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 be incorporated in the 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
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of Crystal River
3400 North Museum Pointe
Crystal River, FL 34428
