. Suwannee River Valley Marketing Group 386-758-1397 263 NW Lake City Ave. Lake City, FL www.SuwanneeValley.org Printed and Designed by The Lake City Advertiser 386-752-8280 358 NW Main Blvd. Lake City, FL 32055 www.ILoveMyPaper.com Heritage of Suwannee River Valley Small Towns Southern Sweet By Jen Chasteen The first thing you notice traveling around Interesting architecture from the grand Queen Anne the Suwannee Valley is that the pace of life is style to cracker shotgun houses can be found in a little bit slower and the people are a little bit the Downtown Historic Districts of Live Oak friendlier. Here you can order Southern sweet and Lake City. Or if you dare to wander the ice tea at any sit-down restaurant or walk-up back roads you’ll most likely be able to find old bar-b-que stand 365 days a year. homesteads with a tobacco barn or corncrib And if you don’t mind saddling over to that nestled in a cow field. Most locals can point you old-timer wearing the work-boots and ‘camo’ to the Lake City/Columbia County Historic hat sipping coffee at the counter or chatting-up Museum or the Suwannee Historic Museum that waitress with the warm southern smile, you where you can dig even deeper into area history. may be pleasantly rewarded with what’s to see Celebrating history and heritage are still and do or maybe a little bit of local history. important in the Suwannee River Valley. Most The small towns of Live Oak, Lake City, people still say “yes sir”, “please” and “thank Branford and White Springs all have their local you”. Around here gentlemen still hold the door jewels waiting to be discovered by the curious for ladies and the ladies will maybe, just maybe, visitor. For example, most local folks know give you their secret recipe for Southern sweet that every February there is the Battle of Olustee ice tea. Reenactment Festival in Lake City where they celebrate one of the largest Civil War battles in America. But did you know that Lake City at one time was called Alligator Town after an Indian chief? Or that you can visit Falling Creek to view one of North Central Florida’s only Quail Heights Country Club’s waterfalls or O’Leno State Park to walk over the 27-hole swinging bridge, admire the rustic buildings championship constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corp layout features in the 1930s or walk over the rocky ruins of the a challenging pioneer town’s gristmill? mixture of water, White Springs has a rich history as a turn-ofsand traps and rolling hills to the-century resort town where people flocked provide golfers to soak in the ‘healing waters’ of the springs. a variety of You can enjoy the remnants of this by-gone era challenges. by enjoying traditional Southern dishes at the for more information historic Telford Hotel or sampling the view of please visit us at the Suwannee River from the storied Springwww.quailheightscc.com house. For the outdoor adventurers, canoe tours are available for our area rivers. But you can always do as the locals do and go spring-hopping: Pack a picnic lunch and a few gallons of sweet tea and cruise your way from Falmouth Springs to Little River Springs or from Rum Island to Tel: (386) 752-3339 | www.quailheightscc.com Ichetucknee Springs. 161 SW Quail Heights Terrace | Lake City, FL 32025 “The Gateway to Florida Golf” SuwanneeValley.org 5 Birding By Jacqui Sulek W ith a full Saturday ahead of me it is not difficult to decide where to go Birding. Alligator Lake Recreation Area (http:// www.columbiacountyfla.com/ParksandRecreation.asp) provides 1000 acres of varied habitats including wetlands and open water guaranteeing more species of birds than just about anywhere in the Suwannee River Valley. The entrance off Country Club Road just East of Lake City is marked with a Great Florida Birding Trail Sign. Parking my car by the pole barn I glance out across the wet meadow and pick out some winter visitors, several meadowlarks and a pair of American Kestrels. The resYou never know what ident Bald Eagle birds you might find flies over with nesting material. when you visit As I arrange my Alligator Lake. day pack and grab the bins and scope I pick out the distinctive call of bluebirds. My heartbeat quickens to the honking of 20 Sandhill cranes passing overhead. I holler “welcome back!” The Montgomery trail is a 3 mile loop. After I cut through a short stretch of woods I get my first opportunity to look north from the dike. I am rewarded when I set up my scope to scan the open shallow water and the muddy edges: Wilson’s snipe, Greater Yellowlegs, Killdeer and a small flock of tiny shorebirds. The Coots are back in large numbers and I pick out several Herons (Great Blue, Little Blue, and Tri-colored), both Great and Snowy Egrets, White and Glossy Ibis and Pied-billed Grebes. I spot the first ducks of the day, a half dozen Black-bellied Whistling ducks and 2 Wood Ducks. At the next stop I hit the duck jackpot: Northern Shovelers, Ring-necked, Greenwinged Teal, Blue-winged Teal, Mottled Duck, 6 Gadwall and American Wigeon. Towards mid-morning I retrace my steps (I have only walked a mile or so) and scout for some songbirds along the edges of the woods. Shifting my focus to the trees on the way back I pick up a Golden-crowned Kinglet traveling with a small flock of Ruby-Crowned Kinglets. I am treated to a handful of Warblers including Yellow-Rumped, Black and White, Yellow-Throated, Common Yellow-throat, Orange-crowned, Pine, Palm and a spectacular male Wilson’s. Phoebes call from their high perches, House-wrens rattle along the grassy edges, Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers chase each other zigzagging across the trail. An occasional glance skyward provides great looks at Northern Harriers, Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks. I hesitate to enjoy the Wood Storks in the distance. What a great morning! Alligator Lake is a wonderful place to come birding any time of year. It falls within latitudes far enough to the north that birds wintering in Central and South America will nest here in the spring and summer. Similarly, it is far enough south so that many of our northern nesters will spend the winter here. During both fall and spring migration between the many distinct habitats and the fluctuation of water levels there are seemingly endless possibilities for what birds might drop in to refuel. Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 SpringsRUs.com 7 SuwanneeValley.org 7 Canoe Trip By Brittany Rhoads on the Suwannee River I woke up directly next to the Suwan- nee River at Stephen Foster State Park. As I peered through the window, the sun’s rays, shining on the wooden planks through the leaves of the trees surrounding us invited me outside. My best friend, Leah, emerged from the cabin, greeting me with a refreshed smile as she took a steady breath of fresh air. Being that we had rented our canoe the day before, floating away was all that was left to do. As we navigated into the peaceful current, the water mirrored the moss hanging delicately from the trees, which resided on the water’s edge. The river was low and the sides of the banks rose up from 20, to 30 feet high. Exposed on the steep banks were chunks of limestone trickling down the slope. Along the winding clear red river, nature flowed, flew and ran about. Off in the distance, a deer was basking in the water. At the sight of our canoe, she sprang from the river, leaping onto the shore with water still covering her hooves. Shortly after, we passed Cypress tree roots that spiraled from the shore intertwined with limestone and dirt. Then the sound of rushing water touched my ears. As the moment of rapid water approached, I gripped my paddle and prepared to use it to avoid a large rock down the slight drop. It was exuberant and completely doable. As we moved closer to the large coral 8 rubble bar, my paddle hit the bottom with every stroke, undoubtedly skimming the coral piled high by Native Americans long ago. “Can we stop here for a second to see if we can find any fossils?” Leah expressed. I responded, “You read my mind!” I was already preparing to grab hold of the protruding branch that would bring us to a halt. As the canoe came to a stop, we both gazed at the red coral fossil. We both knew that smaller pieces, chipped off by the Indians to create weapons and tools, were plentiful beneath us. We plunged our eager hands past the surface of the water, straight into the heap of flint resting along the bottom. After examining a few fossils, I settled with one that looked like it had indeed been shaped by human hands long ago. As I turned to Leah, with a grin on my face, to show her the fossil I had found, I saw in her hands a fossil shaped like an arrow head. She lightly tipped the canoe from left to right in celebration of her significant finding. After a full day of venturing down The Suwannee River, we stopped at the Woods Ferry hub to camp in a screened in pavilion. As the sun began to set, I looked at the canopy of trees above. I closed my eyes, let out a big sigh and continued to soak in the pleasant feelings consuming me. American Canoe Adventures White Springs, FL We Cater To Your Adventure.... Canoeing, Kayaking, Vacations, Camping, Weekend Getaways, Sales and Service. RESERVATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED TO SERVE YOU BETTER. Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 386-397-1309 www.aca1.com MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND E 2012 SuwanneeValley.org 9 Raid On The By Brittany Rhoads When I walked up to Raid on The Suwanee, I immediately saw the vendors set up under white tents. The first store I went into had swords, antique utensils, books and the main source of food supply called hard tack, a small cracker ingested by soldiers during The Civil War. I purchased a birch beer at Ole Doc Bells Home made soda stand. The woman dressed in a dress appropriate to The Civil War period filled my glass bottle up from a wooden barrel, then capped the bottle with a cork. Then, I looked through Mrs. Sue Bonifay’s seamstress shop called “sew long ago” and went to the blacksmith for various types of furniture. Other tents had antiques and cigar box instruments. As I entered the realm of the campgrounds, I really began to feel as though I was in a time when my existence was absent from consciousness. Small triangular white tents filled the ground equiped with lanterns, kitchens and fire places. Men were dressed in natural colored long sleeve shirts and pants with suspenders. Women, some knitting, were dressed in long dresses most likely wearing a corset. The trumpets sounded and the crowd gravitated from the campgrounds towards the battle field. The battle broke out upon the 50 acres of hills and trees. Horses speed through the land thunderously clashing into the opposing side. The canons began to fire shaking the earth , causing the crowd 10 to jump as each explosion released from the tips of the canons. One of the Confederate battalions began to move in on the right of the battle field as the colonel yelled “fill the gaps.” The soldiers spaced themselves accordingly The approaching 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War (2 0112015) offers the current generation of Americans a most important opportunity to know, discuss, and commemorate this country’s greatest national crisis, while at the same time exploring its enduring relevance in the 21st century. Locally Florida’s most significant Civil War battle, Olustee Battle, will be commemorated during the weekend of February 17-19, 2012, as Lake City plays host to the 34th Annual Olustee Battle Festival and 36th Annual Battle of Olustee Re-enactment which is held at the actual site of the event in 1864. and on command and at random, fired away at the Yankee soldiers. As the Confederacy advanced, the Yankees were surrounded on all sides. Firing back and forth at each other, both sides fought for their lives. The Confederates, wearing no specific color or coordination, hooted and hollered as they continued to close in on the Yankees. And the Yankees, directly in front of the observation point wore red boots and gray pants with a stripe down the leg. Some of them had red shirts on and others of higher ranking wore a blue jacket decorated with medals. The action was all over the field. Suddenly, the Rebels seized a Yankee canon and the Yankee victory began to slip out of Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Suwannee reach. Nonetheless they continued to defend what was left of what they claimed of their battle grounds. This was the beginning of the end as the Yankee soldiers began to fall in greater numbers. The Yankees discontinued their fight and held the white surrender flag high. To end the show, all of the soldiers who acted in the battle lined up, surrounding the crowd, in front and to the right, to shoot gunpowder into the air above our heads. As I scanned the faces lined up and dressed for battle, I realized that even though they were playing a part, people just like them young and old were involved in the death and triumph of war. Just as that thought had come and passed, the soldiers raised their guns on command and everyone covered their ears. All at once the soldiers fired. As I was leaving the battlefield a group of Confederate soldiers of all ages met me on the trail. As they passed one of the men tipped his hat and said in his country accent, “good eveni’n mam.” I was truly taken back in time to a crucial era in American history. SuwanneeValley.org 11 Springs Natural In The Valley W hile many outdoor enthusiasts venture into North Florida in an attempt to tame the mighty Suwannee or power through a kayak adventure at Big Shoals State Park, others just enjoy the leisure that the many springs in the area provide. In the Suwannee River Valley region, the Ichetucknee Springs is typically considered the crown jewel. 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. From the end of May until early September, tubing is the conveyance of choice on the springs, though visitors also enjoy snorkeling, canoeing and just enjoying the wildlife of North Florida. Be prepared, though – spring, summer, fall or winter, the Ichetucknee waters are 72 degrees ‘year round. If you’re a little more on the exploration side – and hey, who isn’t – 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. If you’re looking to cave dive, look no further – Peacock Springs features one of the longest underwater cave systems in the U.S. Those looking for a little more adventure, however, should look no further than Big Shoals State Park, which features the largest whitewater rapids in Florida. Boasting a Class III Whitewater classification, paddlers in kayaks and canoes looking for a thrill often descend on the park, though land-lovers can find more than 28 miles of wooded trails to get lost in. For more information log on www. SuwanneeValley.org Portals to the Very Heart of Florida.... The North Florida Springs Alliance (NFSA) is an Organization for Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, Troy Springs State Park, Madison Blue Springs State Park, and Lafayette Blue Springs State Park. WES SKILES PEACOCK SPRINGS STATE PARK INTERPRETIVE TRAIL Be taken on a virtual cave dive and learn about the labyrinth of rooms and tunnels beneath your feet as you walk the 1.05 mile trail. The NFSA sponsors several exciting events including Old Timers Day at Troy Springs, and Advanced Skills Diving Clinics at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park. The NFSA provides support to parks by educating visitors, volunteering, hosting events and raising funds for specific park projects. They play a vital role supporting Floridaʼs state parks, ensuring that our natural, cultural and historical resources are protected for future generations. With help from members and volunteers the NFSA has constructed the stateʼs premier interpretive hiking trail. To learn more about the North Florida Springs Alliance go to: www.northfloridaspringsalliance.org 12 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 www.northfloridaspringsalliance.org For more information, contact PEACOCK SPRINGS STATE RECREATION AREA Peacock Springs Road, Luraville, FL (386) 776-2194 fun adventures in natural florida “That’s Hamilton County Jewel of the Suwannee” We are home to Campsites on the Suwannee, Mile upon Mile of Hiking and Mountain Bike Trails, Bicycle Tours, Canoeing, Horse Back Riding and so much more! And did you know, we have one of the largest gopher tortoise preserves in North America? Call us! 2012 EVENTS March 17 ................................................ Wild Azalea Festival • White Springs, FL March 16-18 .................................Withlacoochee Spring Trail Ride • Jennings, FL May 4-5 ............................................................... Championship Rodeo • Jasper, FL May 25-27 .............................................. Florida Folk Festival • White Springs, FL June 9 ......................................... 3rd Annual Wild Blackberry Festival • Jasper, FL July 4 ......................................................................... July 4th Celebration • Jasper, FL October 26, 27, 31 .......................................... Haunted Old Jail Tours • Jasper, FL November 1-3...........................................Rural Folklife Days • White Springs, FL November TBA .................................Withlacoochee Fall Trail Ride • Jennings, FL December TBA ........................ Christmas Festival of Lights • White Springs, FL December 7....................... White Springs Christmas Parade • White Springs, FL December 14 ................................................Jasper Christmas Parade • Jasper, FL Contact us at 386-792-6829 or visit our website at www.HamiltonCountyFlorida.com SuwanneeValley.org 13 State Parks M any venture to the Suwannee River Valley region for a piece of Natural Florida. If you have trouble finding it, look no further than the litany of state parks in the region. With O’Leno State Park in Columbia County, Suwannee River in Suwannee County and Stephen Foster in Hamilton County and Olustee in bordering Baker County, there are more than enough outdoor activities for any adventurer. 14 14 O n the border of Columbia and Alachua counties, O’Leno State Park offers a variety of opportunities for family outings, including camping, fishing and hiking on many miles of trails in a beautiful Civilian Conservation Corpsera atmosphere. Located on the Santa Fe River, the park has ample room for group gatherings with large picnic areas, grills and pavilions. The park features sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps and sand hills, and was one of Florida’s first state parks. Located 13 miles west of Live Oak in Suwannee County, the Suwannee River State Park presents a unique look at the history of the river while offering numerous activities for families to enjoy. Five trails – ranging from a quarter-mile to 19 miles – loop through surrounding woodlands, providing scenic views of the majestic tea-colored Suwannee River. It’s on these treks that visitors to the area will be able to see remnants from the past, including one of the state’s oldest cemeteries and a paddle-wheel shaft from a 19th century steamboat. Other activities include fishing, picknicking and canoeing. The park also has a full-facility campground with cabins for those wanting to stay overnight. The towering pines and oaks that surround Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park offer a unique point of view on “Natural Florida.” Located in White Springs, the 888-acre park is named in honor of the legendary composer of the same name, the author of “Old Folks at Home,” Florida’s state song. Whether it’s taking a hike on the nature trail, canoeing down the Suwannee River or listening to Foster’s songs from the park’s 97-bell carillon tower, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park offers an unmatched experience to its visitors. The park Suwannee SuwanneeRiver RiverValley ValleyVacation VacationGuide Guide2012 2012 museum is home to numerous paintings, Park. The park commemorates the site of Florida’s largest Civil War battle, which as well as almost a dozen dioramas that took place depict scenes more than from some of 145 years Foster’s most ago and popular songs. The Suwannee Valley is very “Horse People” friendly. saw more And don’t There are numerous state parks such as O’Leno State than 10,000 forget to visit Park and Suwannee River State Park that have soldiers Craft Square, accommodations for horse trailers, lodging and from the where you can miles of equestrian trails. Each offers magnificent Confederate witness demviews of the natural wonders of North Central and Union onstrations of Florida. Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park and armies blacksmithMcCulley Farms, both privately owned, also offer clash near ing, stainedriding trails and lodging for horse and human alike Olustee. The glass making for overnight stays. Historic McCulley Farms in site became and quilting. Hamilton County is renowned for its meandering the state’s And, of trail ride along the beautiful Withlacoochee River. first hiscourse, it’s toric site in tough to 1912, when mention state many Civil War veterans still attended parks in the area without discussing the Olustee Battlefield Historic State reunions. A re-enactment is held every February to remember those who lost their lives during the battle and honor their sacrifices. During the year, the park is open to visitors who can enjoy a picnic or walk along the trails complete with interpretive signs that describe the events of the battle. Horse Trails Aplenty O’Leno RIVER RISE PRESERVE STATE PARK State Park Family Camping • Picnicking Group Camping • Hiking • Biking McCulley Farms Home of the Withlacoochee Trail Ride and Gateway to Some of Florida’s Most Scenic Trails 386-938-3011 • 386-938-1147 www.mcculleyfarms.com * 25 Miles of Marked Trails * Cabin Rentals * Camping & Trail Rides * Truck & Trailer Art Graphics & Much More Primitive Camping • Swimming 3019 McCulley Farm Rd. Jasper, FL 32052 Canoeing • Equestrian Trails • Fishing 386.454.1853 www.FloridaStateParks.org/oleno “Old Times They’re Not Forgotten” 15 mins. from I-75 and 20 mins. from I-10 SuwanneeValley.org 15 Festivals In The Valley Orlando’s theme parks may get most estival Blackberry F r, FL Jaspe Highway 90, where you of the publicity, but the real fun happens can find the Wellborn Blueberry Festival, throughout the year in North Florida. held annually on the first Friday and SatWhether it’s the historical re-enactment urday in June in Suwannee County. The of the Battle of Olustee, the fun Bluefestive event features dozens of vendors berry Festival in Wellborn, the annual that specialize in various arts and crafts, Florida Folk and Wild Azalea Festivals and food vendors provide an eclectic fare in White Springs, or a smattering of – contrary to popular thought, though, Christmas events throughout the area, blueberry is not an ingredient in every there’s always something Blueberry Festival item. The two-day event going on. features various activities, Typically the excitement Wellborn, FL including a parade, bluebegins with Florida’s largest berry bake-off, raffles and Civil War re-enactment door prizes, kids’ games and every February. More than the ever-popular blueberry 30,000 visitors annually depancake breakfast. scend upon Lake City and While many would Olustee for a weekend that consider it only a brief stop peers into the area’s history, on the way to their ultimate one filled with bloodshed destination, White Springs and war. A memoboasts two of the largest rial service at the Oaklawn festivals in the area. The Cemetery kicks off the events before the Florida Folk Festival, which takes place downtown Lake City festival – complete every May at the Stephen Foster Folk Culwith hundreds of vendors specialture Center State Park, features some of izing in glass, woodworks and the best music that Natural Florida has to food – culminates into the large offer. The three-day celebration of music, battles Saturday and dance, stories and food brings natural Sunday at the Olustee Florida to life, and more than 300 perforBattlefield Historic State mances can be seen during the Memorial Park. Each year, thousands of Day weekend. The Wild Azalea Festival, re-enactors portray solmeanwhile, takes place each March as a diers fighting for both the celebration of the spring bloom of wild Confederate and Union azaleas. Highlights from the event include armies. The historical musical performances, arts and crafts, re-enactment also and other outdoor recreational activities. features cavalry and There’s also the crowning of the Little cannons. Miss Azalea. A trip down U.S. While Florida rarely sees the snows of its northern counterparts, that Olustee Festival • Lake City, FL 16 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 A Rich Heritage of Arts & Culture am. Live entertainment is throughout doesn’t mean the Christmas spirit isn’t most of the day along with a Car/Truck alive and well in the area. In fact, Lake Show. The lighted night time parade beCity, Live Oak and White Springs host gins at 6:00 pm. large-scale ChristBring the family for a mas events as great day of shopping, soon as the winter eating and just plain chill is in the air. fun. The Festival of For a majestic Lights in historic evening of viewing of Lake City begins Holiday lights don’t on Thanksgiving miss out on Stephen weekend when the Foster Folk Culture entire downtown Center State Park is transformed Festival of Lights in into a fairyland as White Springs and thousands of lights Stephen Foster State Park Spirit of the Suwanilluminate the park White Springs, FL nee Music Park in and downtown Suwannee County boast over ten million businesses. Santa is in his house during lights for a fantastic display. Both of them this period and the second weekend in offer interactive events for the whole famDecember snow comes to downtown, plenty of children’s activities and the day ily’s enjoyment. ends with a parade with over 100 entries. In Suwannee County, Christmas on the Square takes place in downtown Live Oak, also offering dozens of vendors selling some of the most unique arts and crafts around, the perfect Christmas present for the hard-to-shop-for family member. The Arts & Crafts show opens at 8:00 The Battle Continues Lights in the Valley J o u r n e y B a c k To Every February June 1 - 2 2012 • • • • • Arts & Crafts Food Vendors Country Store Live Entertainment Talent Contests Bake-Off and Tasting Party on Friday Pancake Breakfast and Parade on Saturday Andrews Square, Downtown Wellborn For Directions or Info 386-963-1157 www.WellbornCommunityAssociation.com Call for more information 386.758.1312 Tourist Development Council or visit http://www.olusteefestival.com SuwanneeValley.org 17 Shop Where to in the valley F inding the right gift at a big box store can be difficult at times. Sure, the nearest supercenter may have thousands and thousands of items, but when you’re looking for something unique, you need something a little more local. Welcome to North Florida, the Suwannee River Valley region, home to numerous local specialty shops and the oldfashioned mom and pop stores. Whether you’re traveling through Live Oak, Jasper, White Springs or Lake City, you’ll find a number of stores that offer unique trinkets that may be the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy for loved one. That special lady friend of yours enjoy getting her nails done? Or is she preparing for that upcoming summer season and has complained lately about the lack of a base tan? A gift certificate to Sunsations in Jasper may be the perfect gift! How about the cowboy who needs a new pair of boots, or a new belt buckle that’s shaped like the state of Texas? Oh, it’s definitely available at Smitty’s Western Store in Lake City, which specializes in western clothing and apparel. That cousin of yours have peculiar tastes? Try McHales Specialty Store in Live Oak! The store’s walls are littered with numerous fantasy-style swords and other self-defense items, but the shop also specializes in Cuban cigars, tobacco pipes, dragon paraphernalia, designer purses, glass and jewelry. Of course, if you’re not really sure what you’re looking for – you’re waiting for that “know it when you see it” moment 18 Downtown Lake City – you can always check out Downtown Lake City, which is home to numerous consignment shops, antique and specialty stores. It’s a one-stop locale for many, and stores are easily within walking distance of one another. Fort White in Columbia County and Branford in Suwannee County are off the beaten path but have hidden treasures within their boundaries as well! Lake City’s Only Full Service Hotel Group Rates, Extended Stay and Corporate Discounts • 127 Spacious Guest Rooms and Suites • Jacuzzi Suites • Indoor Heated Pool, Sauna and Hot Tub • Full-Service Breakfast; Lounge with Full Bar • 37” HDTV’s with most HD channels in town! • Full Banquet and www.HILakeCityFL.com Catering Services • Free WiFi Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 213 SW Commerce Drive 386.754.1411 SuwanneeValley.org 19 Where to Dine Dining opportunities in the Suwan- in the Valley doubtedly be showing one of the games of the week. Located at 1445 SW Main Blvd. nee River Valley region are in abundance, #170 near downtown Lake City, Phish but if you’re looking to get off the beaten Heads remains a top Lake City dining path of the national chains and look for experience because of its varied menu – something a little more down home, you’ll find an assortment of fish, chicken, you’re in the right place. soups, salads and sandwiches, including the ever-popular world-class wings. Phish Gondolier Italian Restaurant Heads offers parking for RVs and is close and Pizza in Lake City features fine to the 423 mile marker on Interstate 75. Italian dining and is only a short trip Ph: 386-755-0490 down the road. Opened in Lake City in 2010, Gondolier has quickly become one Costa del Sol. If your consider of the hottest attractions for local and variety the spice of life, Mexican cuisine out-of-town diners. A trip to Gondolier must be a staple of your diet. Located at will reveal dozens of pizza combinations, 2260 West U.S. Highway 90, Costa del white and red both, as well as strombolies Sol is Lake