Crystal Lake Rec Area Campground

Area Status: Open

Be sure to check the Alerts & Conditions webpage for any additional updates about the status of the campground, as well as fire and trail restrictions.

General Camping Info: Find helpful guidance and tips for an enjoyable trip to the forest!

Know Fire & Other Restrictions Before You Go!: These conditions can affect your entire trip. For example, Extreme and Critical fire use restrictions mean no campfires and no portable cooking systems/stoves. Bring cold food and no S'mores.

Be Bear Aware!: Bear safety is critical, for the safety of your group and/or you, as well as our bears. Help keep bears wild by following these tips.

Location: Outdoor adventures lie around every corner--including hikes to spectacular peaks of Mt. Islip and Windy Gap--or fishing in Crystal Lake (which is a mile-long hike from the campground).

Elevation: 5,539-feet in elevation

Amenities:

Visitor Center is open on weekends 9:00 A.M.- 4:00 P.M. (only Adventure passes sold here, no Interagency passes. Cash only.)
Total of 50 campsites with picnic tables spread through Loops A-D + I
Four loops (A-D) of campsites
Vault toilets (permanent non-flush/waterless toilets)
Maximum RV length is 22 feet--no hook-ups
Drinking water and water for washing your hands is available via outdoor faucets in Loops A, B, C, & D in front of the Crystal Lake Café
Campsites are first-come - first-served
Nearby Crystal Lake Cafe sells hot meals, sandwiches, and camping necessities, including firewood. Crystal Lake Café and General Store hours are Wed. - Mon. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. Open on major holidays.
Access road to lake is OPEN to vehicle traff
Visitor center open on weekends (next to cafe) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Restrictions:

No swimming
No camping at the lake

Camping Fee: $12 per night per site, $5 for extra vehicle

Day-Use Fee: $5 per vehicle. Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for day use and for vehicles parked outside the campground.

Fishing: CA State fishing license required

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	The Campground loops for camping A, B, C, D, and I are now OPEN for camping.
Operational Hours:	Open for day-use only at Fawnskin Picnic Area. Camping is available in Loops A, B, C, D and I. During winter months, campsite access is walk-in only and drive-in during the summer.
Reservations:	First-come, first-served only.
Fees:	$5 for day use. Camping: $12 for first vehicle and $5 for second vehicle per day/night during the summer; $5 per vehicle during the winter.
Open Season:	Spring
Usage:	Medium-Heavy
Restrictions:	See current fire restrictions
Water:	Yes for summer; No for Winter
Restroom:	Vault Toilets
Passes:	Information & Pass Sale
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Visitor Center is open on weekends 8:30 A.M.- 4:00 P.M. (only Adventure passes sold here, no Interagency passes. Cash only). For other office info, visit Information & Pass Sales.