Farm Stays in Putnam County: Your Barnyard Getaway

There’s just something special about waking up, stepping outside with a warm cup of coffee, and breathing in the fresh air. It’s even nicer when you have a playful crew of farm animals run up to welcome you to a new day. 

While there’s an abundance of places to stay in Putnam County, two unique spots specifically cater to those who have a desire for up-close-and-personal experiences with farm animals. These two hidden treasures in Putnam County need to be on your must-visit list. Rooterville Animal Sanctuary and Two Old Goats Farm are the perfect places for those who are looking for unique places to stay in Florida. If you don’t want to stay overnight, that’s ok, both spots also offer activities for visitors to just come out and spend a day with the friendly animals. 

Rooterville Animal Sanctuary
1208 County Road 315
Melrose, Florida 32666
352-262-7313

Rooterville Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves as a haven for a variety of farm animals – mostly pigs. Elaine West never set out to have an animal sanctuary, but over 25 years ago she went to a shelter to adopt a dog, and also came home with a pig that had fallen off of a transport truck and needed a home. The rest is history, and she now shares her passion for these rescued animals with others. 

There are about 100 animals who live there now, and when you visit, you have the opportunity to visit with all of them. They all have their own stories of how they’ve ended up at Rooterville, too. Even if you just visit for the day, you’ll have access to the entire property. As you stroll along, you’ll be welcomed by cows, pigs, goats, sheep, horses, peacocks, chickens, turkeys, and more. Rooterville Animal Sanctuary is open to the public for farm visits Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If those hours don’t work for you, or if you would just like to come out for a private tour and have the farm all to yourself, you can do that, too. Just make sure to make reservations in advance. 

You’ll also want to spend some time hanging out by the picturesque pond – but make sure you bring along a pocket full of quarters. There’s a machine that dispenses fish food, and you’ll definitely want to feed the fish and turtles. It’s so exciting to see them jumping for snacks. There’s also a bountiful butterfly garden, and you may even get lucky and spot some hummingbirds fluttering around. Before you go though, there’s one thing you absolutely, positively have to do: book a cow cuddle!  Who wouldn’t want to snuggle up with Jett the Highland cow? This is the most popular experience on the farm, and is available as an add-on. There’s also an on-site gift shop that has a plethora of great gift items, so make sure you pick up a souvenir before you head home also. The proceeds from sales all go back to take care of the rescued animals. 

Staying overnight at Rooterville Animal Sanctuary

Those who stay overnight at Rooterville will have the ability to explore the entire farm – and even wake up there. There are campsites available for those who want to bring along an RV, but they also offer another novel lodging opportunity. If you’ve never stayed the night in a covered wagon, this is your chance. 

Even though they may look old-timey from the outside (and that’s part of the allure), once you step inside, you’ll see these two covered wagons are a bit nicer than they had back in the 1800s. You won’t be going without any of the luxuries – these covered wagons come with central heating and air, a king-size bed, and a bathroom. An additional cot can also be added in if needed. There’s also a small kitchenette area with a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and a table with chairs. 

Outside you’ll find a pergola with grills and a picnic table, as well as fire pits. Pack some marshmallows and enjoy a nice evening by the fire making s’mores. Just don’t be surprised if the piggies meander up to hang out by the fire with you, too! 

Local Tip:  Bring along some snacks if you want to make friends with the animals quickly.  Baby carrots, bananas, grapes, and sliced apples are some of their favorites. You can also bring bird seed, lettuce, and mealworms for the chickens and turkeys.

Two Old Goats Farm
245 Lynne Drive
Hollister, Florida 32147
386-546-2500

Almost 10 years ago, the Johnson family adopted three Nigerian dwarf goats. Fast forward to the present day, and they’re loving the farm life so much that they’ve decided to share it with others. Since the farm was first established, the home has opened its fields to more than just goats. These days there are about 75 animals that live at Two Old Goats Farm – including alpacas, llamas, donkeys, horses, cows, bunnies, pigs, chickens, ducks, peacocks, and emus. 

Once per month, they host their monthly Farm Day. (Keep an eye on their website for specific dates.) This is a great family-friendly event that includes a hayride, farm tour, a petting zoo, pony rides, and more. You’ll also find plenty of fun activities set up such as cornhole, photo ops, etc. If you aren’t able to visit on a Farm Day, you can also book a private tour on a day of your choice. 

When you go, make sure you also visit The Farm Shop. There you’ll find a huge assortment of gift items – and you can try out the goat milk lotion. If you’re looking for alpaca yarn, you’ll be able to get that there, too.

Staying overnight at Two Old Goats Farm

The top level of the big red barn is the perfect spot for a getaway with your family or friends. The spacious condo has two bedrooms and one bathroom. One bedroom has a queen-size bed, while the other has a full-size bed with a twin trundle. 

There’s also a comfortable living room where you can hang out and reminisce together about the day’s adventures on the farm. The fully-stocked kitchen has everything you could possibly need to give you all of the comforts of home. There’s a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, coffee bar, toaster, air fryer, and more. 

As a bonus, there are also French doors just off of the dining area that lead out to a balcony overlooking the alpaca and sheep field. This is a fun spot to sit back and watch the animals play. You may even spot some of the other residents at Two Old Goats Farm, like Mr. Big Bird the emu. You also have the option of adding on a private farm tour. Another perk of staying at a goat farm is that you get extra-special toiletries like homemade soap, shampoo, and conditioner made from goat milk.  

Local Tip: Since Putnam County has so many great trails, you may want to pick up a pair of alpaca socks when you’re there – they are some of the best socks for hiking. (Also make sure you download the Visit Putnam FL app for Apple or Android to learn more about all of the great places to hike in Putnam County.)

Both Rooterville Animal Sanctuary and Two Old Goats Farm are also available for special events. If you’re looking for a unique venue for a party, reach out to both and inquire about availability. These special locations are able to customize memorable experiences to make your day extra special. No matter if you’re hosting an event, just having a few days away with family or friends, or seeking the solitude of the farm for some much needed “me-time,” you’ll find that both locations offer a one-of-a-kind retreat that you’ll love.