City’s most and calzones. If a pizzapopular Mexican resstyle entree isn’t taurant, offering all the what you’re lookessentials you’d come to ing for, Gondolier expect – tacos, burrioffers more than 50 tos, and enchiladas, as menu items above well as house specialthe famous pizza pie ties. Seafood special– pasta dishes such ties abound as well, as fettuccine alfredo including the Burrito Costa del and chicken marsala, Sol, a specialty burrito filled with shrimp, hot and cold sub sandwiches and gyros. scallops, octopus, crab, green peppers, Located at 2281 W US Hwy 90 Lake City. onions and mushrooms, served with salsa. Ph: 386-758-4220 And if you’re lucky, a mariachi band may Phish Heads. Looking to add be on hand to perform during dinner. something a little more phamous to your Ph: 386-755-9090 lifestyle? How about some phamous phish Mike’s Café & Grille. One or phried phood? Look no further than of Lake City’s premier “come as you are” Phish Heads in Lake City, one of Lake fine dining restaurants, Mike’s Cafe & City’s most popular eateries for the past decade thanks to its sports bar-style feel Grille specializes in turning ordinary into extraordinary – it’s hard to recommend and numerous televisions that will un20 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 just one menu item. Whether it’s the Ahi Tuna dinner, Sriracha Tenders or Chicken Florentine, Mike’s Cafe & Grille will definitely leave you satisfied, lunch or dinner. Mike’s Cafe & Grille is located in the Westfield Plaza facing I-75 and the 427 mile marker. Take a break from the road and enjoy homemade soups, amazing fresh salads. They don’t have an alcohol license but BYOB and there is no corking fee. Located at 426 SW Commerce Dr. ever-popular hog “chitlins,” the restaurant Lake City. Ph: 386-961-9911 also serves nightly specials. Stoudemire’s Stoudemire’s Restaurant. A offers its own line of barbecue sauces, which are available for purchase, as well as short jaunt down the road in Live Oak, Stoudemire’s Restaurant in downtown is Lillie G’s pure and natural lemonade. Ph: a long-time fixture in a new location. Lo- 386.330.4944 cated at 203 Ohio Ave. N (129 North) Live Oak. The popular eatery recently moved to its new location after several years of being located on County Road 49. In addition to boasting some of the best barbecue in the area – ribs and wings – and the Players Club Seafood Bar & Grill. On US 90, a mile east of I-75 exit 427 is Players Club Seafood Bar & Grill, a new Lake City hot spot. Featuring Seafood, Steaks and Raw Bar, Players Club always has something going on, and at affordable prices. Skilled chefs prepare weekly specials that include Live Maine Lobster, Prime Rib and sizzling Fajitas. A full liquor bar, surrounded by sports décor and 18 large screen TVs ensures each patron’s enjoyment of their favorite televised games. A Cyber Sweepstakes area, including a VIP room complements the full entertainment experience at Players Club. Ph: 386.438.5200 Fat Belly’s Bar-N-Grill. Those passing through the area in White Springs should do themselves a favor and stop at Fat Belly’s Bar-N-Grill in the historic town. Barbecue is the mainstay – the ribs and shrimp shouldn’t be missed – but they are open early for breakfast as well for those who plan to enjoy a day outdoors. The breakfast menu includes a southern breakfast of pancakes, eggs and grits! Located at 16750 Springs Street in White Springs. Ph: 386-367-2040 SuwanneeValley.org 21 GEOCACHING The handheld GPS indicates you’re just a few hundred feet away. You push through the bushes with your free hand as you keep your eye on the device, each stride taking you one step closer to your goal. What it is, you have no idea, but it’ll be worth the two-mile kayak trip down the tea-colored Suwannee River and the half-hour trek through its wooded shoreline. Up ahead, you spot a small box jutting from behind a tree. While the box is significant, it’s the content that counts. You step over a fallen limb, kneel and brush the dirt from the top of the box. You open the lid – in your mind, there should be a blinding light coming from the box, like something out of an Indiana Jones movie – open the lid and find an assortment of Star Wars figures. Unlike the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, you’re never really sure what you’re going to find at the end of a geocaching trek. But for most people, it’s the hunt that counts. Think of geocaching as a modern-day treasure hunt, but rather than crudely drawn maps, buried treasure chests and pirates, geocachers use technology and satellites to lead them to their “treasure.” The adventure begins as soon as a geocacher inputs a specific set of coordinates into a GPS device, which will direct them toward their final destination. The White Springs Bed ‘n Breakfast Oaks ‘N Pines RV Campground Located in the Historic Kendrick House, built circa 1905. We are in walking distance to the Suwannee River and Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center. Special rates available for family retreats and/or reunions. RV Camping, the way it was meant to be! www.whitespringsbnb.com 386-397-4252 Make It. Bake It. Grow It. Discounts: AARP • Good Sam Passport America • Military & Others Every Saturday Morning Lake DeSoto at Wilson Park Downtown All Sites: 20/30/50 Amps Wi-Fi • Cable Full Hook Ups Pull Thrus Healthy Local Food, Art & Music 3864 N US Hwy 441 Lake City, FL 32055 EXIT 303 OFF I-10 386-719-5766 or visit market.lcfla.com 22 386-752-0830 GPS- Lat. N30.14.34, Long. W82.38.38 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 ally thousands of active caches that can be treasure could be a few hundred feet from home, or require a trek through the sought at any time. Of course, that doesn’t mean you beautiful scenery of the Suwannee Valley should venture out in the deepest part of Wilderness Trail. And with many cell phones these days a nature trail your first time out - luckhaving a built in GPS, geocaching is more ily for beginners and experts alike, there are varied difficulties in geocaching. This accessible than ever. means, you can make your treks as easy or According to geocaching.com, there as difficult as you like. Only feel like takare more than 1.5 million active geocaches in the world - that number grows ing a quick stroll down the road? There’s a cache for you. Want to get daily - and more than 5 million active geocachGEOCACHING is a real-world off the beaten path, feel the ers. Finding an active outdoor treasure hunting gravel under your feet and geocache in your area is as game. Players try to locate hope you can remember simple as logging onto the hidden containers, called where the main highway website, registering for a geocaches, using GPS- is? Yup, there’s a cache for free account and entering enabled devices and then you, too. Even the most green your zip code - you’ll be share their experiences online. explorer can find adventure tracking down your first with geocaching, and is cache within minutes. And with the various nature trails, hik- great for solo treks and family outings. Getting started is as easy as signing onto ing paths and wooded areas around the Suwannee River Valley region, geocaching www.geocaching.com and grabbing the activities are in full swing. There are liter- nearest GPS device. SuwanneeValley.org 23 Cave Diving World Class By Lamar Hires, CEO Dive Rite Troy Springs is a beautiful fresh- worthy of an open water dive. The real lasting attraction to this water spring on the banks of the Suarea is the cave diving. The water in the wannee River. I first visited it in 1979 springs has to come from somewhere so after learning to SCUBA dive. I lived in it flows from underground by the milJacksonville, Florida and the first thing lions of gallons a day from the caves into any new Florida diver does is pick up the the springs Dive Guide to and then into Florida. There the rivers. I is a section on soon became the springs of a cave diver the Suwannee to safely enjoy Valley area so the underI took off on ground diving an adventure the area has inland to the to offer. I springs of the enjoyed it so Suwannee much I moved River. It didn’t here in 1982 take long to and continue fall in love to enjoy the with the cryslocal diving. tal clear water North Florida of the springs offers a very and the history diverse type that goes with of cave diving it. Troy has experience for the remains of the beginner a Confederto adventure ate Civil War seeker. paddle wheel Pictured above is Lamar Hires, CEO and cave diving Cave diving boat that was expert of Dive Rite, Inc., located in Lake City, FL. requires speran aground Lamar has been a cave instructor since 1984. cial advanced during the war to keep the Union Army from taking training to enjoy the sport and to access it. We explored the river by boat to find the many State and private parks in the springs everywhere and few of them area that have been established around 24 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 the natural beauty of the springs and the underground rivers that feed them. There are many instructors in the area that make a living by introducing people from around the world to the many cave diving sites and a number of dive stores that make sure divers have the right equipment for the sport and access to sites. North Florida is a destination spot for international cave divers because it offers a balance of • North Florida has adventure, the largest and most safety and active cave diving convenience community in the not found United States. anywhere • There are over 70 else in the world. freshwater springs Believe in the Suwannee me I know River Valley. because I have dived all over the world and still enjoy coming home to the North Florida caves. For an advanced open water diver, cave training can take up to seven days depending on how far back into the underground you wish to venture. Classes are modular so you can decide on how much training you want to do to enjoy the parks. Information on instruction and the area is easily accessible on the web. 