Set along a quiet stretch of the Carrabelle River, Carrabelle River Retreat offers a rare combination of acreage, privacy, and immediate Gulf access in the heart of Florida's forgotten coast. With more than 200 feet of direct river frontage 9.63± acres, the property captures the timeless character of old Florida while providing effortless access to some of most untouched coastal waters in the Southeast.
Located just minutes from downtown Carrabelle and four miles from the beach, the property serves as a private waterfront headquarters for boating, fishing and exploring the barrier islands that define this stretch of coastline.
“This place has that old Florida feel,” the owner explains. “When you break the mouth of the river and it opens up in front of you, it’s just serenity and freedom. You can go wherever you want and you have this entire playground to yourself.” - Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
A Private Riverfront Setting
The home sits high above the Carrabelle River, positioned to take advantage of expansive waterfront views and a setting defined by privacy. Across the river lies Tate's hell State Forest, ensuring the protected landscape and unobstructed views will remain the same.
“When I sit here on the front porch and look across the river at Tate’s Hell, that’s why I bought this place,” the owner says. “There’s nothing going to be built across from us. This part of the river is very, very private.” - Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
A custom dock with a floating platform provides immediate access to the river making fishing and boating part of daily life. The brackish of the Carrabelle River are known for their productivity and productive, offering opportunities to catch bass, redfish and trout just steps from the home.
Gateway to the Forgotten Coast
From the dock, a short boat ride leads directly to the Gulf waters and the region’s renowned barrier islands. Dog Island, St. George Island, and Alligator Point are all easily reached by boat, offering miles of undeveloped white sand beaches and some of the most authentic coastal landscapes remaining in Florida.
“You can go downriver and be in the Gulf in no time,” the owner says. “From there you’ve got Dog Island straight ahead, St. George to the west, and endless water to explore.” Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
Much of Dog Island remains undeveloped and protected, creating a stretch of coastline that feels untouched by modern development.
“You can sit on that beach and look a mile down the shoreline and see nothing but sand,” he explains. “That’s how raw Florida used to be.” - Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
Custom Home with Old Florida Character
The 1,906± square-foot custom home blends comfortable living with timeless coastal craftsmanship. Hardwood floors, cedar walls, and exposed pine and oak beams create a warm timeless atmosphere throughout the home. Custom yellow pine interior doors with cherry and walnut trim add distinctive character and detail.
The layout balances privacy and gathering. A spacious first-floor master suite anchors the main level, while two ensuite bedrooms upstairs provide comfortable accommodations for family and guests. A bonus room overlooking the river offers an additional sleeping quarters, a study, or a quiet retreat with expansive water views.
“I bought this house because it reminded me of an old Florida home,” the owner says. “Something you’d see along the historic coast, but right here on the Carrabelle River.” Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
A Lifestyle Built Around the Water
For the current owners, the property has served as a headquarters for countless outdoor adventure — boating, fishing, exploring backwaters, and gathering with friends along the barrier islands.
“This isn’t just a house on the river, It’s a place where we start every adventure.” - Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
Whether heading offshore to fish, running up the Crooked or New Rivers, or tying up alongside friends at Dog Island for the afternoon, the property offers immediate access to some of the most diverse coastal waters in Florida.
“There’s never a dull moment here. Whether it’s calm and you’re heading to the islands, or blowing and you’re fishing the rivers, there’s always something to do.” Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
The Forgotten Coast Lifestyle
Despite its privacy, Carrabelle River Retreat remains close to the conveniences of Carrabelle. Restaurants, marinas, groceries, and local shops are just minutes away, while Apalachicola and St. George Island are an easy drive for dining, shopping, and exploring the surrounding coast.
For the current owner, the greatest value of the property has been the time spent outdoors with family.
“This place has a way of slowing down time,” he says. “When we’re here, everything else goes away and you focus on your family and the adventure of the day.” - Jack Fulford, Landowner, Carrabelle River Retreat
At its core, Carrabelle River Retreat is more than a river home—it is a place where life revolves around the water, the outdoors, and time spent with family and friends.
Co-listed with Andrea Meadows, Licensed Broker, Hill Spooner & Elliott