Where is Crystal River Archaeological State Park, Crystal River, Florida?

Written by | Updated On: December 08, 2025, 13:55 ET

Crystal River Archaeological State Park is located in Crystal River, Florida, USA.It lies between the Gulf Coast and central Florida, situated in a quiet coastal area, and is famous for its ancient Native American mounds and peaceful river views.

Crystal River Archaeological State Park Location Map, Crystal River, Florida

Top Attractions Inside Crystal River Archaeological State Park

  • Temple Mound – The park’s tallest ceremonial mound offering elevated views of the river.
  • Burial Mounds – Ancient Native American mounds reflecting over 1,600 years of history.
  • Mound A Overlook – Scenic viewpoint overlooking the Crystal River and marshlands.
  • Interpretive Trail – Easy walking path with signs explaining the site’s archaeological significance.
  • Museum & Exhibits – Displays showcasing artifacts and the culture of the early inhabitants.
  • Crystal River Boardwalk – Peaceful walk along the water with chances to spot birds and wildlife.

Crystal River Archaeological State Park Facts

Official NameCrystal River Archaeological State Park
LocationCrystal River, Citrus County, Florida, USA
Latitude & Longitude28.9076° N, 82.5962° W
Total Area~61 acres (25 hectares)
Opened1965 (as a Florida State Park)
FounderPreserved by the State of Florida; originally inhabited by Native American cultures (Deptford & Weeden Island)
Managed ByFlorida Department of Environmental Protection (Florida State Parks)
RegionWest Central Florida
Address3400 North Museum Point, Crystal River, FL 34428, USA
Zip Code34428
Area Code352
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) - UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptPrehistoric Native American Ceremonial Mound Complex, Archaeology, Cultural Heritage
Sections (Lands)Mound A - Temple Mound - Burial Mounds - Plaza Area - Interpretive Museum - Marsh Overlook
Famous AttractionsTemple Mound Platform - Six-Mound Complex - Crystal River - Interpretive Museum - Boardwalk Overlook
Annual VisitorsApprox. 25,000–40,000 visitors annually
Entry Fee TypePaid State Park Entrance Fee
Ticket Price Range~$3 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
Ticket OptionsDay Pass - Educational Group Visits - Florida State Parks Annual Pass
Best Time to VisitOctober–April (Comfortable weather & fewer insects)
Nearby AirportTampa International Airport (TPA) – ~75 miles (120 km)
TransportationCar Access via US-19 - Parking Area - Walking Trails - Interpretive Paths
Official Websitehttps://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/crystal-river-archaeological-state-park

Distances from Crystal River Archaeological State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Downtown Crystal River, FL – 4.8 km (3 mi)
  • Three Sisters Springs – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Kings Bay (boat/Kayak launch area) – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Gulf of Mexico (nearest coast access) – 9 km (6 mi)
  • Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park – 16 km (10 mi)
  • Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge – 24 km (15 mi)
  • Crystal River Preserve State Park boundary – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge (alternate access) – 5 km (3 mi)
  • Crystal River Old City Hall / Coastal Heritage Museum – 4.8 km (3 mi)