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. Cave diving is an adventure sport, with proper training and skills is safely enjoyed by thousands of certified cave divers and the Suwannee Valley area is the number one destination spot. Article submitted by Lamar Hires CEO and former Chairman and Training Chairman of Dive Rite, Inc. For more information you may contact Lamar at www.diverite.com or www.nsscds.org CAVE EXCURSIONS open 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week. YOUR CAVE DIVING HEADQUARTERS Within Minutes of Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park Guided Dives ■ Training Courses ■ Lodging Facilities ■ Fleet of Rental Tanks ■ We Custom Blend any TriMix ■ (Bank 32% Nitrox, 21/30 TriMix, 50%, O2 ,Air) “In the Heart of Cave Country” Phone: (386) 776-2299 20338 180th Trace Live Oak, FL 32060 SuwanneeValley.org 25 January Suwannee River Valley 8 16 Calendar of 2012 Stephen Foster Day • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration • 386-397-2310 White Springs, FL Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration • 386-344-9915 Lake CIty, FL 27 Elvis Tribute Artist Contest • 386-364-1683 28 Hamilton Co. Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook Off • 386-792-1300 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL TeddyMacElvis.com Jasper, FL [email protected] February 29 3-5 4 9 Gospel Brunch with Elvis • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL TeddyMacElvis.com Kids Music Camp • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Primitive Arts Day • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Damaris Carbaugh, Gospel Music • 386-658-5291 Advent Christian Village Dowling Park, FL Olustee Festival • 877-635-3655 18-19 Battle of Olustee Reenactment • 877-635-3655 March 17-18 3 3-4 16-18 Olustee Park Lake City, FL OlusteeFestival.com Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park • 15 miles east of Lake City, FL See ad pg. 15 battleofolustee.org Race the Tortoise 5K • 386-454-1853 O’Leno State Park High Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/oleno North Florida Home & Patio Show • 386-438-9635 Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City, FL rotarycluboflakecity-downtown.com Withlacoochee Trail Ride – Spring • 386-938-3011 See ad pg. 15 or 386-938-1147 Jasper, FL Hosted by McCulley Farms McCulleyFarms.com Florida Gateway Pro Rodeo • 386-752-8822 Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City, FL columbiacountyfair.org 26 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 March Events 17 22-25 30-31 April 31 5-7 8 May 16 Wild Azalea Festival • 386-397-2733 Downtown White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Springfest • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com MADDFEST Spring Arts Festival • 386-965-9256 Olustee Park Lake City, FL maddfest.com Springs Celebration • 386-454-1853 O’Leno State Park High Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/oleno Antique Tractor & Engine Show • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Easter Sunrise Service • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Dixieland Jazz & Southern Buffet • 386-658-5557 Advent Christian Village Dowling Park, FL 19-21 Wanee • 386-364-1683 27-29 Kids Music Camp • 386-364-1703 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL waneefestival.com Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL MusicLivesHere.com 2-5 Suwannee River Jam • 386-364-1683 4-5 Championship Rodeo • 386-792-2725 5 11-13 25-27 25-28 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL suwanneeriverjam.com Jasper, FL [email protected] Pangea Missing River Adventure Race • 386-454-1853 O’Leno State Park High Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/oleno Purple Hatters Ball • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Florida Folk Festival • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL See ad pg. 9 floridafolkfestival.com Memorial Day Getaway • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Continued SuwanneeValley.org 27 Calendar Continued June Suwannee River Valley 1-2 8-9 9 14-16 July 29 4 Calendar of Events 2012 Wellborn Blueberry Festival • 386-963-1157 Friday Noon – 9pm & Saturday 7am – 5pm wellborncommunityassociation.com Wellborn, FL Tropical Nights Rock the Suwannee • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com 3rd Annual Wild Black Berry Festival • 386-792-2725 Jasper, FL [email protected] Suwannee River Jubilee (Gospel) • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com 4th of July Getaway • 386-364-1683 June 29 – July 2, 2012 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Fireworks on Lake DeSoto • 386-758-1312 Fireworks start at 9:20pm Historic Downtown Lake City, FL springsrus.com Branford Fireworks • 386-935-1146 Fireworks start at 9:00pm Hatch Park Branford, FL 7 August 21 28 See ad pg. 17 TownofBranford.com Dog Days of Summer • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Antique Arts & Collectables Day • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster 10-12 Kid’s Music Camp • 386-364-1683 11 Craft Rendezvous • 386-397-2733 31 Labor Day Getaway • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster August 31 – September 3, 2012 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 September 1 Healing Arts Day • 386-397-2733 8 Literacy Day • 386-454-1853 7-9 14-15 October 29 6 13 18-21 19-21 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster O’Leno State Park High Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/oleno Stephen Foster Old Time Music Weekend • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Smokin’ Pig BBQ Fest • 386-752-8822 Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City, FL columbiacountyfair.org Olustee Civil War Expo • 877-635-3655 Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park 15 miles east of Lake City, FL floridastateparks.org/olustee See ad pg. 15 Jeanie and Stephen Auditions • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Suwannee River Challenge and Marathon • 386-397-1309 Canoe and Kayak race aca1.com • [email protected] Magnoliafest • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Stephen Foster Quilt Show and Sale • 386-397-2733 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Alligator Warrior Festival • 386-454-1853 O’Leno State Park High Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/oleno • alligatorfest.org 26-27 Haunted Old Jail Tours • 386-792-2725 31 Haunted Old Jail Tours • 386-792-2725 Jasper, FL [email protected] Jasper, FL [email protected] Trunk or Treat • 386-792-2725 November Downtown Jasper, FL [email protected] 1-3 Rural Folklife Days • 386-397-2733 2-4 Kid’s Music Camp • 386-364-1683 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com 2-10 Columbia County Fair • 386-752-8822 9-10 Stephen Foster Dulcimer Retreat • 386-397-2733 Columbia County Fairgrounds Lake City, FL columbiacountyfair.org Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster Continued SuwanneeValley.org 29 Suwannee River Valley November Calendar Continued 9-11 12 Calendar of Events 2012 Bear Creek Music & Arts Festival • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL bearcreekmusicfestival.com White Springs Veteran’s Day Celebration • 386-397-2310 White Springs, FL Lake City Veteran’s Parade • 386-752-5001 (VFW) 11am VA Hospital through downtown. Lake City, FL 17-18 23-24 Raid on the Suwannee (Civil War Re-enactment) • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com See article pg. 10 Old Tyme Farm Days • 386-364-1683 24 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Suwannee Lights • 386-364-1683 Continues thru December 24, 2012 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com 30 Town of White Springs Christmas Parade • 386-397-2310 White Springs, FL [email protected] Festival of Lights • 386-397-2733 Continues thru December 31, 2012 December Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park White Springs, FL floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster 1 Christmas On The Square • 386-362-3071 Memorial Park Downtown Live Oak, FL SuwanneeChamber.com Christmas Parade • 386-362-3071 Downtown Live Oak, FL 8 SuwanneeChamber.com Festival of Lights • 386-752-3690 9am Olustee Park Historic Downtown Lake City, FL lakecitychamber.com Lake City Snow Day • 386-752-3690 Downtown Lake City, FL 9am LakeCityChamber.com Christmas Parade • 386-752-3690 6pm Downtown Lake City, FL lakecitychamber.com 14 City of Jasper Christmas Parade • 386-792-1300 Jasper, FL [email protected] Withlacoochee Trail Ride – New Year’s • 386-938-3011 or 386-938-1147 Jasper, FL Hosted by McCulley Farms McCulleyFarms.com See ad pg. 15 28 30 New Year’s Eve Trail Ride • 386-364-1683 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak, FL musicliveshere.com Trail Ride Continues thru January 1, 2013 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Traveling North Florida? We have over 2,000 rooms. With three Exits on I-75 and two Exits on I-10, you can make the most of your travel plans by staying at one of our convenient hotels. Come and experience “The Valley” with us. Tube the Itchtucknee, attend one of our festivals, take in a round of golf, or simply enjoy fantastic cuisine at one of our many restaurants. WE’VE GOT SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Columbia County Lake City • Fort White 386-758-1312 TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL SpringsRUs.com SuwanneeValley.org 31 Real Estate • Columbia • Hamilton • Suwannee When you think Florida, do you In North Florida you can experience all four seasons and community festivals think beaches? Come let us show you the to celebrate them all. We other side. Conveniently have everything from located between Jackequestrian communities sonville and Tallahassee, to air parks, rolling yet nestled among small pastures to sandy white towns with friends you river beaches. State have yet to meet. parks filled with history North Florida offers from day’s gone by, the best of both worlds. many of which are Whether you are looking located on the historic for a Large Farm, a Small Suwannee River. We are also the Ranch or a Weekend Get spring capital of the world, if diving is of Away on one of our