history alive

Experience Crystal River’s “Ancient River Dwellers” Boat Tour

› By Diane Bedard

Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Crystal River Preserve State Park are home to a National Historic Landmark: a 61-acre Pre-Columbian Native American mound complex. This ceremonial and burial site was active from 1,000 B.C. to 500 A.D.

Both parks are quiet places to visit, with picnic areas, hiking trails and interpretive exhibits. The experience that makes the “must-do list” for visitors of all ages and abilities is taking a ride as history comes alive on the narrated Friends of Crystal River Parks’ Eco-Heritage boat tour.

“The saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico and freshwater from the springs mix in this area,” Park Service Specialist Marla Chancey explains, “and the boat tour gives visitors an opportunity to learn the history of the area as well as see wildlife that thrive in an estuarine environment. Catching views of dolphins, manatee, seabirds and shorebirds is part of every tour.”

“To view the temple mounds as the native peoples did on their annual visits to the six-mound complex and realize how this ecosystem provided for all their needs is astonishing!”

After a boat tour, Marla highly recommends a visit to the Archaeological Park to explore in detail how this area provided food and shelter for 2,000 years to the native peoples who settled and visited here.

The 24-passenger vessel, “Monroe,” is run and maintained by park volunteers. All tour proceeds sustain the tour boat operations and directly support park projects.

“The Ancient River Dwellers” boat tour is provided by the Friends of Crystal River Parks each Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:30am and 1:30pm from Labor Day through Memorial Day, but tours may be cancelled due to weather conditions. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children under 12 and free for children 6 and under.

“Tickets are sold on a first-come-firstserve basis, beginning one hour prior to boat trips and require cash or check.

You want to arrive early to ensure your seat. While waiting for the tour, there are interpretive displays and a beautiful native garden to be explored,” Marla shares.

Sunset cruises are o ered year-round, twice monthly, departing from the docks in front of the park o ce. Guests can enjoy a fun and relaxing evening retreat in nature capped with a magnificent Gulf sunset, including snacks and refreshments. Purchase tickets up to one month in advance at the Preserve o ce. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under and free for children under 6.

Both parks o er walking trails and well-behaved pets are welcome on a 6-foot leash.

Learn more › CRYSTAL RIVER

PRESERVE STATE PARK › 3266 N Sailboat Avenue › (352) 228-6028