This six-mound complex is considered one of the longest continually
occupied sites in Florida. For 1,600 years these 14 acres were an imposing
prehistoric ceremonial center. Native Americans traveled great distances
to the complex to bury their dead with ceremony and to participate in trade
activities. It is estimated that 7,500 Indians might have visited the complex
annually.
Visitors can see all of the sites from the accessible 1/2 mile loop
trail that goes past each mound. A 55-step observation deck gives a birds-eye
view of the entire area. Signs along the trail interpret each mound. Crystal
River Archeological Site is a National Historic Landmark.
VISITATION
21,000 visitors annually
ADDRESS
3400 N. Museum Point, Crystal River, FL 34428
TELEPHONE
352-795-3817
OPERATING HOURS
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 7 days a week
CLIMATE, RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
Summer - dress cool, temperature in the 90s, bring insect repellant,
drinking water if hiking, suntan lotion if planning on extended outside
activity.
Winter- normally mild in the 40 to 76 degree range, wear layers of light
clothing. Occasional drops into the 20's and 30's.
DIRECTIONS
Crystal River State Archeological Site is located on Museum Point in
Crystal River off Highway 19 just north of Homosassa Springs.
This map was created using MapQuest
TRANSPORTATION
No public transportation
FEES, COSTS, RATES
$2.00 per vehicle, up to eight people per vehicle
FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Visitor center with open captioned video about tribes who lived in the
area. A paved walkway through mound site with stairs to top of larger mounds.
Trails/Roadways:
One paved, loop trail
Programs, Activities:
Some ranger-led talks and walks
Lodging and Camping:
Available in Crystal River
Food, Supplies:
Available in Crystal River
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES/PARK USE
A great place to learn about Florida's first inhabitants and 12 thousand
years of human history in Florida.
BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS
Bring insect repellant
VISITOR IMPACTS
All things are protected in state parks:
Please dispose of trash properly.
ADJACENT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS
Diving with manatees in Crystal River and a visit to Homosassa Springs
State Wildlife Park.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For more information on archeology, visit the National Park Service
Southeast Archeological Center.
Florida
State Parks WWW Site