beautiful rivers or interest to you. From horses to boating, just simple living at it’s best. Our Members are dedicated to fulfilling the American dream of Home Ownership and are committed to our community. Blake Construction Co. Phone: 386-754-5810 Don Reed Construction Boyette Plumbing Phone: 386-752-4072 Bryan Zecher Construction, Inc. Phone: 386-752-5389 Phone: 386-752-0776 Phone: 386-752-8653 Cal-Tech Testing, Inc. Phone: 386-755-3633 Phone: 386-752-7578 S L K Construction, Inc. Glenn I. Jones, Inc. Phone: 386-365-3646 Hall’s Pump & Well Service, Inc. Phone: 386-752-0405 Phone: 386-752-1854 High Mark Construction Causseaux, Hewett and Walpole, Inc. Phone: 386-487-0394 Concept Construction of N. Florida North Florida Glass Phone: 352-331-1976 O’Neal Contracting, Inc. Home Depot Phone: 386-755-0761 Phone: 386-961-9900 Phone: 352-333-3233 Sherwin Williams Sikes Enviroseal Insulation Phone: 386-438-8542 The Buck Stove Place, Inc. Phone: 386-752-7010 Whiddon Construction Co. Phone: 386-754-7367 W. L. Hunter, Insurance Phone: 386-752-6990 For a complete list of members visit: www.buildcolumbiacounty.com or call: 386-867-1998 32 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 “Those who live here love it . . .” looking for privacy or entertaining friends, North Florida has something to offer everyone. A place where you will know your neighbors, your city officials, your children’s teachers, your local law enforcement officers and Looking for your better yet call them friends. A place North Florida Dream Home? where your opinions matter. Come on This five bedroom with six and half baths and see what small town life has to offer where our community is our first priority may be perfect! 3773 heated sq. ft. on 4.43 acres. OR contact the Columbia and your voice is always heard. County Builders’ Association Article submitted by Poole Realty, Inc. (www.BuildColumbiaCounty.com) For more information on the area Call 800for a custom builder. 557-7478 or www.PooleRealty.com “Way Down Upon the Suwannee River” Helping You Buy Or Sell In Suwannee, Columbia, and Hamilton Counties • Residential • Commercial • Waterfront • Farms • Lands • Subdivisions Located in downtown Live Oak at: 127 E. Howard Street www.poolerealty.com Phone: 386-362-4539 Toll Free: 1-800-557-7478 Email: [email protected] SuwanneeValley.org 33 The Smoakhouse Ranch Bed & Breakfast 4321 SE CR 500 Branford, FL 32008 • 386-935-2662 www.SmoakHouseRanch.com • River Run Campground 3739 US Hwy 27 Branford, FL 32008 • 386-935-6553 www.RiverRunCampgroundFlorida.com Sandy Point Motel & Campground 29685 59th Dr. Branford, FL 32008 • 386-935-3824 www.Facebook.com/Pages/Sandy-Point-MotelCampground /114107768625348 No. of Rooms/Cabins WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms Tent Sites RV Sites Restaurant Pool Picnic Tables Pets Allowed Laundry Dumping Station Campfire Permitted Branford, Florida Meeting Space Lodging Suwannee River Valley • • • • • • • • 4 • • • • • 3 • • • • • • • Steamboat Dive Inn • • 503 US Hwy 27 Branford, FL • 386-935-2283 www.SteamBoatDiveInn.com 12 16 Dowling Park, Florida Advent Christian Village 11057 CR 136 Dowling Park, FL 386-658-5200 • 1-800-371-8381 www.SuwanneeConference.net • • • • • • • 34 • • • • 14 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 16 • • • • • • • • • • • • 14 See ad pg. 2 Fort White, Florida Ichetucknee Family Canoe & Cabins Campground 8587 Elim Church Rd. Ft. White, FL 32038 386-497-2150 • 1-866-224-2064 www.IchetuckneeCanoeandCabins.net Ichetucknee Springs Campground 245 SW Breckenridge Lane Ft. White, Fl • 386-497-2285 www.IchetuckneeSpringsCampground.com • • High Springs, Florida O’Leno State Park See ad pg.15 410 SE Oleno Park Rd. High Springs, Fl • 386-454-1853 www.FloridaStateParks.org/Oleno Jasper, Florida Florida Gateway Resort 7516 SE 113th Blvd. Jasper, Fl • 1-855-75-G8WAY www.GatewayFL.com Gibson Park 6884 SW CR 751 • 386-792-1631 • http://HCRecreation.com 34 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 • • McCulley Farms Campground 6415 NW CR 143 Jasper, FL 386-938-3011 • 386-938-1147 www.mcculleyfarms.com • • See ad pg.15 Motel 8 • Seven Oaks Inn • • • • 7928 SR 6 W Jasper, Fl • 386-792-1255 8182 SR 6 W Jasper, Fl • 386-792-1987 No. of Rooms/Cabins WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms Tent Sites RV Sites Restaurant Pool Picnic Tables Pets Allowed Meeting Space Laundry Jasper, Florida (Cont’d) Dumping Station Campfire Permitted Hotels • Motels • Cabins Camping • RV Sites • • 16 55 Jennings, Florida Budget Lodge Motel 1846 Hamilton Avenue Jennings, FL • 386-938-5544 Jennings Outdoor Resort Campground 2039 Hamilton Ave. Jennings, FL • 386-938-3321 www.jenningsoutdoorresort.com • • •• • • • • • Lake City, Florida America’s Best Inn • 339 SW Commerce Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-755-6300 America’s Best Value Inn • 60 • • • • 98 3598 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-3801 www.BestWesternFlorida.com • • • • 82 Budget Inn • • • • 100 • • • • 100 3835 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-4664 www.LakeCityAmericasBestValueInn.com Best Western 117 NW Knights Ave. Lake City, FL • 386-752-7720 Cabot Lodge 3525 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-1344 www.CabotLodgeLakeCity.com Casey Jones RV Park 185 SW Arrowhead Ter. Lake City, FL • 386-755-0471 http://CaseyJonesRVPark.com See ad pg.3 Comfort Suites 3690 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-9028 www.ComfortSuites.com See ad pg.3 Country Inn & Suites 350 SW FL Gateway Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-754-5944 www.CountryInns.com • • • • • • • • • • 94 • SuwanneeValley.org 60 35 Cypress Inn 2987 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-9369 Days Inn at I-10 • 3430 N US Hwy 441 Lake City, FL • 386-758-4224 www.DaysInn.com Days Inn of Lake City • 3144 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-9350 www.DaysInn.com 2764 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-3545 • 178 SW FL. Gateway Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-752-7891 www.EconoLodge.com • 120 20 • • • • • 62 • • • • 89 • • • • • 49 • • 89 • • 127 • 6 22665 35th Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-935-0844 www.IchetuckneeHideawayCottages.com 3010 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-1648 www.InAndOutRVPark.com • • Jameson Inn Jasmine Garden Inn • • • Lake City RV Park 2463 SW Main Blvd. Lake City, FL • 386-755-0110 36 • • • 352 NW Knights Ave. Lake City, FL • 386-755-4308 www.JasmineGardenInn.com 4743 US 441 N Lake City, FL • 386-752-9131 www.LakeCityCampground.com • • • 285 SW Commerce Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-758-8440 www.JamesonInn.com Lake City Campground No. of Rooms/Cabins • 62 Ichetucknee Hideaway Cottages In & Out RV Park WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms • • 3783 US Hwy 90 W • 386-755-1707 http://NorthFloridaMotels.com Tent Sites RV Sites • • • • Gateway Inn Restaurant • 45 • 181 SW Howell St. Lake City, FL • 386-752-2279 See ad pg.37 Fairfield Inn & Suites 538 SW Corporate Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-466-1014 www.Marriott.com/GNVLC See ad pg.3 450 SW Florida Gateway Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-487-0580 www.LakeCity.HamptonInn.com See ad pg.18 Holiday Inn & Suites 213 SW Commerce Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-754-1411 www.HiLakeCityFL.com • • E-Z Stop RV Park Hampton Inn & Suites • • Driftwood Motel Econo Lodge Pool Picnic Tables Pets Allowed Meeting Space Laundry Dumping Station Lake City, Florida (Cont’d) Campfire Permitted Lodging Continued Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 • • • • • • • 6 • • 55 • • 28 • 7 Milton’s Country Store & Campground 12049 N US 441 Lake City, FL • 386-755-6975 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miltons-CountryStore-Restaurant-Campground/158363477662 • • No. of Rooms/Cabins WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms Tent Sites RV Sites Restaurant Pool Picnic Tables Pets Allowed Meeting Space Laundry Dumping Station Campfire Permitted Lake City, Florida (Cont’d) • • • Motel 8 • • 25 Never Dunn’s RV Park • • • 4427 SW SR Lake City, FL • 386-752-8933 929 SW Old Wire Rd. Lake City, FL • 386-755-4945 See ad pg.22 Oaks N Pines RV Park 3864 US Hwy 441 N Lake City, FL • 386-752-0830 www.OaksNPines.com October Bend RV Park • • • • • 6 2960 SE October Rd. Lake City, FL • 352-317-1326 www.OctoberBendRV.com • • • • • • Pineywoods Lodge • • 27 • 15 2016 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-8334 Quail Heights Lodge See ad pg.5 161 SW Quail Heights Ter. Lake City, FL • 386-752-3339 www.QuailHeightSCC.com Staying is Believing Winner of the Guest Satisfaction Platinum Award. • Complimentary Hot & Cold Continental Breakfast • Complimentary Internet (Wired & Wireless) • Mini-Refrigerator & Microwave in all rooms • Indoor/Pool Spa • Non-Smoking Hotel • 32” Flat Screen TV • Meeting Space -up to 60 Located Behind Travel County RV, Exit 427 538 SW Corporate Dr. Lake City, FL 386-466-1014 888-249-3919 Marriott.com/GNVLC SuwanneeValley.org 37 Rodeway Inn No. of Rooms/Cabins WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms Tent Sites RV Sites Restaurant Pool • • • • 60 Red Roof Inn Picnic Tables 414 SW Fl. Gateway Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-752-6693 www.RedRoof.com 3340 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-752-6262 www.Ramada.com Pets Allowed • • • 64 Ramada Limited Meeting Space Dumping Station Lake City, Florida (Cont’d) Laundry Campfire Permitted Lodging Continued • • 44 Scottish Inn • • 34 Step-In Food Mart • 3954 SW SR 47 Lake City, FL • 386-752-6450 www.AmericanMotel.Travel • • • • • • 94 Traveler’s Inn • 386-752-7808 • • 32 • • 50 • • 50 • • 63 205 SW Commerce Dr. Lake City, FL • 386-755-5203 www.RodewayInn.com 2916 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-0230 4039 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-754-3666 Super 8 13703 S Hwy 441 Lake City, FL Travelodge 13771 S Hwy 441 Lake City, FL • 386-752-7582 www.TraveLodge.com Travelodge 3711 US Hwy 90 W Lake City, FL • 386-755-9306 