Crane Lake was originally created many years ago by impounding Crane Pond Creek with an earth fill dam at the upstream end of a “shut-ins” or narrow gorge cut in the granite bedrock. The lake is about 100 acres in size and approximately 40 feet deep at the dam.
Beginning in July 2015, Crane Lake is undergoing a partial (12 foot) drawdown that will result in a lake that is approximately 40-50 acres in size. This is being done to complete maintenance and engineering studies. Once the water level begins to drop, boat launching will not be feasible. However, shoreline fishing, hunting and hiking at Crane Lake will continue to be permitted except immediately near the dam where the maintenance work will be occurring.
At a Glance
Current Conditions:
Crane Lake is undergoing a partial (12 foot) drawdown that will result in a lake that is approximately 40-50 acres in size. This is being done to complete maintenance and engineering studies. Once the water level begins to drop, boat launching will not be feasible. However, shoreline fishing, hunting and hiking at Crane Lake will continue to be permitted except immediately near the dam where the maintenance work will be occurring.
Operational Hours:
Open Year Round
Usage:
Light
Restrictions:
Electric motors only
Closest Towns:
Ironton, MO
Operated By:
U. S. Forest Service
General Information
Directions:
From Ironton, MO, take Hwy E south for 9 miles; right on Iron county road 124 for 2.5 miles; left on Iron County Road 131 for 2 miles.
Boat or bank fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish and panfish. Special regulations in effect-see bulletin board. Electric motors only. Gravel boat ramp.
Hours of Operation:
Gravel boat ramp inaccessible while partial drawdown in effect starting July 2015.
Hiking
SHOW
Day Hiking
Crane Lake National Recreation Trail. Five mile double loop trail, the south loop of which connects to the Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail.
Backpacking
Crane Lake National Recreation Trail. Five mile double loop trail, the south loop of which connects to the Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail.
Horse Riding & Camping
SHOW
Horse Riding
Crane Lake National Recreation Trail. Five mile double loop trail, the south loop of which connects to the Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail.
SHOW
