Nature's Peace & A Catskill Adventure
The SPPF Story
Susan's Pleasant Pheasant Farm, established in 1992 as a Bed and Breakfast, welcomed guests to enjoy its scenic beauty and wildlife. Originally accommodating up nine guests, the farm featured goats, sheep, pheasants, and Great Pyrenees dogs, along with homemade goat cheese and pheasant eggs.
Renowned for its incredible birdlife, including Bald Eagles and Canada Geese, the property boasted walking trails and a swimming hole. After Hurricane Irene in 2011, we renovated and expanded our grounds, opening them the public, allowing everyone to experience the beauty we cherish.
The SPPF Culture
At Susan’s Pleasant Pheasant Farm, our culture is built on the belief that the best memories are made on the water and shared with family. As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, low-stress environment where guests can unplug and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Catskills.
This atmosphere is brought to life by our wonderful staff, whose dedication and local expertise ensure that every paddler feels safe, supported, and truly at home. Whether you are launching a kayak for the first time or returning for an annual family tradition, our team’s genuine hospitality is the heartbeat of the farm, turning a simple day on the river into an unforgettable experience.
Jim and Susan
Jim and Susan opened SPPF and have poured their passion for the Catskills into evolving the farm from a cozy B&B into a vibrant community hub for paddlers and nature lovers. Their original warmth and dedication remain the heart of every guest experience today.
The Tree
Standing as a timeless symbol of the farm's heart, the majestic tree in the center of the lake—where Jim and Susan exchanged their wedding vows—is the first landmark to greet you and a favorite destination to paddle around.
The Staff
Our team members are the essential guides to your adventure, bringing a friendly energy and helpful expertise that makes every visitor feel genuinely cared for from the moment they hit the water.
The Catskill Mountains
The Catskill Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop of rolling peaks and lush forests, offering a serene sanctuary where the abundance of local wildlife and the winding river waters create the perfect setting for a peaceful escape.
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Our Customers Experience
Rented the kayaks and had a blast, birds, frogs turtles and fish to see on a nice paddle up the lake. Jimbo was super helpful, beyond friendly and super knowledgeable. 10/10 a must stop if you are in the area. We were able to go on a hike and he let us borrow some fishing poles after as well. A little bit of everything to do.
- Alex S. 2025
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We had a wonderful experience at Susan’s Farm—it’s truly a magical place. The property is beautifully maintained and offers so much to explore. You can easily spend the whole day enjoying a range of activities, from kayaking and swimming in the watering hole to hiking and browsing local shops. Jim was incredibly kind and took plenty of time to walk us through the farm, sharing insights and recommending things to do. We’ll definitely be back!
- Masha Z. 2025
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Went kayaking and then to their private swimming hole. Incredible experience! Staff was super friendly and knowledgeable, site is amazing, bucolic and just beautiful. Brought our kids, 7 & 10, who loved it, especially the swimming hole, which is perfect for young kids. We will be back!
- David C. 2025
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Such a hidden gem! We rented a kayak and SUP for the day and had the lake and swimming hole to ourselves. Jim, was incredibly kind and helpful. It’s all on his private land, and he opens it up to the public for a small fee which makes it even more special. If you’re staying near Roxbury, skip the crowded lakes and come here instead! Can’t recommend this experience enough!
- Orla O. 2025
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Finding Susan’s Pleasant Pheasant Farm was an absolute gift. I am new to kayaking and Jim gave me all salient pointers and support to get me on the water. They offer a special membership deal to those with the great good fortune of living close by to use kayaks throughout the week at your convenience for a great rate. I’ve jumped on this and now at least twice a week in the morning I’m out on the water getting a great workout in this stunning natural setting. Extremely grateful for this exquisite opportunity to learn as I go, and to workout on the water with the turtles, geese and raptors.
- Erika G. 2025
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If you're in the area, this place is a must visit! My friends and I went to the watering hole and had a lovely time swimming in the water; it was clean, not too cold, and the scenery was beautiful. We had such an amazing time & the hospitality was amazing (thanks, Jim!), so we decided to return the next day and Kayak. I would 100% recommend to go with friends & family.
- Spencer A. 2024
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Found this lovely little gem today and we'll be returning as often as possible during our stay in Roxbury this summer. Rollings hills, a quiet little river, wildflowers in bloom, and all manner of wildlife - this place has everything we were looking for and a whole lot more. Jim was so kind and informative and helpful. We found our way around easily and were delighted every step of the way. A perfect summer oasis!
- Laurel R. 2023
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What a charming kayaking experience! Jim, who’ll most likely greet you as you emerge from your car, was gregarious and helpful! Truly passionate about the mom and pop operation he operates. Had a personal touch in weighing in on which kayaks are optimal for my wife and my needs! The body of water does run along a road which is a mild minus but that’s offset by the lovely beaver dams that run along the stream. Enjoy!
- Russel U. 2023
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Our family loved the tranquility and natural beauty of kayaking here; the youngest in our party was 4, the oldest was 70, and without exception, we all had a wonderful time.
After kayaking, we ate lunch at the lakeside picnic tables (shaded under generous trees), and walked around the extensive grounds afterwards. This was the unexpected highlight of our afternoon-- the grounds are just absolutely beautiful. Careful landscaping and wildflowers alike complement each other throughout to create a perfect setting for a family stroll. We couldn't dreamt up a better spot to spend our day.
- Austin S. 2022
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A gem in the Catskill Mountains of NY! Susan and Jim are attentive, caring hosts at Susan's Pleasant Pheasant Farm. A well appointed room, great amenities and views of Lake Wawaka. Plenty of hiking trails, bird watching, kayaking and picnic tables make for a delightful getaway. Located in the charming hamlet of Halcottsville and close to a farmer's market, farms and nearby towns for antiquing. Definitely coming back!
-Esther V. 2022
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My wife and two little dogs and I had a wonderful time at Susan’s pleasant pheasant farm! We kayaked and had a picnic at the swimming hole and walked around the beautiful grounds covered in wildflowers. Jim was super accommodating and helpful. We called ahead to see if we could bring the dogs and ended up being able to come by on a weekday. The place was gorgeous. We’ll definitely come back again!
-Maegan W. 2022
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We've been kayaking here several times, it's a beautiful trip on a usually glassy lake and up the river just a bit. The staff is always friendly, welcoming and helpful. Family and dog friendly. Great way to see nature up close, from beautiful black and emerald dragonflies to mama ducks with all their ducklings to beaver dams. A bit on the expensive side, but there's no time limit so you can make a day of it!
-Eve M. 2019