www.TraveLodge.com Live Oak, Florida Best Western Suwannee River Inn 6819 US Hwy 129 Live Oak, FL • 386-362-6000 www.BestWestern.com Camp Weed & Cerveny Conference Center See ad pg.21 11057 Camp Weed Pl. Live Oak, FL • 386-364-5250 www.CampWeedFlorida.com Econo Lodge 6811 N US Hwy 129 Live Oak, FL • 386-362-7459 www.EconoLodge.com Holiday Inn Express 6694 US Hwy 129 Live Oak, FL • 386-362-2600 www.HiExpress.com Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park 3076 95th Dr. Live Oak, FL • 386-364-1683 See ad pg.52 www.MusicLivesHere.com • • • • • • • • • • 62 • • 52 • • • • 69 • • • • • • • • • • • • • 32 Sunshine Inn 827 W Howard St. Live Oak FL • 386-362-7828 http://NorthFloridaMotels.com 38 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 25 3631 201st Path Live Oak, FL • 386-362-2746 www.FloridaStateParks.org/SuwanneeRiver No. of Rooms/Cabins WiFi/Internet Shower Sites Smoking Rooms Tent Sites RV Sites Restaurant Pool Picnic Tables Pets Allowed • • • • 5 Meeting Space Laundry Dumping Station Suwannee River State Park Campfire Permitted Live Oak, Florida (Cont’d) Olustee, Florida Ocean Pond Campground 24874 US Hwy 90 Lake City, FL • 386-752-2577 www.ForestCamping.com/Dow/Southern/osccmp.htm • • • • • • • • Wellborn, Florida Black Bear Cabin 1 12428 CR 137 Wellborn, FL www.FlaBlackBearCabin.com White Springs, Florida America’s Best Value Inn 3119 CR 136 White Springs, FL • 386-963-2501 www.AmericasBestValueInn.com American Canoe Adventures See ad pg.8 & Camping 10315 SE 141st Blvd. Wht Springs, FL • 386-397-1309 www.aca1.com Kelly’s RV Park 142 NW Kelly Ln White Springs, FL 386-397-2616 www.KellysRVPark.com Lee’s Country Campground 2264 NW Thunder St. White Springs, FL 386-397-4132 www.LeesCountryCampground.com Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park See ad pg.23 11016 Lillian Saunders Dr. White Springs, FL 386-397-2733 www.FloridaStateParks.org/StephenFoster • • • • 40 • • • • • • • • • • • • 2 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 5 Suwannee River Motel 16 16502 Spring St. White Springs, FL • 386-397-2822 Suwannee Valley Campground 786 NW Stephen Foster Dr. White Springs, FL 386-397-1667 www.SuwanneeCampground.com Telford Hotel 16521 River St. White Springs, FL • 386-397-2000 www.telfordhotel.net White Springs Bed & Breakfast 16630 Spring St. White Springs, FL • 386-397-4252 www.WhiteSpringsBnB.com See ad pg.22 • • • • • • • • • • • 6 • • SuwanneeValley.org SuwanneeValley.org 6 39 39 Suwannee River Valley Parks & Recreation Columbia County Columbia County Alligator Lake Recreation Area Five Points Park Location 420 SE Alligator Gl. Lake City, FL Location Lake City, FL Phone 386-719-7545 Phone 386-719-7545 Website www.ColumbiaCountyFla.com/ ParksandRecreation.asp Website Aquatic Complex Location 372 W Duval St. Lake City, FL Phone 386-755-8195 Website www.Columbia.K12.Fl.US/ AquaticComplex/Aquatic.html www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Located on the corner of Old Valdosta Highway and Laverne Avenue. Ichetucknee Springs State Park Location 12087 SW US Hwy 27 Fort White, FL Phone 386-497-4690 Website www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings Bethlehem Park Location 157 SW Bethlehem Ave. Ft White, FL Lulu Community Center Phone 386-438-4340 Location 205 SW Community Drive Lulu, FL Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Phone 386-758-2136 • 386-752-7499 Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp 386-454-2526 Deep Creek Community Center Location 11934 N US Hwy 441 Lake City, FL Phone 386-719-7568 • 386-755-6975 Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Falling Creek Falls Location Lake City, FL Phone 386-719-7545 Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Located on County Road 131 – just north of the 441/I-10 exchange. 40 Mason City Community Center Location 11110 S US Hwy 441 Lake City, FL Phone 386-758-1394 • 386-752-1494 Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp O’Leno State Park Location 410 SE O’Leno Park Rd High Springs, FL Phone 386-454-1853 Website www.floridastateparks.org/oleno See Our Ad - Pg. 15 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 “The Natural Florida” Columbia County Columbia County Olustee Battlefield Historic St. Park Winfield Community Center & Recreation Area Location US 90 Olustee, FL Phone 386-758-0400 Website www.floridastateparks.org/olusteebattlefield Location 1324 NW Winfield St. Lake City, FL Phone 386-719-7509 • 386-397-0917 386-752-5643 Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp River Rise Preserve State Park Location 410 SE O’Leno Park Rd High Springs, FL Phone 386-454-1853 Website www.floridastateparks.org/riverrise Hamilton County Baseball Complex Location Richardson Community Center Phone Jasper, FL 386-792-3098 Location 255 NE Coach Anders Lane Lake City, FL Website www.hcrecreation.com Phone 386-754-7095 • 386-754-7096 Bellville Park Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Location Jasper, FL Phone 386-792-3098 South Columbia Fort White Community Center Website www.hcrecreation.com Location 17579 SW SR 47 Fort White, FL Big Shoals State Park Phone 386-497-3089 • 386-497-2321 Location Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp Phone 386-397-4331 Website www.floridastateparks.org/bigshoals 11330 CR 135 White Springs, FL Springville Community Center Location 3710 NW Suwannee Valley Rd Lake City, FL Gibson Park Phone 386-752-5484 • 386-752-4205 386-755-1099 Location Website www.columbiacountyfla.com/parksandrecreation.asp 6884 SW County Road 751 Jasper, FL Phone 386-792-1631 Website www.hcrecreation.com/gibsonpark.aspx Continued SuwanneeValley.org 41 Hamilton County Holton Creek Suwannee County Charles Springs Location 8295 SW 68th Drive Jasper, FL Location 15465 237th Drive Live Oak, FL Phone 386-362-1001 Phone 386-362-1001 Website www.srwmd.org Website wwww.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Hunting is for persons that are mobility-impaired. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park Location US 41 N White Springs, FL Phone 386-397-2733 Website www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster See Our Ad - Pg. 23 Take SR 51 to CR 250 towards Dowling Park approximately 10 miles to 225th Rd. Turn left onto 225th Rd. travel approximately 6 miles until the road makes a 90 degree to the left - turn right onto the dirt road which is 237th Dr. follow the dirt road until it intersects with another dirt road - 152nd St. Spring head is to the right, boat ramp is to the left. Douglas Park Location 1101 Douglas Street SW Live Oak, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Suwannee County Azalea Park Harrell Heights Park Location 626 6th Street SW Live Oak, FL Location 902 Winderweedle St. NW Live Oak, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Baker Park Ivey Park Location 1318 Marion Street SW Live Oak, FL Location 614 Ivey Memorial Park Dr Branford, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Phone 386-935-1146 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Dive shack, bait shop, grills. Access to the Suwannee River Billy Jernigan Pool Facility Location 1301 S Walker Avenue Live Oak, FL John H. Hale Community Park & Recreation Center Phone 386-362-3004 • 386-364-4700 Location 215 NE Duval Street Live Oak, FL Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Little River Springs 42 Location 24891 105th Lane O’Brien, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Suwannee County Jr. Woman’s Club Freedom Park Location 1310 11th Street SW Live Oak, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Suwannee County William Guy Lemmon Memorial Park Location Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Royal Springs Location 20091 157th Lane O’Brien, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Boat ramp access is 3003. Suwannee River Greenway at Branford Branford, FL Suwannee River Valley Golf Courses Quail Heights Country Club Location 161 SW Quail Heights Terr Lake City, FL Branford, FL Phone 386-752-3339 Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Website www.quailheightscc.com Practice facility and 27 holes of golf offer flexibility and convenience for our members and guests alike. 3 nine-hole courses, each are par 36. See our ad - Pg. 5 Location Suwannee River State Park 3631 201st Path Live Oak, FL Suwannee Country Club Phone 386-362-2746 Location Website www.floridastateparks.org/ suwanneeriver Phone 386-362-1147 9 holes over 2,936 yards with a par of 36. Open to the public. 8 miles from the center of Live Oak, FL Location Wellborn Community Park Location 4th Avenue Wellborn, FL Phone 386-362-1001 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park Location Peacock Springs Road Luraville, FL Phone 386-776-2194 Website www.floridastateparks.org/ peacocksprings See Our Ad - Pg. 12 Williams Park Location Dowling Park, FL Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org 7932 US Hwy 90 Live Oak, FL Suwannee River Valley Golf Course Location 8055 US Hwy 129 S Jasper, FL Phone 386-792-1990 9 holes over 3,084 yards with a par of 35. Open to the public. 