Swim with the Manatees in Citrus County, Florida

Situated in Citrus County, Crystal River was incorporated in 1903 and covers about six square miles. It has become popular as a Manatee watching area. This is the only place in the country where people are allowed to swim with these aquatic mammals in their own environment. The warm water around the springs flowing into King's Bay attracts many manatees during the winter, sometimes numbering over 400. The Crystal River runs from King's Bay to the Gulf of Mexico.

Native Vacations is just one of several outfitters who will take people on Manatee tours. A Crystal River Kayak Company offers Crystal River kayaking and canoe tours and rental right off their dock, a much more relaxing experience than a crowded tour boat. Manatees swim right up to a kayak often.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is another great place to swim with Manatees in Florida. Get close to nature at the Withacoohee State Forest, offering walking, biking, and horseback trails.

This is the heart of the Florida Nature Coast. A pleasant stop is Crystal River Preserve State Park. The nearby Crystal River Archeological State Park has a small museum, a burial mound, and a waterfront park. Hunter Springs Park is right downtown, where locals go swimming. Close to town is the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, where camping is allowed and there is a canoe outfitter.

At a compact 14 acres, Fort Island Trail Park offers a fishing pier and boat ramps, plus waterfront picnic areas to relax in. Nearby are the ruins of the historic Yulee Sugar Mill, where visitors can explore this reminder of Florida in the 1800s.

Just south of Crystal River is Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, source of the Homosassa River. This river runs about 9 miles west to the Gulf of Mexico, gradually going from fresh to salt water. A favorite fishing spot, the Homosassa River is home to manatees, dolphins, snapping turtles, armadillos, and many other Florida critters.

US highway 19 crosses Citrus County roughly north-south, while the Suncoast Parkway toll road connects the area with Tampa International Airport. There is no airline or railroad service, but Greyhound Bus Lines stops at downtown Crystal River

Favorite hotels in Crystal River include the Plantation Golf Resort and Spa, plus the Crystal River Suites. Among popular Crystal River restaurants are Fat Cat Grille and Charlies Fish House.