Three Sisters Springs will be temporarily closed over the weekend.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said more than 250 manatees have gathered at the springs over the past few days, and they are expected to stay there throughout the weekend thanks to cold temperatures.
Officials said manatees are highly vulnerable to cold weather and so they gather in warm water whenever temperatures drop. When weather becomes unusually cold, manatees will become almost motionless so they can conserve energy.
The large number of resting manatees in the area has also caused turbidity to increase in the water, which has reduced visibility, officials said. They said this is another factor in their decision to close the springs to visitors.
Officials said they expect to keep the springs closed through Sunday, and that they will reopen the area once conditions are suitable for recreation.
Officials said people are still welcome to visit Kings Bay and see manatees at several spots around the area. Boaters in the area are asked to exercise caution as manatees are likely to be found resting in waterways throughout the area.