Crystal River Archaeological State Park

This 61-acre pre-Columbian site contains burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area, and a substantial midden. It is designated as a National Historic Landmark.

The six-mound complex has been occupied for more than 2,000 years, making it one of Florida’s longest continuously occupied sites. Native Americans used this site as a ceremonial centre for more than 1,600 years.

People travelled long distances to the complex to conduct business and to bury their loved ones after they died. Every year, it is estimated that as many as 7,500 Native Americans came to the complex to see what was going on.

The Crystal River Archaeological State Park, which is primarily an archaeological site, is situated on the outskirts of an expansive coastal marsh. Anglers have the opportunity to catch both saltwater and freshwater fish.

The park, which is a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, provides bird-watchers with the opportunity to observe a variety of species.