In 1983, the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established for the specific purpose of protecting the endangered West Indian Manatee. Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, in Citrus County, this refuge preserves what is the last undeveloped and unspoiled habitat in Crystal Rivers' Kings Bay. The warm water springs of King's Bay provide a critical warm water haven for the over 400 manatees that migrate here each winter seeking shelter from the cold water temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 70 miles north of Tampa, and 90 miles northwest of Orlando. The refuge consists of 20 islands along with a few smaller parcels of land totaling approximately 80 acres. Within the refuge are 30+ springs that pump an estimated 600 million gallons of fresh water in to King's Bay on a daily basis. The number of springs, and the amount of flowing warm water, make the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge the most significant warm water refuge for manatees in the State of Florida. It is estimated that one fourth of the manatee population in the United States seeks refuge in Crystal River during the winter months.

Recently, the combined efforts of local, state, federal, and private organizations and individuals enabled the coveted Three Sisters Springs property to fall under the protection of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This land purchase was a significant victory in the further protection of the manatee's habitat.