Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you do the following:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
  • Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other groups.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • Swim with Manatees Rotator

    Virtual Swim with the Manatees

    Experience the Virtual Swim with the manatees online !

    Virtual Swim

  • Manatee Recovery Rotator

    Florida Manatee Recovery Plan

    The purpose of recovery is to focus on implementing, monitoring and addressing effectiveness of conservation to reduce threats.

    Learn More

  • Manatee Threatened Rotator

    The Florida Manatee

    This gentle giant is threatened largely because of alteration and destruction of coastal habitats by man.

    Learn more

  • Kayak 2

    Volunteers Needed!!

    Would you like to be apart of something great? Come volunteer for the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge!

    Volunteer Opportunities

Important Information

Mind Your Manatee Manners

Manatee Button

Observing from a distance is the best way to protect manatees and all wildlife. Watch manatee manners videos before swimming, diving, boating, photography or videography.

Learn More

Three Sisters Spring's Makeover

Three Sisters Springs Master Plan

New improvements are being made to Three Sister Springs! They include a new paved entrance road, a small parking area for educational programs, a refurbished entrance, an ADA-compliant trail, restrooms, manatee-viewing platforms, and native plantings. Construction started in early July and will continue through early 2020. The project is being funded by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Friends of the Crystal River NWR, and a state grant acquired through the City of Crystal River.

Click here for the Master Plan Map

Three Sisters Springs

Manatee with a calf Ivan Vicente

Three Sisters Springs property was acquired by the City of Crystal River and the Southwest Florida Water Management District in 2010. Click on the link below for more information.

Three Sisters Springs Center

Crystal River NWR Information Tear Sheet

Manatees 250 W

Refuge related Manatees information along with Kings bay maps and much more.

Learn more
Get Involved

Help Make A Difference!

MR

Support the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by assisting in the conservation of our public lands and the protection of our natural wildlife resources and their habitat.

Learn More

About the Complex

Crystal River Complex

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Crystal River Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online