SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE
The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park
By Hayli Zuccola
Rhythm and Roots
Nestled in the sleepy wilderness of Live Oak , the over 800 acres that make up the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park are flecked with lush cypress , blooming dogwood and mosswrapped oak ; carved by hiking and biking trails ; and enhanced with lakes , hidden waterfalls and a view of the acclaimed Suwannee River .
For the most part , the park is relatively quiet with sounds emanating from wind-ruffled trees , rushing water and nearby wildlife as deer , hawks , owls and the occasional peacock call the area home . Of course , becoming immersed in these natural surroundings is effortless with the amenities of an on-site bird sanctuary and one of the largest bat houses in America .
Those uninterested in sunset bat-watching also have the option of swimming , kayaking or canoeing along the historic river ; hiking or horseback riding through multiple trails ; playing a game of disc golf or exploring one-of-a-kind features in the park like the Mother Tree Treehouse . Designed by Michael Garnier of “ The Tree House Guys ” fame , the three-story structure was built 45 feet off the ground in a 175-year-old live oak and can be toured or rented out .
Though peace and tranquility is attainable during a weekend visit , the park is most notable for hosting music festivals and events , which begin in March with the Suwannee Spring Reunion and into December with Suwannee Lights .
“ Suwannee Spring Reunion is a big one ,” said Ryan Gambel , who is the Director of Marketing Sponsorship for the park .
Typically held in March , the Suwannee Spring Reunion is a four-day family-oriented festival featuring Americana , folk and bluegrass music and
94 SUWANNEE CHAMBER IMPACT | 2021-2022