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Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs

Photo gallery for Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs

A park with a large tree, a picnic table, and a grassy area.
A spacious living room with a fireplace, a television, and a comfortable seating area.
A cozy room with a wooden floor, a dining table with chairs, a rocking chair, a window with blinds, and a door leading outside.
Exterior
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a stove, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Santa Fe River
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Dog-friendly
  • Laundry room
  • Non-smoking

Explore the area

View map
High Springs, FL
  • Place, Santa Fe River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ginnie Spring
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Florida
    ‪54 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Florida Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Ground Floor Half Bath

Toilet

About this property

Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs

Private 12-Acre Riverfront Retreat on the Santa Fe River – Sleeps 8



Welcome to Rivendell Springs, a peaceful 3-bedroom home on more than 12 private acres of pastures and woods, with nearly 600 feet of frontage on the spring-fed Santa Fe River. The river is just steps from the back door.



On the river

Swim, kayak, paddleboard or tube on the Santa Fe River, or fish right off the dock. Kayaks, tubes and a life jacket for every guest are provided on site.



The Springs

High Springs is known as the spring capital of the United States, with some of Florida's most beautiful freshwater springs just minutes from the house. Snorkel, swim, paddle, tube or scuba dive in crystal-clear water that stays about 72 degrees all year.



Wildlife and night skies

Watch for deer, foxes, otters, owls, squirrels and armadillos across the property. Far from city lights, the clear night skies are perfect for stargazing.



The house

More than 2,400 square feet of comfortable space across three levels, with plenty of room for everyone to spread out.



Florida room: walls of windows overlooking the flowing Santa Fe River. It's the perfect spot for morning coffee, an afternoon with a book, or watching wildlife along the water.



Living room: an open, cabin-style great room with a large couch, lounging chair, soaring wood ceilings and a third-floor walkway overlooking it from above.



Master bedroom: wake up to river views through its windows.



Third floor: two more bedrooms, one with views of the river and the other looking out over the woods and pasture, plus a half bathroom.



Ground floor: the river gear room, stocked with kayaks and floats, plus a ping pong table for game nights.



Location:



Springs nearby



Ginnie Springs (about 10 minutes): famous for snorkeling, scuba diving and tubing the Santa Fe River



Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park (about 10 minutes): a stunning blue spring for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding



Poe Springs Park (about 15 minutes): a quiet, family-friendly spring with a boardwalk and swimming area



Ichetucknee Springs State Park (about 30 minutes): Florida's most famous tubing river, a lazy float down crystal-clear spring water



Hiking nearby



River Rise Preserve State Park (about 15 minutes): miles of trails through quiet woods, sinkhole lakes and limestone outcroppings, where the Santa Fe River reappears after flowing underground



O'Leno State Park (about 20 minutes): one of Florida's first state parks, with shaded trails, a historic suspension bridge, and the River Sink, where the Santa Fe disappears underground

Ichetucknee Springs State Park: short nature trails along the spring run



Also nearby



Historic downtown High Springs, with antique shops, cafés and restaurants

About 45 minutes to the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, ideal for game days, graduations and visiting family



Good to know



Maximum 8 guests

Rate covers 2 guests; each additional guest is $30 per night

No day visitors without approval from your hosts

Swimming and river activities are at your own risk; please wear a life jacket

Please let us know right away if anything is broken or missing, so we can fix it for the next guests



Other things to note:

We are about 10 miles from the nearest Grocery Store in High Springs. There are smaller stores closer.

It helps to get some groceries prior to arriving at the House. Once you see our home, you'll want to relax & enjoy as much time at the house as possible! After 2 guests, there is a $30 per person/per night fee. Day Guests need prior approval & Charged

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 45 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 5516296vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Branford

Located in Branford, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Ginnie Spring and Ichetucknee Conservation Area, while High Springs Museum and High Springs Community Theater are cultural highlights. Kayaking, water tubing and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby.
Map
High Springs, FL

