Prior to Your Visit
Tips for your Trip
Hints to maximize your experience at Crystal Springs Preserve!
Dress for the weather and the opportunity to have a once in a lifetime experience! A hat, sunscreen and bug spray are important to have on sunny days. We run our programs rain or shine so bring a rain poncho, just in case!
Nothing is better than swamp stomping or wading in a river! For visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature all students, parents, and teachers, must wear closed toe shoes that can get wet and muddy! Water shoes or old sneakers are the best option. CROCS AND FLIP FLOPS ARE NOT ALLOWED FOR WATER-BASED PROGRAMMING!!! Students who do not have the proper footwear will not be able to participate in water programs for their own safety.
We will be waiting for your arrival! When you pull up to the big blue gate, we will open it for you! Once you enter, follow the signage to the Learning Lab and park at the main lot. We have many gopher tortoises that make Crystal Springs Preserve their home along with other animals. Please observe the posted speed limit of 5 mph to ensure everyone’s safety.
We are a ‘pack-it-in, pack-it-out” preserve! This keeps our wildlife naturally hunting and fishing instead of searching for human food. There is no food vending onsite, so we ask that visitors bring enough food and water for the duration of their field trip. Any food brought in, including its packaging, must leave with your group. Please bring trash bags to collect any trash. Thank you!
Hiking and enjoying the great outdoors can work up a thirst! Water bottles are strongly encouraged!
Our Living Laboratory is home to our reptile ambassadors, food or beverages are not allowed in the classroom. Permitted in the classroom are visitors with a smile and desire to learn more about Florida’s amazing wildlife.
Buildings, bathrooms, boardwalks, and paved trails are accessible; however, some activities go off trail which may prove difficult for some wheelchairs or walkers. Please contact us directly if you need any additional information.
To protect against accidental forest fires and to experience the sweet smells of nature, no smoking or vaping is allowed on site.
All visitors to Crystal Springs are required to have a signed waiver submitted as a part of their reservation confirmation (minors must have theirs signed by their parent of legal guardian) prior to their scheduled visit.
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