Two hours North from the Tampa / St. Petersburg area, you will find the gem of Florida’s Nature Coast – Crystal River. Located near Kings Bay it is one of the best places on earth to observe manatees. In 2012, Crystal River was officially designated as a Manatee Refuge.
When the water temperature drops in the Gulf of Mexico, manatees move to the warmer waters of the Crystal River, followed closely by nature-loving tourists and other visitors. It is one of the few places where you can actually swim with the manatees. The water is only 72 degrees, so a wet suit is recommended. There are places to rent a suit nearby.
Crystal River hosts many popular festivals throughout the year – the Manatee Festival in January, Scarecrow Fest, Octoberfest, the Stone Crab Jam, the Scallop Festival, the 4th of July Fireworks Show and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade. If you like scallops, Crystal River is also a hot spot for capturing the little critters during scallop season. They are small bay scallops, which are delicious as a ceviche! A fun and rewarding day for adults and kids alike!
You will find all sorts of free entertainment in Crystal River. “Music in the Park” takes place at the gazebo behind City Hall the third weekend of every month. There are plenty of fine restaurants, cafes and pubs a short drive away.
Other area attractions include the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park, and ancient Indian Mounds at the Crystal River Archaeological State Park. This six mound complex is believed to have started around 200 B. C. and is considered one of the longest, continually occupied sites in Florida.
There are many RV parks and resorts in the area. Crystal Isles RV Resort is in the center of things and right on the water. Choose from a lake, river or ocean front site. There are also SuperSites, Canal Sites, large grassy sites and paved patios. Enjoy nearby Gulf beaches, shopping and golf courses. Whether you’re planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there’s no shortage of unique activities to explore at Crystal Isles RV Resort.
The resort has 254 sites, a clubhouse and fitness center, swimming pool, bike trails, fishing and a restaurant. There are free children’s programs and playground, a dance hall with a stage for live entertainment, plus square, line and ballroom dancing. Enjoy a bocci ball match and the weekly potluck dinner.
Treat yourself and your family with a visit to Crystal River where it’s laid back and welcoming folks will treat you right!
If your current RV isn’t in great shape and you’ve decided to buy a new one, come to Rocky Mountain RV and Marine to pick out an affordable replacement. It could be new or used but you will know you got the best RV for the best price at Rocky Mountain RV and Marine.
