Moon over the Mounds

Experience a nighttime guided tour into the history of this Pre-Columbian Ceremonial Site. Led by experienced interpreters, the one-hour walking tour begins at the Museum. Learn about the Ancient River Dwellers and the cultural, historical, and ecological importance of this gathering place. We recommend bringing a flashlight and bug spray.

Learn about the Native American Pre-Columbian Ceremonial Mound Complex. This site is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Florida. The site was occupied between 1000 BC and about 1300 AD. The site is on the Crystal River halfway between the freshwater springs of Kings Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It is a 61-acre park and sits on the edge of an expansive coastal marsh.

The view from the Temple Mound (Mound A) is truly astonishing under a full moon. Mound A is near the river and built sometime after 600 AD. Mound A was made from oyster shells by the Ancient River Dwellers. It was originally much larger (longer and wider). From the top of the mound the entire complex can be viewed. When the site was occupied this magnificent oyster mound could be seen from miles away on the river.

The Burial Mounds date to about 250 BC. The marker stones at the second burial mound are common in Central and South America. It is thought that 1500 people are buried at the mounds. Burial practices changed over the 2000 years that this area was occupied. People traveled great distances to bury their dead here. Copper jewelry found here originated in the upper Ohio River Valley and is thought to be here due to trade. You will learn about this trade route and practice on the tour.

To attend this almost majestical experience go to: https://friendsofcrystalrivers...
In conjunction with the State Park the tours are supported by the Friends of Crystal State Parks, Gulf Archaeological Research Institute and Florida Public Archaeological Network.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour. It is suggested that guests bring a flashlight and bug repellent.