Jurassic Spring
Citrus County
Summary of Features
Scale - 3rd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery - poor
How Pristine? - grossly polluted, adjacent to large buildings
Swimming - no
Protection - poor
Crowds - small
Access - boat only
Safety - unhealthy
Scuba - not recommended
Cost - free
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Directions
Located adjacent to an apartment/condominium complex near the eastern
end of the Hunter Spring run in Crystal River—see map.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery,
and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring,
go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at
the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring forms a circular pool about 60 feet in diameter that opens
directly into the Hunter Spring Run from the east side. The depth of the
pool could not be determined, as visibility was only about 6 inches. There
was no boil on the surface. Water in the spring and surrounding run was
a bright and unnatural green, and the water had an unpleasant smell when
visited in the late 
afternoon
in May 2001. There is a beach area on the east side of the pool, and a
plastic tube/pipe is strung across the mouth of the pool to prevent boat
access from the Hunter Spring Run. A pole near the spring has a sign calling
it Jurassic Spring, with a small plastic T-Rex on top.
Use/Access
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The spring is adjacent to an apartment or condominium complex, and access
is restricted to residents.
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The spring is or was apparently used for swimming, although the water was
so disgusting on date of visit that it is difficult to believe anyone would
ever venture into it.
Personal Impressions
Jurassic is the most polluted- and unpleasant-looking spring the authors
have ever visited, which is saying a lot. In the backwater of the Hunter
Spring run, the spring is not adequately flushed out by the tide. One of
the big, floating, plant-tearing machines had been working in the vicinity
earlier in the day, which may explain the fluorescent green color of the
water. Water that got onto JF’s hands while he was paddling left a burning
sensation on his skin.
Nearby Springs
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Other Crystal River/King’s Bay Springs (Artesian, Catfish, Gator [or Gator
Hole], Grand Canyon, Hunter, Idiot’s Delight, Independence, King’s, Little
Hidden, Mullet’s Gullet, Three Sisters, Unnamed Banana Island Springs,
Unnamed Spring Boils)
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Homosassa Springs Group
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Chassahowitzka Springs Group
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Rainbow Springs Group
Other Nearby Natural Features
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Rainbow Springs State Park
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Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
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Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge
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Withlacoochie State Forest
)
afternoon
in May 2001. There is a beach area on the east side of the pool, and a
plastic tube/pipe is strung across the mouth of the pool to prevent boat
access from the Hunter Spring Run. A pole near the spring has a sign calling
it Jurassic Spring, with a small plastic T-Rex on top.