Taryn Ashby
Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center is now taking reservations for when it will open to the public in spring 2023 following renovations.
The park – located at 210 SE 134th Ave. – has undergone several changes over the last few months. Those include a renovation to an area called the Nature Center to allow for outdoor education programs and camping. Terry Coleman of Coleman Family Creations also donated a new welcome sign.
“Folks can look forward to trail walking, fishing in the pond, primitive camping with cabins to rent for overnight trips, and so much more,” said Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center Manager Jamie Bass in a phone interview.
Last week the county announced that Cuscowilla is taking reservations for rentals and retreat groups.
Cuscowilla is settled on 211 acres in a natural setting and features a fishing pond (catch-and-release), kayaking, a butterfly garden and walking trails. Spaces to rent include cabins, classrooms, meeting space in the lodge, and activities such as archery, a climbing wall and a swimming pool.
“We can host anything from wedding receptions, birthday parties, cooperate meetings to festivals,” Bass said in a county press release announcing the open reservations. “The space is such a beautiful backdrop for any event.”
Bass began her position as manager toward the end of September 2022.
“It has been great so far,” she said in an interview. “We’ve seen many great changes just in the last few months. We’ve been able to move forward doing the renovations and things like that. I’m looking forward to camp in the summer and then obviously opening to the public.”
This summer, Cuscowilla will offer eight weeks of “A Summer of Discovery Day Camp.” It will also offer two weeks of specialty camps, including Fish Camp and an all-new Adventure Camp.
Day camp is open for kids ages 7-12, and specialty camps for ages 10-14. Bus transportation is provided from Lincoln Middle School. Summer camp registration opens on April 1.
For more information, contact Jamie Bass at 352-574-2372 or email jbass@alachuacounty.us.