12 miles from the center of Live Oak, FL. The Country Club of Lake City Location 717 NW Fairway Drive Lake City, FL Phone 386-752-2266 Website www.thecountryclubatlakecity.com Beautiful Championship Par 72, 18 hole golf course. Clubhouse is a wonderful setting for both casual and formal dining. Banquet facilities can accommodate over 300 people. Pro shop. SuwanneeValley.org 43 Suwannee River Valley River Access Alapaha River Suwannee River Alapahoochee Launch Roline Launch Mile Marker 22.0 Mile Marker 202.0 GPS 30 35.98, -83 04.38 GPS 30 33.85, -82 43.51 From Jennings, travel east on CR 150; cross the Alapaha River; turn left onto NW 72 Court and follow to river. Jennings Bluff Launch Mile Marker 17.0 GPS 30 34.79, -83 02.35 From Jennings, travel S on US 41 to NW 25 Lane; turn left; travel E to NW 82 Court & the entrance into the Suwannee River Water Management District’s Jennings Bluff tract; turn left and follow road to canoe launch. Suwannee River From White Springs, travel north on SE CR 135; cross over SE CR 6 onto NE 180 Boulevard (Woodpecker Route); travel north to NE 25 Way; turn right and follow road to ramp. Turner Bridge Ramp Mile Marker 197.7 GPS 30 31.46, -82 43.69 From White Springs, travel north on SE CR 135; cross over SE CR 6 onto NE 180 Boulevard (Woodpecker Route); travel north to NE 38 Trail; turn right and follow road to ramp. Cone Bridge Road Ramp Stephen C. Foster State Park Ramp Mile Marker 186.5 Mile Marker 242.0 GPS 30 26.71, -82 40.25 30 49.61, -82 21.68 From Lake City, travel north on US 441 to NW Cone Bridge Road; turn left and follow road to ramp. GPS From Fargo, travel south on US 441 to CR 177; turn left and travel to Stephen C. Foster State Park. Big Shoals Tract Launch Griffis Fish Camp Ramp Mile Marker 177.1 Mile Marker 235.0 GPS 30 21.19, -82 41.24 GPS 30 47.07, -82 26.78 From White Springs, travel north on CR 135 to SE From Fargo, travel south on US 441 to CR 177; turn 94 Street (Godwin Bridge Road); turn right and folleft and travel 10 miles northeast; Griffis Fish Camp low road to Big Shoals. is on left. Fargo Ramp Suwannee River Wayside Park Ramp Mile Marker 221.0 Mile Marker 171.0 GPS 30 40.91, -82 33.61 GPS 30 19.53, -82 44.35 The boat ramp is on the northeast side of US 441 and the Suwannee River. 44 From White Springs, travel south on US 41 to the river; the ramp is on the south side in the town park. Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Boat Ramps & Launches Suwannee River Suwannee River Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center Deese-Howard Ramp State Park Launch Mile Marker 168.3 GPS 30 19.64, -82 46.16 Mile Marker 147.3 GPS 30 24.88, -82 57.78 Canoe launch is in Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs. See ad pg. 23 From Live Oak, travel north on CR 795 to 24 Street; turn right on 24 Street; travel east to 107 Road; turn left and follow road to boat ramp Blue Sink Launch Gibson Park Ramp Mile Marker 163.2 Mile Marker 135.4 GPS 30 20.43, -82 49.19 GPS 30 26.26, -83 05.61 From Jasper, travel southwest on SW CR 249 (road From Live Oak, travel northeast on CR 136; cross over I-75 to 27 Road; turn left and continue north to becomes SW 67 Drive) to SW CR 751; turn left and boat ramp is on the right in Gibson Park. 64 Terrace; follow road to canoe launch. Woods Ferry Tract Launch Road 141 Ramp Mile Marker 158.0 Mile Marker 130.4 GPS 30 21.72, -82 52.10 GPS 30 24.84, -83 09.55 From Live Oak, travel north on US 129 to CR 136A; turn right; travel east to 57 Drive; turn left and continue north to Woods Ferry Path; follow Woods Ferry Path to canoe launch. Suwannee Springs Launch Mile Marker 150.0 GPS 30 23.65, -82 56.03 From Live Oak, travel north on US 129 to 93 Drive; turn right; travel north to 32 Street; turn right and follow to park area. From US 90, turn right onto NE Myrrh Street; cross the Withlacoochee River (road becomes CR 141); turn right on SW 74 Street; turn right on SW 44 Lane; travel south to SW 77 Street; turn left and follow to boat ramp. Suwannee River State Park Ramp Mile Marker 127.7 GPS 30 23.26, -83 10.13 From Live Oak, travel west on US 90 to CR 132; turn right; cross railroad tracks and turn into Suwannee River State Park entrance. Spirit of Suwannee Music Park Ramp Boundary Bend Ramp Mile Marker 148.5 Mile Marker 115.6 GPS 30 24.36, -82 56.95 GPS 30 15.68, -83 14.27 From Live Oak, travel north on US 129 to Spirit of Suwannee Music Park; turn left on 95 Drive and follow road to boat ramp. See ad pg. 52 From Dowling Park, travel west on CR 250; turn left on NW CR 101; travel north on NW CR 101 (road becomes SE Waccamaw Avenue); turn right on SE Boundary Bend Trail and follow to ramp. SuwanneeValley.org 45 Suwannee River Santa Fe River Dowling Park Ramp High Springs Ramp Mile Marker 113.0 Mile Marker 27.6 GPS 30 14.69, -83 14.94 GPS 29 51.12, -82 36.70 The boat ramp is on the north side of CR 250 at the Suwannee River. From High Springs, travel N on US 41 to NW 210 Lane; turn left and follow road to boat ramp. Sims Landing Ramp River Rise Ramp (North Lafayette County) Mile Marker 111.2 GPS 30 13.65, -83 14.44 Mile Marker 24.6 GPS 29 50.65, -82 37.85 From High Springs, travel N on US 27 crossing Santa From Dowling Park, travel west on CR 250; turn left Fe River & the boat ramp is on the right. on NW CR 251; travel south on NW CR 251; turn left on NW Sims Landing Road and follow to boat Poe Springs Ramp ramp. Mile Marker 22.5 Christian Tract Launch GPS Mile Marker 110.2 GPS 30 12.90, -83 14.59 From High Springs, travel S on US 41 to CR 340; turn right & travel 3 miles W; the entrance to Poe Springs is on the right. From Live Oak, travel southwest on CR 250 to 225 Road; turn left; travel south to 136 Street; turn right and travel west; crossover 233 Road onto Christian Path; follow road and turn right on Shirley Springs Trail; follow road to canoe launch. Charles Spring Ramp Mile Marker 106.5 GPS 30 10.01, -83 13.86 29 49.59, -82 39.21 Rum Island Ramp Mile Marker 20.7 GPS 29 50.01, -82 40.71 From Ft. White, travel S on SR 47 to CR 138; turn left; travel E to SW Rum Island Terr.; turn right & follow road to ramp. Ginnie Springs Ramp Mile Marker 19.1 From Live Oak, travel south on SR 51 to 152 Street; GPS 29 50.27, -82 42.23 turn right on 152 Street; travel west crossing 237 Drive and boat ramp is in the county park. From Ft. White, travel south on SR 47 to CR 340; turn left; travel east to NE 60 Avenue; turn left and Santa Fe River follow road to park. Worthington Springs Ramp Mile Marker 49.1 GPS 29 55.41, -82 25.64 The boat ramp is on the northwest side of SR 121 and the Santa Fe River. Bible Camp Road Ramp Mile Marker 37.1 GPS 29 55.61, -82 33.58 Santa Fe River County Park Ramp Mile Marker 15.8 GPS 29 51.87, -82 44.40 From Ft. White, travel S on SR 47; cross Santa Fe River & the boat ramp is on the left in the county park. Hollingsworth Bluff Ramp Mile Marker 15.3 GPS 29 52.16, -82 44.65 From High Springs, travel north on US 41 to SE From Ft. White, travel S on SR 47 to SW HollingSprite Loop; turn right; travel north to SE Bible Camp sworth Street; turn right and follow road to ramp. Street and follow road to boat ramp. 46 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Santa Fe River Santa Fe River Santa Fe River Ramp Sandy Point Campground Ramp Mile Marker 12.6 Mile Marker 2.1 GPS 29 53.80, -82 45.80 GPS 29 54.55, -82 51.90 From Ft. White, travel S on SR 47 to CR 138; turn right; travel W to NE 100 Street; turn right & follow road to NE 25 Avenue; turn left; follow road to NE 108 Place; ramp is at the end of the road on the left. From Branford, travel east on US 27; turn right on US 129; travel south to 296 Street; turn right; travel west on 296 Street; Sandy Point Campground is on the left. Ellie Ray’s River Landing Ramp Ira Bea Oasis Ramp Mile Marker 10.7 GPS 29 54.77, -82 46.47 Mile Marker 1.3 GPS 29 53.91, -82 51.99 From Ft. White, travel south on SR 47 to CR 138; turn right; travel west to NE 2 Way; turn right and follow road to boat ramp on the right. From Branford, travel east on US 27; turn right on US 129; travel south; cross the Santa Fe River; travel to NW 110 Street; turn right and follow road to boat ramp. William Guy Lemmons Memorial Park Ramp Wanamake Ramp Mile Marker 2.4 GPS 29 54.76, -82 51.63 From Branford, travel E on US 27; turn right on US 129; travel S to 296 Street; turn right and William Guy Lemons Memorial Park is on the left. Mile Marker 0.1 GPS 29 53.32, -82 52.67 From Branford, travel E on US 27; turn right on US 129; travel S; cross Santa Fe River; travel to NW 102 Pl.; turn right; travel W to NW 39 Ave.; turn right & follow road to boat ramp. Area Sports Centers Southside Sports Complex First Federal Sportsplex Location 1963 SW Bascom Norris Dr. Lake City, FL Location 1201 Silas Drive Live Oak, FL Phone 386-719-7545 Phone 386-362-3004 Website www.suwanneeparksandrecreation.org 10 – 200’ baseball fields (4 lighted), 3 – 300’ baseball fields (1 lighted), 8 – 200’ girls softball fields (all lighted), 4 – 300’ adult softball fields (all lighted), 7 – soccer fields of assorted sizes (5 lighted), lighted & paved parking lots. Located on Silas Dr., behind the Suwannee Middle School. Suwannee Parks & Recreation offices are located at the park. Parks & Recreation Legend Baseball/Softball Canoeing Handicap Access Restrooms Basketball Dining/Restaurant Hiking/Trails RV Hookups Bicycling Diving Nature/Bird Watching Skate Park Boat Ramp Equestrian Riding/Trails Picnic Tables Soccer Boating Fishing Playground Swimming Cabins/Lodging Golf Primitive Camping Tennis SuwanneeValley.org 47 Wi t 41 h l aco o 6 6 chee Riv er Suwannee River Sate Park 9 24 Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Live Oak Coliseum Live Dowling Park Peacock Springs State Park Su wa U.S. Highways State Roads Rivers 48 Oak 136 Wellborn Suwannee 49 252 129 Interstates SR 0 10 129 136 U.S. HWY Jasper 75 n Hamilto 10 129 41 Jennings Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 nn ee Riv er Branford 47 n wa Su 441 n ee Columbia Big Shoals State Park 41 Wh it Stephen Foster State Park eS pri ng s r ve Ri 13 5 10 Lake City 90 Columbia County Fair Grounds 100 247 137 75 441 47 Ich etu c kn e Ichetucknee Springs State Park r ive eR Ft. White 41 O’Leno State Park Sa nt aF e Ri ver SuwanneeValley.org 49 50 Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 SuwanneeValley.org 51 www.MusicLivesHere.com Full Service Resort Located just north of Live Oak, Fl. is a one-of-a-kind music park and premier campground nestled on the shady banks of the historic, tea-colored Suwannee River in North Florida. We host a variety of events throughout the year. In addition to these events, the park offers live music during the week and a natural amphitheater for outdoor music festivals. Canoeing • Putt-Putt Golf • Disc Golf Inground Swimming Pool • Equestrian Facilities Music Hall •Facility Rentals Home of the Suwannee River Jam Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground 386.364.1683 800.224.5656 www.MusicLivesHere.com 52 Location Conveniently Located to I-10 & I-75. Suwannee River Valley Vacation Guide 2012 Distance to 4 Major Cities 37 Miles - Valdosta, Ga. 64 Miles - Gainesville, Fl. 77 Miles - Tallahassee, Fl. 79 Miles - Jacksonville, Fl.