What's nearby

  • Santa Fe River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Ichetucknee Springs State Park - 16 min drive - 18.1 km
  • Ginnie Spring - 20 min drive - 12.4 km
  • University of Florida - 54 min drive - 63.6 km
  • Ben Hill Griffin Stadium - 60 min drive - 66.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪The Collective - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪The Package Shack - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Chester's Chicken - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Itchetucknee Springs Concession - ‬22 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 45 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Rivendell Springs River Home: 12 Private Acres on Santa Fe River near Springs located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Santa Fe River and within 9 mi (15 km) of Ginnie Spring and Ichetucknee Conservation Area. Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park and Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 87 out of 96 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 96 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 96 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 96 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 96 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice riverfront ranch. Great for kayaking, which we did right from the back yard.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2026
Thank you for the awesome pics! Glad you enjoyed the place.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Good hosts !
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2026
thank you
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hosts were very friendly and accessible throughout the stay. Very knowledgeable of the area and offered wonderful insight. The house offers everything you could need. Highly recommend staying here if you love the outdoors and nature. Beautiful morning views while having a cup of coffee. Whether that be on the front porch overlooking a pasture with abundant turkey/deer or on the back deck/dock overlooking the Santa Fe River. Will certainly return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2026
ThANK YOU & HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It truly is 12 peaceful deer-filled acres. Go for it.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great spot. The river is beautiful and right there. Centrally located to High Springs and ichetucknee springs. Owner is very accommodating and house is well stocked with toys. Will be going back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 May 2026
Thank you Daniel. Hope to see you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a great time at this house. Michelle was great and super easy to communicate with. Our family of 5 had a blast tubing down both the Santa Fe River behind the house, and at Ichetucknee Springs. We also did some kayaking, fishing, walked a few trails at Paynes Prairie, where we saw some wild horses, and zip lined at Haile Quarry. The property was beautiful, with lots of deer and even some wild turkeys. I would definitely recommend staying at this property if you want to get away from all the hustle and bustle of city life. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2026
Thank you & hope to see you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Awesome property

We had a great time and the hosts were so accommodating. Will definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great peaceful place to stay

This property in Branford is a great get away. Being on the river makes it absolutely peaceful. Our family had a great time here, and definitely plan to come back!
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2023
Thank you Walter, It was great having you . Hope to see you again. Jeff & Michelle
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great location

Wonderful, private location on the Santa Fe River—kayaks were great to have!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great stay!

Fantastic
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Beautiful location

Beautiful property on a river,
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Family Stay

Enjoyed the home, it is directly on the Santa Fe. It had everything we needed and more.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Oct 2023
Thank you Jessica, Hope you come back again! Jeff & Michelle
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family vacation was absolutely wonderful! Management was prompt to answer emails .

Life jackets and kayaks enjoyed the day on the river. Would stay again!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2023
Thanks, Glad you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was paradise from start to finish. Swimming in the clear river, kayaking too. Twelve acres to roam with a disc course on the property. Great views and many wonderful deck sitting places. Large spaces with a homey feel and privacy as well. My dogs loved swimming right in the back yard and a fenced in option was nice too. Travel to the springs for a life altering swimming experience. Try to do everything, I dare you.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2026
Thank you for being an awesome Guest. hope to see you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great home! Exceeded our expectations!! Host is very nice and welcoming! Definitely recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug 2025
thank you Alison. hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed the house and room it provided for our needs. Floating to down the Santa fe and visiting different springs was exactly what we were looking for. Would recommend this star.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Spring break

Awesome property and great location to all the springs.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2020
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

July Trip

This was a great trip for our family. Proximity to Ginnie and Itchnetucknee
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was exactly what we needed. Quiet and peaceful You cannot see any human neighbors but you do get to see a family of deer and otters every morning and evening and a turkey. We had evey rhing we needed. We floated from the boat ramp back to house with the procided tubes. We enjoyed the pac man arcade and giant jenga. The water was clear and beautiful. We caught biggest bass any of us had ever seen. He is still happily swimming the river. We had an awesome time.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Apr 2026
Hey Sarah, So glad you had a relaxing stay at the Ranch House. Hope to see you again. Jeff & Michelle
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

River House

beautiful house very peaceful and close to local springs great location for a family vacation peaceful !!!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2023
So glad you enjoyed our House! Come visit again. Michelle
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful place!

Very easy!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2023
Enjoyed you staying with us
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Good time

Had a wonderful stay at the ranch house
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Memorial Day

Third year in a row staying here for memorial weekend it never disappoints and we love the location!! Michelle always makes sure we are well taken care of, she is wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Loved it

Great time on the river.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Nov 2024
So nice to meet you & glad you enjoyed your time on the River! Michelle & Jeff
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great place close to the springs

Very nice, large property and close to the springs. Is on the river and has a dock to allow easy access in and out of the water. Very spacious both inside and out.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Aug 2023
So glad you enjoyed the Ranch House! Michelle

About the host

Hosted by Timothy OConnor

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English
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