Chassahowitzka River

The 5-mile-long (8 km)[1] river is home to hundreds of bird species, including the bald eagle, and serves as a common refuge for the West Indian manatee.

In 1941, approximately 31,000 acres (13,000 ha) of its saltwater creeks, freshwater tributaries, and hardwood hammocks were designated as Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge.

[2] A group of smaller sister springs are located in a creek just upstream from the main vent.

The river is well known for its navigational hazards, mainly due to large rocks hidden from the sight of fast-moving motorboats that venture outside the narrow channel.

There are cabins dotted along the outer portion of the river just before "Buzzard Bay," that are privately owned.