The Crystal River Archaeological State Park can best be described as a neat little handicap-accessible birding trail. All the trails are paved. The site is 26 acres of upland partial woodland with coastal frontage along the Crystal River, adjacent to the Crystal River Preserve State Park.

The site has a mix of freshwater swamp, waterfront on the Crystal River, wooded areas and scrub, providing a varied habitat. The site is a National Historic Landmark and contains pre-Columbian mound structures of archaeological significance.

The Archaeological State Park is north of the Crystal River Mall on US19. Turn west at the Days Inn on State Park Street for a mile, left on Museum Pointe Rd. to the parking lot. Small Fee required.

The park provides an opportunity to explore Indian Mounds, Temple, Burial, and Midden. After birding, allow time to visit the museum.

It will take a couple hours to walk the park-proper and climb the Temple Mound (50 steps) for the beautiful view of the Crystal River. A spotting scope is in order here. The park provides boat tours on the Crystal River, which give further opportunities for birding. Check with the Park Office for schedules.

The Archaeological Park provides upland habitat for passerines. To see them, walk the edge of the parking lot to the entrance gate, and also watch for hawks, vultures, kites, and osprey. Great warbler area in spring. The riverfront provides anhinga, herons, egrets, gulls, terns, and pelicans.

Photography by Bill Garvin