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Crystal River Preserve State Park |
Crystal River Preserve State Park
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Manager's Message
The Crystal River Preserve State Park is truly a unique area on Florida's Gulf
Coast. Our park is in between temperate and sub-tropical climate zones, which
allows for different communities to grow according to their location. In
addition to the climatic zones, it also protects expansive grass flats that
extend many miles into the gulf. The estuarine system is fed fresh water from
seven rivers in the county, which provides for an abundance of sea life. The
overall environment of this wonderful area has provided for animal and human
residents for thousands of years.
Many new pre-Columbian archaeological sites have been added to the Florida Site
Files and it is anticipated that the pre-historic and historic inventory will
continue to increase. It is important that we gain knowledge based on our
predecessor's impacts on the environment as well as the biological,
hydrological, geological, and climatic changes that have occurred, so that we
can better understand our own impacts and continuing changes in the systems for
comprehensive management.
During the next year, we will continue monitoring our wildlife in an effort to
expand the existing base line inventories and get a better understanding of our
effects on the land as a result of management techniques. With all of the
natural and cultural resource efforts, one can hope to maintain and restore the
land within the confines of the preserve. However, without an effective
education program, we would not be able to encourage stewardship for responsible
management of private surrounding lands.
The very active interpretive/education programming at the preserve will continue
and even expand over the next year. New exhibits for the visitor center are in
the works, and some unusual interpretive avenues will be tested, so keep
checking for the latest changes. Outreach is the most effective land management
tool available and has a way of perpetuating environmental awareness that will
last for generations. All in all, this is a very exciting place, so please come
and visit!
- Nick Robbins, Park Manager
Welcome to Crystal River Preserve State Park
A place of exceptional natural beauty, the undisturbed islands, inlets,
backwaters, and forests of this preserve are especially cherished by nature
lovers and photographers. The park borders 20 miles of the northern Gulf Coast
between the two cities of Yankeetown and Homosassa. Visitors can hike or bicycle
along nine miles of trails or study the native wildlife and plants on the
two-and-a-half mile interpretive trail. Anglers can walk down a short path to
the Mullet Hole for a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Paddlers can launch a kayak
or canoe into the waters of the scenic Crystal River to see the park from the
water. On the third Saturday of each month, the visitor center features the
Redfish Revue Theatre, a video presentation about the park. Located west of U.S.
19 in Crystal River.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Crystal River Preserve State Park, please call
352-563-0450.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Visitor Center: is located at 3266 North Sailboat Ave. Take U.S. Hwy 19 3/4 mile
north of the Crystal River Mall. Turn left onto State Park Drive at the Days
Inn. Follow State Park Drive until it dead ends at the Crystal River. Eco-Walk:
5990 North Tallahassee Road. Take U.S. Hwy 19 north to just before Seven Rivers
Hospital. Turn left onto Curtis Tool Road. The intersection of Curtis Tool and
Tallahassee Road is the Eco-walk trail head.
Churchhouse Hammock: across from the Crystal River Mall.
Park Fees
Admission Fee - There is no entrance fee for this park.
Crystal River Preserve State Park
3266 North Sailboat Avenue
Crystal River, Florida 34428
Phone: 352-563-0450
Fax: 352-563-0246
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