Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge & Visitor Center
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge & Visitor Center is a protected area on Kings Bay in Crystal River dedicated primarily to the Florida Manatee. The center features exhibits, a nature store, and water views, while the majority of the refuge can only be accessed by boat or kayak.
The refuge was established as the only one in the United States created specifically to protect the Florida Manatee. Since its founding, it has focused on preserving these animals and their habitats in this region.
The name reflects the crystal-clear springs and rivers that feed the water in this area. For visitors, the site represents a shared commitment to protecting these gentle animals and understanding the natural world around us.
Entry to the center and immediate grounds is free with accessible pathways for visitors with mobility challenges. The best time to visit is November through March, when up to 600 manatees gather in the warm springs, though the center operates year-round.
The springs in this area maintain a constant warm temperature year-round, making them a natural refuge for manatees during winter months. This thermal feature is so important to the animals that it is the primary reason one of the largest concentrations of the species gathers here.
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