Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

Overview

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a serene escape showcasing diverse wildlife and scenic waterways. It's a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Home to the endangered West Indian manatee and diverse bird species

Nature Wildlife Outdoors

Location

Address

1502 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, Florida

Neighborhood: Kings Bay

Coordinates

29.000000, -82.583300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Wildlife is more active

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day with kayaking and wildlife tours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

• Wildflowers
• Manatee sightings

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended daylight

autumn

Cooling down, pleasant

• Fall bird migration

winter

Cool, comfortable

• Manatee season

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Reservations recommended for tours
Bring water and sunscreen
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Water Sunscreen Hat

seasonal

Light jacket in winter Rain gear in summer

not allowed

Drones without permit Pets in certain areas

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to Moderate

• Stay hydrated
• Use sunscreen

Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit Card, Debit Card

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5

parking $2

kayak rental $40

guided tour $30

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Light, breathable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, Swimwear outside designated areas

Booking Tips

• At least a week in advance for popular tours
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for refund
• Online reservations for tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Crystal River NWR

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Tour information, Wildlife guides

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Picnic areas

Charging Stations: Visitor Center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Crystal River Airport

Distance: 5 km

Travel Time: 10 minutes

taxi

$15 10 min

rental_car

Varies 10 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

bike

$0 15 min

walk

$0 45 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife and natural beauty

Historical Significance: Ancient shell mounds and historical sites

Insider Tips

Best manatee sightings in winter
Quietest times are early morning

Local Recommendations

• Visit the Crystal River Archaeological State Park nearby
• Try local seafood at nearby restaurants

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Kings Bay

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture reflections on the water

Result: Stunning landscape shots

#CrystalRiver #Wildlife #Nature

Visitor Center

Best Time: Any time

Tips: Focus on wildlife exhibits

Result: Educational and informative photos

#Education #Wildlife

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Buildings without permission

flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Crystal River Archaeological State Park

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Historical Site

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Distance: 15 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Wildlife Park

Reviews

4.7

Based on 500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book manatee tours early"
"Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds"
"Bring plenty of water"

Contact Information

+1 352-563-2088

crystalriver@fws.gov

www.fws.gov/refuge/Crystal_River

Social Media

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