Crystal River State Archaeological Site

Located in Citrus County, the Crystal River Archaeological State Park is a National Historic Landmark. It covers some 61 acres, where the remains of pre-Columbian, Native American civilization have been found, including burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area, and refuse areas.

Native Americans populated this area about 2,500 years ago and settled here until the early 16th century. They used the Crystal River for transportation and fishing and passed through at least three distinct cultural periods before vacating the site. For example, about 1,600 years this was an important ceremonial center for surrounding tribes, and pilgrims would journey over great distances to bury their dead here.

Today's visitors can tour the six-mound complex, which sits beside a coastal marsh full of fish and a wide variety of birds. Of interest are the village area's shell middens, vertical limestone slabs called "stele," and a museum constructed in 1965 to house artifacts recovered here. There is also a boardwalk trail that allows hiking through the wild terrain as well as walking dogs on leashes.

The Crystal River Archaeological State Park is located at 3400 North Museum Point, Crystal River, Florida 34428. Operating hours are from 8am until sundown daily, although the visitor center and museum are closed on weekends. The admission fee is $3 per vehicle, payable at the honor box at the entrance.