By the Boardwalk

The shaded Three Sisters Springs Boardwalk overlooks a peacefull lagoon.

Land Access at Three Sisters Springs

Three Sisters Springs, a unit of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (CRNWR), is the gem of the Nature Coast. Visitors to the refuge can enjoy wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and bicycling when visiting this beautiful refuge. The boardwalk has viewing platforms to observe the springs and native wildlife. There are also nature trails that offer views of Magnolia Springs, Lake Crystal, and the wetlands. Three Sisters Springs is a world-renowned winter sanctuary for the West Indian Manatee. Over 100 different native and migratory bird species use the refuge year-round.

The 57-acre refuge that surrounds the Three Sisters Springs is an example of a restored wetland habit. Visitors can explore hiking trails to view the Wetland, Lake Crystal, Magnolia Spring, and the scenic boardwalk that surrounds Three Sisters Springs.

Visitors can observe mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians common to a Florida spring ecosystem. Cold winter days bring 100's of manatees seeking warm water refuge into the springs.

US Fish & Wildlife Service volunteers offer guided walking tours and are available to field questions concerning the refuge, native wildlife, and the Florida spring system. 

In an effort to preserve the shoreline vegetation, control erosion, and maintain water clarity, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and the City of Crystal River do not allow water access to visitors from this site, nor do they allow land access from the water.

  • Land access is open daily from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
    • No visitors are admitted after 3:30 pm 
  • There is no parking permitted on the refuge, however, there are a limited number of handicapped parking spaces available with a valid permit.
  • Pets are not permitted on the refuge, registered service animals are welcome.
  • Restroom facilities are available on the refuge. Restrooms are also available at the Three Sisters Springs Center.
  • Leave only footprints, take only pictures. Leave rocks, plants, and other natural features as you find them so they can be enjoyed by future generations.
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A wooden boardwalk surrounded by trees and shade, overlooks the Three Sisters Springs.
Three boardwalk patrons rest on the railing while gazing at the vibrant blue water of the Three Sisters Springs.
A trolly in isometric view
The Three Sisters Springs takes refuge among the trees that line its banks.  Manatees roam beneath the surface.
An aggregation of manatees gathers in the springs.