12 Things to Do in Crystal River, FL

There are plenty of things to do in Crystal River, FL, whether you're here for a weekend or the whole winter. This part of the Nature Coast is full of clear springs, slow rivers, wildlife and small towns. Here are 12 favorites our guests at Quail Roost RV Park love, all within an easy drive of your site.

On the water

1. See the manatees

Crystal River is called the Manatee Capital of the World. From mid-November through March, manatees gather in the warm springs of Kings Bay. Take a guided boat tour, or watch from shore.

2. Walk the Three Sisters Springs boardwalk

The boardwalk looks down into some of the clearest water in Florida. In winter, it's one of the best land spots to see manatees.

3. Kayak or paddleboard Kings Bay

Rent a kayak and explore the bay and its spring runs at your own pace. Mornings are calm and quiet.

4. Float the Rainbow River

Head to Dunnellon for a lazy tube float on crystal-clear spring water. Read our Rainbow River tubing guide.

5. Go scalloping in summer

From early summer into September, snorkel the shallow Gulf grass flats for bay scallops. Our scalloping guide covers the basics.

6. Cast a line

Fish the Crystal River, the Homosassa River or the Gulf flats for redfish, trout and more. Charters run out of both towns.

On land

7. Visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

See manatees from an underwater observatory, plus native Florida wildlife up close.

8. Play a round of golf

Citrus County has several golf courses close to the park, and the winter weather is made for it.

9. Ride the bike trails

Paved trails in the area make for easy rides under the trees. Bring your bike, or ride the loops inside the park.

10. Explore downtown Dunnellon

Browse small shops and eat at family-owned restaurants in this historic river town.

11. Catch a local festival

The Florida Manatee Festival, holiday parades and seasonal events keep the calendar full.

12. Take a day trip

The Gulf beaches, Busch Gardens and Disney World are all doable as day trips when you want a bigger outing.

Or stay put and relax

Some days, the best plan is no plan. At Quail Roost you can swim in our heated pool, work out in the fitness center, borrow a book from the library, or join a game of shuffleboard or horseshoes. Every week, something is happening in the clubhouse.

Ready to explore? See our rates and pick a site on the park map.