Plenty hiking opportunities, refreshing air, and a nice scenic drive in. Be sure to have a full tank, as there is no gas services. There is a cafe/ convenience store across from the campground where you can also purchase your day use park pass for $5. I experienced a foggy day, which gave a cooling effect to my hiking. Restrooms are vault toilets, so unpleasant smells and a mess are a given. The lake has lots of swampy algae, therefore not appropriate for swimming or water sports. However, they do allow fishing with permit. I am a nature enthusiast and it was saddening to see the lack of humans respect for nature, with graffiti and trash in some areas of the park. Crystal lake definitely could use more funding to preserve its natural beauty. The loveliest part is listening to woodpeckers as they work, watching an eagle fly above with a fish in its talons, and treading quietly not to startle the squirrel who is crossing my path. I suggest picking up a map with hiking trails from the rangers post or convenience store, before planning your day! read more

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Very beautiful place. Just an hour's drive from La Crescenta, much closer than Big Bear. There's still snow there, the road is clear, and along the way, there's a mountain stream and a reservoir where you can stop. Download a map in advance, as there's no signal there. There's a small lake where you can take a walk, and a forest with a cozy family café where you can grab a snack. read more

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I walked around the lake but did not stay to camp! That's definitely going to be happening soon! Just go east and you'll hit multiple trails! Looking forward to coming back. Very beautiful read more

We went 2/22, a hidden winter gem. The scenery was absolutely stunning with snow, pine trees, and clear water. It's quiet, clean, and perfect for hiking or just enjoying the view. Make sure to wear proper shoes because the snow can be slippery read more

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Definitely, a place you want to experience if you're into being outdoors. They have a little something for everyone. You have the convenience of Post store while camping, staying in a cabin, hiking or going in the water. A home away from home type of place being in the wilderness.‍ read more

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I finally went to Crystal lake when it was open! I had read on Facebook that it was open so went there to check it out. Had lunch at the Cafe and ate a hamburger which was pretty good. Ate on the patio. The smell of pine trees in the air. I drove around the camp grounds and they looked nice. I was disappointed in the lake. Didn't look like the pictures. Water was low and green. read more

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If you love the outdoors and also like places that are isolated from other people and are looking for some real alone time with you and nature than here is the place to go! read more

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Great place to camp and get away from thr city lights. Campsite care taker is very friendly and helpful

I was invited here by a member. Not sure it's open to the public. The good...beautiful setting in the mountains. Two private fishing lakes. Best day for fishing is stocking day or day after. The bad... We only got 3 trout between the three of us fishing 8 hours. I've done better at urban ponds. The ugly...The store is super over priced. $9 for worms. read more

Peaceful escape from the city. Windy drive but definitely worth it. Beautiful natural surroundings! I went at night to watch the stars.

This is a wonderful area to go camping and hiking at multiple trails. If you want to get out of the city and want to explore what nature has to offer, you gotta come here at Crystal Lake! remember to buy an adventure pass. read more

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*This is a review for the Crystal Lake Loop hike to Mount Islip* We did this hike for the first time on last Friday (6/12/20). I had hiked to Mount Islip a couple times but from the Highway 2 side (northern side) and wanted to try it from starting on this side of the mountain (the southern side). Parking- the lot closest to the lake was closed so we parked in a lot .3 miles before it so this added .6 miles to our total hike; be sure to display your Adventure Pass and to make sure you don't leave anything visible of value in your car Trail- one of the great things I liked about this hike was we encountered less than 5 people on the hike; we did the loop to Mount Islip clockwise...when you reach the lake at the beginning of the hike you must go around the lake counter-clockwise though; the trail was beautiful and I saw the most butterflies I have ever seen on a hike and I have been on over 200 hikes probably; some great views as you approach Mount Islip and get above 7k feet elevation...when you reach the peak you will be at over 8200 feet; the second half of the trail has some parts that are a bit overgrown and at 6'2" I had to do some ducking; there were also a few places where it is not so clear which way you should go so it was helpful to have my AllTrails app to help navigate; at the peak of you will see the remnants of living quarters for the person who would live up there and the foundation of the fire lookout Stats: 11.7 miles (could be more like 10.5 miles if the parking lot closer to the lake was open and we got off trail a few times that added about half a mile; took us about 5.5 hrs so I would say give yourself between 5-7 hrs to complete; about 2900 ft of elevation gain *some people might feel the effects of the altitude once you get above 7k feet *also it is a long, winding drive on Highway 39 to reach this place read more

