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How to swim, snorkel, or paddle in Three Sisters Springs
In-water recreation at Three Sisters Springs is accessible by launching a vessel from any of the public boat ramps or kayak launches on Kings Bay and navigating to the spring-run for Three Sisters. Public kayak launches can be found at:
- Hunter Springs Park, 104 NE 1st Ave, Crystal River
- King's Bay Park, 268 NW 3rd St, Crystal River
Visitors must arrive by paddle craft or motorized vessel to get to the spring run at Three Sisters Springs; however, motorized vessels are not permitted inside the Springs. Paddle-craft are permitted inside from April 1 to November 14.
There is NO water access to Three Sisters Springs from the refuge and no land access from the water.
For the safety and protection of the manatees, in-water access to Three Sisters Springs can be closed by US Fish & Wildlife Services (USFWS) when water temperatures in the Gulf Of Mexico drop below 62.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
Check the Crystal River NWR Facebook page for updates on temporary closures.
Important information:
- In-water access to Three Sisters Springs is open from sunrise to sunset daily (unless the springs are closed which can occur during manatee season)
- In-water access DOES NOT include access to the boardwalk. The boardwalk and property around the springs can ONLY be accessed through the City of Crystal River's services 8:30 am - 3:30 pm and daily admission fees apply.
- The boardwalk is separate from in-water recreating - the boardwalk is open every day and is not affected by US Fish &Wildlife Service in-water regulations.
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife regulates manatee sanctuaries in Three Sisters Springs and all of Kings Bay.
- Please read and obey all posted regulations. Know your Manatee Manners for Swimmers, Paddlers, and Boaters.
