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Crystal River Archaeological State Park |
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
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Manager's Message
The Crystal River Archaeological State Park is now surrounded by the Crystal
River Preserve State Park. For the first time an opportunity is provided which
will allow the pre-Columbian Ceremonial Complex and hundreds of associated
cultural deposits along the coast to be mapped as a layer on a geographical
information system. The comprehensive management of these cultural sites may
provide additional insight into the lives of people that lived here in ancient
times. During the next few years this research and mapping will be accomplished
by park staff working with park volunteers and archaeologists from the Gulf
Archaeology Research Institute. The information gained will likely be rapidly
incorporated in addition at indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits.
Programs allowing hands on participation by park visitors will continue. These
programs, such as Sifting for Technology and construction of typical
pre-historic dwellings, help us all to learn and experience methods used by some
of Florida's early inhabitants.
You can be a part of the many exciting things that will be occurring by becoming
a volunteer at the park.
- Nick Robbins, Park Manager
Welcome to Crystal River Archaeological State Park
A National Historic Landmark, this 61-acre, pre-Columbian, Native American site
has burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area, and a substantial
midden. The six-mound complex is one of the longest continuously occupied sites
in Florida. For 1,600 years the site served as an imposing ceremonial center for
Native Americans. People traveled to the complex from great distances to bury
their dead and conduct trade. It is estimated that as many as 7,500 Native
Americans may have visited the complex every year. Although primarily an
archaeological site, the park sits on the edge of an expansive coastal marsh.
Anglers may catch saltwater and freshwater fish. As part of the Great Florida
Birding Trail, the park offers bird-watchers the chance to observe a variety of
birds. The park has a boat tour of the river every Friday, weather permitting.
Located on Museum Pointe in Crystal River.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Crystal River Archaeological State Park, please call
352-795-3817.
Hours of Operation
This park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Visitor
center/museum hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
Driving Directions
From the town of Crystal River travel north on US 19 for two miles; turn west on
State Park Street; travel for one mile; turn left on Museum Pointe and follow it
into the park.
Park Fees
Admission Fee - $2.00 per vehicle (limit of 8 people per vehicle).
Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with a holder
of an Annual Individual Entrance permit Admission Fee $1.00 per person.
Bus tour admission fee is $40.00 or $1.00 per person whichever is less (the
driver is free).
This site is a National Historic Landmark and is ADA accessible. Prices include
all state and local taxes.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
3400 N. Museum Point
Crystal River, Florida 34428
Phone: 352-795-3817
Fax: Contact Park for Number |
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