Suwannee River Rules County! 30 Fantastic Activities

Suwannee probably comes from an Indian word, “Sawani,” meaning “echo river.” Since the Suwannee River creates the northern, southern, and western borders, the county is almost an island! It is actually in the shape of half a heart (aawwww…) Even more water flows through Suwannee County; both the Ichetucknee River and the Santa Fe River …

11 Must-Do Activities in Historic Bradford County

One of Florida’s smallest counties, Bradford County, consists of 300 square miles. But they have packed plenty to do into their tiny spot of heaven! The county seat, Starke, is filled with historic buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places. An interesting tidbit – the Arbor Day Foundation has designated Starke a Tree City. …

Spend The Night and Spread Your Wings From Lake City, Florida

Lake City, Florida is more than a convenient stop for travelers to the state at the junction of I-75, I-10 and US90. It’s the county seat of Columbia County and a great place to stay a few days to explore many of Natural North Florida’s wet and wild wonders. I’m not sure exactly when it …

Take a Virtual Vacation to Lake Butler and Union County, Florida

Take A Break and Take a Virtual Vacation in Natural North Florida Spring 2020 has brought a halt to Florida tourism, and tourism worldwide.. Our Visit Natural North Florida region has slowed, too, and with the restrictions of social distancing and travel we’re all dreaming of better times to come. And we hope that potential …

Have a “High Time” in Downtown High Springs, Florida

The small city of High Springs is considered by many to be the nexus of springs and paddling adventures in Natural North Florida.  While the region has the largest concentration of freshwater springs in the US, High Springs has several within just a few miles of town.  Visitors  to Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, Ruth B. …

Float The Santa Fe River, Then Enjoy Music at Rum 138 Outfitters, March 2, 2019, In Fort White, FL

  Doug Jipson and Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson’s Rum138 Outfitters has become a gathering spot for paddlers and music lovers in southern Columbia County.  Located on CR138 (off US27, west of High Springs) at the corner of Rum Island Road, the building houses a thriving canoe and kayak rental/livery as well as some spectacular art. Out back, …

Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures–4 Locations on 2 Rivers in Natural North Florida

If you’re interested in exploring either the scenic Santa Fe River or the historic Suwannee River, in Natural North Florida, check out Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures.  They offer rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and pontoon boats from their 4 locations. The Santa Fe location is located at the FL47 bridge.  There, you can park and …

Santa Fe River Fest and Songwriters’ Festival, April 17, 2016, Sponsored by Rum138

This annual fundraising event, now in its sixth year, will include the songwriting contest, music by Terraplane Rhythm & Blues, a great silent auction (art, jewelry, vacations, etc.), Kid’s Corner, 50/50 raffle, music jam session, grilled burgers and dogs, delectable desserts, beer and drinks. Proceeds go to educational and advocacy activities of Our Santa Fe …

Florida’s O’Leno State Park–A Legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps

One of Florida’s first state parks, O’Leno State Park was first developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The park is located along the banks of the scenic Santa Fe River, a tributary of the Suwannee River, and features sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps and sandhills. As the river courses through the park, …

Rum138: More Than A Paddling Destination in Southern Columbia County

Travelers to the springs areas of Natural North Florida near High Springs often ask me about Rum138.  Doug and Merrillee Jipson’s lovingly-presented creation is hard to explain.  There, you’ll find an excellent kayak and canoe outfitter, a first-rate art gallery–and you can even get your hair styled! Rum138 is definitely worth a visit, if for …