Three Sisters Springs

Photo Credit: City of Crystal River

Now, I know what you are thinking, and I understand that Citrus County Florida may not have the “dream” Florida vacation appeal of say, Walt Disney World or Universal Studios in Orlando, however, what makes Citrus County and its natural beauties so special is that it is the hidden gem of the Nature Coast. The cherry on top of all Citrus Counties beauties is one natural treasure that is so tucked away it's almost invisible to the outside world, and up into 3 years ago was only accessible by water. What is this hidden treasure you may ask?

 Three Sister Springs.

What is Three Sisters Springs? Well throughout this blog I will convince all you naysayers that my favorite watering hole is more than your average lake or river. Picture this: 
Crystal clear water that stretches for miles, a cool breeze rippling through the trees, the mixture of the slight smell of water plants and suntan lotion and silence...a total silence except for the movement of the small waves on the water bank. 
It is the exact picture of what the rest of the country...the rest of the world...thinks Florida is or should be, a modern day Eden hidden away in the small county on the Gulf Coast.

Location

I first discovered Three Sister Springs when I moved to Florida back in the summer of 2005. I had just moved down from Chicago and since it was the middle of the summer I had little opportunity to make friends. So I spent most of my days wandering around trying to find something to do. One day I decided to take out my brothers kayak and started paddling around Kings Bay and ended up finding this little slice of heaven. I did not know then that this place is where I go to think, to cry, to really just sit and appreciate the world around me.
The Springs are located in the heart of could be considered “downtown” Crystal River, Florida.  This paradise is made possible by a complex structure of three different spring areas, hence the name “Three Sisters”. Each spring area has deep seated vents and sand boils that flow into Crystal River’s beautiful Kings Bay.

 Wildlife

These natural hot springs pumping into Three Sisters also form one of the most vital natural warm-water sanctuaries for the endangered Florida manatee. The opening of the Three Sisters Springs is shaped by large concrete pillars to prevent large motor powered boats from gaining access to their habitat. Large boat motors are one of the leading causes of manatee injuries and deaths in Florida. The winter months are when the springs become so crucial to the manatee population. On a particularly chilly day in January 2011, a federal biologist counted more than 200 manatees in Three Sisters and the outer sanctuaries (Florida Dept of Wildlife Protection). What is so magical about Three Sisters springs is that the spring fed water will always remain at a constant temperature of 72 degrees, providing ideal conditions for this peaceful species. 72 degrees may sound like heaven during the winter months all those who wish to swim with the manatees during these months are advised to wear a protective wetsuit.

Access

The video to the left shows a path of how the Springs can be accessed by water 

(Video credit to YouTube account slower5086)

While large vessels cannot make the journey into Three Sisters that does not mean it is not accessible to the public. In fact, these pillars not only protect the manatees but you can rest easy knowing that you and your children can swim safely. Only snorkelers, canoers  and kayakers can enter the springs, by water. Until 2010, Three Sisters Springs was only accessible by water, which made is difficult for large families to enjoy the beauty. However, in the summer of 2012, concentrated effort began to raise funds to purchase Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River for the sole purpose of preservation, in hopes that it would outlast the generations. The move was successful and enough Funds were raised for Citrus County to create a low impact public access recreation area. The City of Crystal River, along with Florida Fish and Wildlife maintain these areas. Most recently a boardwalk has been built surround the springs for the public to view the manatees from a platform (City of Crystal River 2011).

Bright Future and Activities

Photo Credit: City of Crystal River

 Recently the City of Crystal River announced the intended future plans for the nearly 60 acres of land that are currently surrounding the springs. They intend to use this land  surrounding Three Sisters Springs as an activity area for visitors, gearing towards children there will be an  environmental educational and an informational visitor center for Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. They also plan to clear out some of the brush to create nature trails and bikeways (City of Crystal River City Council 2011).

Paradise At a Glance: 
The Do’s and Don'ts of Three Sister Springs Park and Recreation

Activities:  

• The activity that I enjoy the most  has to be swimming, if you have the stamina you can swim all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. 
• While it has never been my favorite activity, snorkeling and in a smaller capacity scuba diving is possible, as well. 
• Like I mention earlier in this post large vessels are not allowed and cannot make it into the Springs, however, small boating and kayaking are allowed and a great way to interact with the wildlife, with activities like fishing. 
• The most popular activity for most visitors, however, would have to be manatee and other wildlife viewing/interacting. 
• Finally, as long as no trash or food is left behind there is also a beautiful picnic area where you can have the beautiful springs and trees as a backdrop for a romantic or family meal.

Entrance Fee: 

At this time, The City of Crystal River is not charging the public to enjoy the beauty of the Springs, which makes this site perfect for the family or teens on a budget.

  

Onsite Camping: 

• While you may want to stay forever, overnight camping is a definite DON'T at Three Sisters Springs.
•  Park hours are generally from sunup to sundown  
• Don't believe me? You maybe able to doze off, but you will be awake by one of our very friendly Citrus County Sheriff's deputies, who will escort you off the premises. (CC Board of County Commissioners 2012)

Type of Park:
National Wildlife Refuge

 For more information please contact

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Office

1502 S.E. Kings Bay Drive

Crystal River, FL 34429

Phone: (352) 563-2088

References

Citrus County Board of County Commissioners (2012). Citrus County Board of County Commissioners Official Website. Retrieved April 6, 2013, from http://www.bocc.citrus.fl.us/

City of Crystal River Council (2011). City of Crystal River, FLORIDA. Retrieved April 5, 2013, from http://www.crystalriverfl.org/

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (2012). Welcome | Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Retrieved April 5, 2013, from http://www.dep.state.fl.us/