Crab Creek Spring On The Chassahowitzka River: A Hidden Gem for Nature Enthusiasts

Crab Creek Spring is a hidden gem along the Chassahowitzka River. It is known for its serene beauty and unique underwater features. Accessible only by watercraft, this spring is perfect for those seeking tranquility away from more crowded locations. The area is surrounded by private land and a large private home once home to the Spirit Yoga Center, a world-renowned Yoga retreat and vacation site.

The spring is part of a more extensive network of springs that feed into the Chassahowitzka River, contributing to its pristine ecosystem. Visitors can expect multiple spring vents within Crab Creek, creating an enchanting environment where freshwater flows in a picturesque setting. The depth of the spring basin ranges from 7 to 12 feet, making it a fascinating spot for exploration.

Kayakers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to the Chassahowitzka River for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Crab Creek, with its calm atmosphere and accessibility from the boat ramp, offers a unique escape for those wanting to experience the tranquility of Florida’s springs.

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About Crab Creek Spring

Crab Creek Spring is part of the Chassahowitzka River system in southwest Citrus County, Florida. The spring flows approximately 700 feet southwest into the Chassahowitzka River. Its entrance is 250 feet downriver from the local boat ramp. Small vessels or kayaks are typically the only ways to access the spring. Crab Creek Spring is classified as an underwater cave system. The ecosystem is vital to sustaining local wildlife and vegetation. The spring contributes to the flow and health of the Chassahowitzka River, reflecting the region’s natural beauty and diversity.

It’s one of my personal favorites. Why? Because few people visit it in favor of Seven Sisters Spring or The Crack. The land surrounding this spring is 100% private, another deterrent; however, there is no law prohibiting you from visiting and enjoying the water. I will explain the legality below!

History of Crab Creek Spring

Indigenous populations used the springs for sustenance and as gathering places. These natural resources provided essential water and food, fostering a deep connection to the land. The region gained further prominence in the early 20th century. In 1924, Homosassa Springs, including Crab Creek, was declared the world’s most beautiful river and springs. This recognition helped preserve the region’s natural state.

I mentioned that the land that surrounds Crab Creek Spring is private. The biggest spring here is directly under the balcony of a considerable home. While this home appears to be “empty,” or minus people, it is maintained, and private individuals own it. And to be clear, they own the structures and the land – not the springs!

When you first see the sheer size of the house, the boat house, or the former yoga studio, you immediately think, who could live here or own it? It’s the type of place you expect to be owned by a billionaire or a famous person. It’s not; investors own it. And if you look up the property on Zillow, you’ll quickly find out that it sits on a staggering 27.59 acres!

It was a yoga retreat long before the new owners acquired this place for $3.7M in 2022. Ironically, I remember viewing this property when it came on the market. It was listed for a lot more. And, even at $3.7M, it’s currently out of my league.

About The Former Yoga Retreat – Spirit Springs Yoga Retreat

Initially operated by William and Jane Shaw, Salt Spirit Springs Yoga Retreat hosted various community events and yoga training sessions, drawing individuals seeking relaxation and spiritual growth. Spirit Springs Yoga Retreat was established with a clear vision and purpose, aiming to create a sanctuary for wellness and community. Inspired by the region’s natural beauty, the founders sought to offer a space for personal growth through yoga and holistic practices.

The mission included providing a range of yoga classes, workshops, and community events designed to enhance well-being. The founders emphasized inclusivity, inviting people of all backgrounds and experience levels to participate. They aimed to instill a sense of community while encouraging mindfulness and self-discovery through various holistic practices.

There is also an impressive boardwalk meandering along the waterfront and between many of the property’s cabins and buildings. In addition to a stand-alone conference building, the venue features four wood cottages that can accommodate up to 32 people! 

The Closure of Spirit Springs Yoga Retreat

According to all sources, several elements contributed to the closure of Spirit Springs Yoga Retreat. The Shaws were approaching their seventies and wanted to travel and spend more time with their family. Economic challenges played a significant role. As competition from newer wellness centers emerged, attendance decreased over the years. Then, there were the rising operational costs and the repair work needed. The closure of the retreat marks the end of an era for many who cherished its serene atmosphere and holistic practices. 

How to Get To Crab Creek Spring

Since the property surrounding Crab Creek Spring is privately owned, you can only access it via a water vessel. Launching from The Chassahowitzka River Campground boat ramp is the easiest way to get there.

