Running Deer Lodge

Running Deer Lodge is secluded in its own 10 wooded acres in a very quiet rural area close to the Withlacoochee State Forest and is surrounded by woods and farmland. With very little traffic, and pretty winding country roads, driving is actually a pleasure!

The Lodge is only 35 minutes west of I-75/Florida Turnpike or east of US 19. Orlando's theme parks are just 1 1/2 hours away and Tampa is 1 1/4 hours away. There are several old Florida towns nearby, including Floral City and Brooksville, with interesting historic houses. The Gulf of Mexico is just a 30 minute drive, and nearer still are numerous lakes and rivers.

Running Deer Lodge is surrounded by many uninhabited acres, so there is plenty of room to roam. There is a horseshoe pitch, croquet, a firepit bar-b-que area, hammock and swing. Guests have full use of the grounds.

Boating, fishing, canoeing, diving, and horseback riding are all nearby, as well as a 46 mile bike and walking trail. There are many great golf courses in the area and several wildlife refuges, including the Homassasa Wildlife Refuge, where manatees can be seen year round. This is the only area where, at certain times of the year, you can actually swim with the manatees! There are also many antique shops and several historical sites to visit.

A two-storied wood frame house with knotty pine interior walls, floors and ceilings, Running Deer Lodge combines old world charm with modern conveniences. The first floor consists of an open plan living/dining area Great Room with a 25 ft. cathedral ceiling. One wall has floor to ceiling windows looking out on the grounds.

The walls, floor and ceiling of the Great Room are all knotty pine. The room is comfortably furnished and has a piano, large TV, VCR and stereo system, all of which guests are free to use as they please.

The dining area leads out to an open porch overlooking the grounds. There is also a large screened porch. An open wooden staircase leads up to the two large guest rooms/suites on the second floor.

Guests are welcomed with light refreshments on arrival. Early morning coffee or tea is served to the guest rooms. A hearty homecooked breakfast and English style afternoon tea are served in the dining room or on one of the porches.

Running Deer Lodge is the perfect getaway for nature lovers or those simply seeking peace and tranquility. Our aim is to do all we can to ensure that our guests' stay with us is truly memorable and that they will Relax, Refresh, Revive and RETURN!

All three moved here from South Florida in 1997 after visiting the area and falling in love with its charm and peacefulness.

• From I-75 take Exit 66 at Wildwood
  
• Take SR44 West to Iverness
  
• Left on CR581 10 miles to CR480 (Stagecoach Trail)
  
• Right on CR480 for 1 mile
  
• Driveway to Running Deer Lodge is on the right
  

"Almost hate to share this little secret, but here goes! If you are looking for a quiet, out-of-the-way place to relax, enjoy fresh air, and rejuvinate, this is the place for you. Way off the beaten path, but just close enough that you can find civilization if you want it.

The lodge has only two rooms, and both are beautifully decorated and plush. Sue serves more than a full breakfast, and she and Mickey are delightful, fun hosts. It's like going to stay with old friends. Easy access to the Withlacoochee trail, a 43 mile multi-use recreational trail for biking, horse back riding and walking. Not too far from Homassassa Springs and several forests and wildlife areas."
-Tarpon Springs, FL
 

"This wonderful lodge is a perfect escape from the noisy city, and the standard corporate hotels. The lodge itself is very spacious and comfortable, retaining its beautiful charm and tasteful decor while providing all the amenities.

Attention to detail is everywhere. Home made cookies before bed, delicious water from the on site well, an enormous jacuzzi tub in my room, fluffy fluffy bath towels, delightfully friendly and accomodating hosts, a fantastic breakfast made to order, gorgeous grounds with hiking trails and nice wildlife; these are what set the Running Deer Lodge apart.

I would recommend this treasure to anyone looking for a quiet place to stay and a wonderful lodging experience. Best wishes to Sue and Mickey. It was a real pleasure."
-Athens,GA
 

"My husband and I recently enjoyed this beautiful bed and breakfast! We definately recommend it! Mickey is very laid back and friendly, and Sue is a lovely hostess and made us a great full breakfast. My husband and I appreciated the special touches... It was a perfect get away not too far from the city but where we could relax some for some much needed special time together."
-Tampa, FL