Recreation and Tourism
Some call Crystal River “The Gem of the Nature Coast.” The six-mile long winding waterway is fed by 30 springs. It connects Kings Bay with the Gulf of Mexico. Recreation and tourism are based on this unique and beautiful waterway.
But a crystal clear river is not the only unique attraction. Just north of the Crystal River Commons property off US 19 is Three Sisters Springs. This is a complex of three spring areas, with many vents and sand boils that help feed Kings Bay, the headwaters of Crystal River. These springs also constitute one of the most important natural warm-water refuges for the endangered Florida manatee. And, it’s a place where people can swim with the manatees in their natural environment.
In 2005, a group of investors, Three Sisters Holdings, LLC, acquired the property which has all of its entitlements for a beautiful, environmentally friendly development with both single and multi-family homes.
And even though we boast about the crystal waters in and around Crystal River, the Gulf coast features some of the best saltwater fishing in the region.
In an abundance of natural treasures, the area is also rich in state parks and historical sites.
Citrus County Tourism Tax Dollars Generated 1997-2008
| Year | Tax Dollars Generated |
| 1997-1998 | 238,961 |
| 1998-1999 | 251,841 |
| 1999-2000 | 287,967 |
| 2000-2001 | 294,043 |
| 2001-2002 | 302,724 |
| 2002-2003 | 482,731 |
| 2003-2004 | 510,043 |
| 2004-2005 | 544,265 |
| 2005-2006 | 603,481 |
| 2006-2007 | 601,771 |
| 2007-2008 | 646,326 |
State Parks
Crystal River Archaeological
State Park
3400 N. Museum Point
Crystal River, Florida 34428
Phone: 352-795-3817
This is a 61-acre pre-Columbian National Historic Landmark with burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, and a plaza area.
Crystal River Preserve State Park
3266 North Sailboat Avenue
Crystal River, Florida 34428
Phone: 352-563-0450
This preserve consists of undisturbed islands, inlets, backwaters, and forests, which serve as a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Fort Cooper State Park
3100 South Old Floral City Road
Inverness, Florida 34450
Phone: 352-726-0315
There are plenty of activities at the park to enjoy such as a picnic and playground area and nearly 6.2 miles of hiking trails.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife
State Park
4150 S. Suncoast Blvd.
Homosassa, FL 34446
Park Phone 352-628-5343
This park is a showcase for Florida wildlife that offers visitors an excellent opportunity to observe native animals, birds, and plants in their natural setting.
Yulee Sugar Mill Historic State Park
3400 N. Museum Pointe
Crystal River, Florida 34428
Phone: 352-795-3817
This site was once part of a thriving sugar plantation owned by David Levy Yulee. Visitors can learn about sugar making from the several interpretive panels stationed around the mill.
Other attractions include:
- Floral City Historic District
- Old Mill Gallery and Printing Museum
- Citrus County Speedway
There are four other large attractions in the area surrounding Crystal River and include:
- Buccanneer Bay
- Rainbow River
- Roger’s Christmas House
- Weeki Wachee