Chassahowitzka River Campground Address: 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448-5307

The Chassahowitzka River Campground provides a launch if you have your own vessel and rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Call the Campground directly at 352-382-2200 for reservations if you plan to rent. If you plan to launch your vessel, you pay for parking and do not need to call ahead.

Once ready to take off from the Chassahowitzka River boat ramp, paddle to the main river, hook a left, then the first right. It takes a maximum of ten minutes to paddle to Crab Creek Spring.

Recreational Activities At Crab Creek Spring On The Chassahowitzka River

• Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and Canoeing: The calm waters allow for smooth paddling experiences. This activity is especially popular among those looking to explore the river’s beauty.
• Fishing: Anglers often find opportunities to catch various fish species. The area is known for its abundant wildlife.
• Swimming: The clear spring waters provide for a refreshing swim. Many enjoy the natural setting for a leisurely day in the water.
• Wildlife Viewing: Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts frequent the area. Manatees and other native species can often be spotted, especially during warmer months.
• Photography: If you are a content creator or photography enthusiast, Crab Creek Spring is a dream come true.
• Diving: There are several spring heads and caverns at Crab Creek Spring. I can only assume that some have scuba-dived here. I would not recommend it purely because it’s not a managed park. However, you can free dive. If you do dive in any form, please do not attempt to swim through the connecting caverns. The cave system connects to the broader system, which links to Seven Sisters Spring. There have been unfortunate accidents in the past because people miss-gauded lengths,

The Legality of Accessing Crab Creek Spring On The Chassahowitzka River

Aside from who should have the right to visit Florida’s springs, one of the biggest debates is whether you can access them if the land surrounding them is privately owned. And by right to visit, I mean native Floridians who oppose the sharing of any spring. The argument is that they are not for tourists, non-locals, or non-natives – oh, the irony! We pay no state income tax due to tourism. Regardless, here are the legal facts about accessing Florida’s springs:

Can a landowner block public access to a spring, and it’s run legally?  What constitutes “Navigable Waters” depends on the definition. The state of Florida holds the right to a waterway if it is navigable. § 329.14 Determination Of Navigability(a) Effect on determinations. Although conclusive determinations of navigability can be made only by federal courts, those made by federal agencies accord substantial weight to the courts. Therefore, when jurisdictional questions arise, district personnel must carefully investigate those waters subject to Federal regulatory jurisdiction under the guidelines set out above, as the resulting determination may substantially impact a judicial body. Official decisions made by an agency in the past can be revised or reversed as necessary to reflect changed rules or interpretations of the law.

A person needs to consider whether, in 1845, the year Florida became a State if the waterway was potentially useful for public commerce or recreation. If so, absent additional considerations, title to the waters (including the land up to the high mean waterline) is vested in the State and NOT the property owner. ( https://www.theclosingagent.com/waterrights/ )

You can study up for yourself, but in laments terms, it boils down to this:

Unless the owner of the land surrounding the spring can prove the sovereign land of Florida above and beneath the spring is not a navigable waterway – you have every right to navigate and enjoy the spring. However, you cannot access the land.

Frequently Asked Questions

Closing Thoughts

The Chassahowitzka River is home to several breath taking springs and most of them are extremely accessible! In addition, ones like Crab Creek Spring are secluded. No crowds, no admission fees and often no sharing with others.

I personally love Crab Creek Spring, it’s one of my favorites. It is so peaceful that you feel as if you’ve been transcended into some mysterious undiscoved oasis, the type you dream of vs. get to experience.

If you are concerned about how to secure your water vessel – don’t be. Buy a kayak anchor and anchor your vessel in the water. Do not anchor to land or any of the structures.

Lastly, as with all springs in Florida – leave no trace behind you!

Looking For More Springs In Florida? Start Here:

• Blue Spring – Florida
• Crystal River & Three Sisters Spring
• De Leon Springs, aka “Ponce De Leon Springs State Park”
• Devil’s Den Florida – A Prehistoric Spring
• Homosassa Springs Florida
• Kelly Park – Rock Springs
• Kings Landing, Florida, and The Iconic Emerald Cut
• Rainbow Springs State Park
• Royal Springs – Suwannee County’s Hidden Gem
• Silver Glen Springs, Florida
• Silver Springs – One Of Florida’s Most Famous Springs
• Weeki Wachee Springs
• Wekiva Island, Florida – The Locals Retreat
• Wekiva Falls RV Resort – Sorrento’s Hidden Spring

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