Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge
Park Coastal refuge protecting springs, mangroves and wildlife
On Florida’s Gulf Coast, Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge protects coastal marshes and estuaries; visitors come for kayaking, birdwatching, manatee and fish habitat exploration and quiet paddling routes.
.jpg?width=1200)
Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge is a protected coastal and estuarine area on Florida’s Gulf Coast that conserves mangrove islands, tidal creeks and coastal hammocks. The refuge provides important habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds and other coastal wildlife, and it supports populations of wading birds and marine species.
The refuge is centered on the Chassahowitzka River system and adjacent marshes and islands on the Nature Coast of Florida; many areas have no road access and are best reached by small boat or kayak. It is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for habitat conservation, research and compatible wildlife-dependent recreation.
The refuge lies on the Gulf Coast of central Florida near the towns of Homosassa and Crystal River, in Citrus County and adjacent coastal waters.
- Access: Much of the refuge consists of mangrove islands, tidal creeks and estuarine habitat that are most easily visited by boat from nearby public boat ramps.
How to Get to Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge #
The refuge is along Florida’s Nature Coast; access points include county roads off US-19 and local launches near Homosassa and Crystal River. Boat access is the most useful way to explore the refuge’s waterways.
Tips for Visiting Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge #
- Bring a kayak or small boat to explore mangroves and backwaters; launch points are local and seasonal.
- Early morning is best for wildlife viewing-manatees, wading birds, and otters are most active then.
- Pack mosquito repellent and sun protection for long shoreline walks.
Best Time to Visit Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge #
Winter and spring are the best seasons for wildlife viewing and comfortable conditions; summers can be hot and prone to afternoon thunderstorms.
Weather & Climate near Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge #
Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 9°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1363 mm/year), wettest in August.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (167 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (192 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (217 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (165 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm).
.JPG?width=600)
