Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a United States National Wildlife Refuge located along Kings Bay within the city of Crystal River. The 80-acre refuge, which is only accessible via boat, was originally established in 1983 as a protected habitat for the endangered West Indian manatee. Today, it protects 20 barrier islands and several small parcels of mainland area and is overseen as part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which also oversees the nearby Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge and the three refuges of the Tampa Bay region. Popular visitors activities include fishing on the refuge's manmade lake, though no fishing is permitted within the refuge's protected natural waters. Other recreational opportunities include boating, paddling, photography, and wildlife watching opportunities, with guided tours and interpretive manatee talks offered periodically throughout the year.
Address: 1502 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River, FL 34429, Phone: 352-563-2088, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Video
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