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Living in the San Gabriel Valley it's a bit of a drive to go to Lake Arrowhead, Mammoth or Big Bear. Fortunately there is a hidden gem right off of the Azusa Canyons. Basically you get off the 210 freeway, drive North on Azusa towards Crystal Lake. From the base of Azusa to Crystal lake can take you around 30 to 40 minutes. Throughout the drive you can stop along the way to check out the Morris Dam and San Gabriel Dam, look at the big monster trucks in the Offroading Playground, pan for gold and stop by the rivers and streams along the way. You may see lots of law enforcement or military going up and down the stretch because of the outdoor shooting range. I highly recommend driving towards Crystal Lake right after it rains. The roads will be cleared of snow and you basically can drive halfway up and stop by the rest stop and play with snow. Crystal does have a small hole in a wall cafe and areas for you to run around. But again I recommend stopping once you see snow :) read more

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Oh! Crystal Lake! We went two straight days up in the mountains during Thanksgiving long weekend, the snow was really good! I was like wowowowowowed all the way to the top! Not gonna lie, for a second, I thought I was in Japan or some other European countries! It's unreal! That kind of snow in SoCal? You have to see it by yourself! Some useful tips: 1. During our last visit, no snow chains are needed! Very safe to drive! 2. Go as early as possible, the parking situation wasn't great! 3. Driving to Crystal Lake cafe is probably not a good idea, (you can walk if you like) we tried it twice to get there (at 2pm and 10:30am), the traffic was insanely awful! People just parked where ever they liked, and everyone was literally stuck on the road! (It took us around 40 mins to get close to the parking lot, but still they asked us to turn back) The police did show up, but honestly, nothing really changed the whole situation! 4. Pack yourself some snacks, food and water, there's no place to buy food! (Only Crystal Lake cafe) And it takes another 30-40 mins to go back to the city! So, get prepared! 5. No public toilets at all! (=Don't drink too much water!) 6. Bring a shovel if you have one, just in case your car is stuck in snow. We've seen a few cars struggled. A pair of waterproof pants and gloves are needed if you are planning to play in the snow! 7. Annual parking pass is $30. You can buy $5 one day pass on your way up to the hill. The weather forecast shows that it's gonna rain again this coming weekend, I believe there's a high chance to see the snow again! Get prepared + Enjoy the stunning view! read more

Crystal Lake - We woke up at 8am for this! Worth it! - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

went camping here! the workers at the cafe are so kind and helpful. it was our first time camping. it was safe and they had all the amenities mentioned in the angeles forest website except no running water in the bathrooms but they had a faucet at the cafe(luckily we were close). the scenery is beautiful! so clean! lots of trash cans everywhere! the informational board. $12 for a night and $5 for day stay and 5$ for extra cars when camping. THE ENVELOPES ARE IN THAT SLOT. ITS CONFUSING WITH PPLS RANDOM STICKY NOTES. follow instructions of the green "fee required" sign read more

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Great place to go to and have fun a lot of photos over here to take nice place to take and see read more

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Every year around December my family and I like to come here to go to the snow, we used to go to Mt Baldy but the line to get to the top is insane. So we took a chance and decided to try this mountain just to play in the snow for a few hours, and we made the best decision, there was absolutely no line of cars driving up, so driving up to the top went smoothly, there wasn't no steep cliffs without railing, we did not need any chains going up, and there was so much snow to play, we made a snowman and we took snacks up there and you can take sleds to ride down hills, you don't need to pay for parking or anything, all of it is free, you just drive up with your family, park we're you want to get off and play, I definitely recommend anyone who wants to have a snow day to come here, you won't be disappointed. read more

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Amazing place to disconnect and enjoy nature no cell phone no internet before you go up be ready to be absolutely disconnected from the world read more

Very accessible about an hour north of Azusa. Try to go during weekdays with less traffic. We went after the recent rainfall and we're lucky enough to see active snow showers and several inches of snowy goodness to walk through. Watch the drive up- if you're going all the way to the cafe before the 2 highway likely will need chains if you don't have AWD. Saw lots of people with their cars off to the side of the road and several accidents. Still, remarkable to drive all the way up to the hiking paths! read more

Crystal Lake - Crystal Lake Cafe - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

Nice place to visit..beautiful trees,rocks view,pinecones and lots of picnic tables.The gift shop owner was really nice and it's just sad that some cats were dumped in the area to fend for themselves.Saw a black cat i named midnight.Bought a burger and a can of tuna for him.The only thing i didn't like were the restrooms.All of them were dirty.There's no so the toilet is just like a plastic toilet with a hole.There was poop lining the seats.It was also sad that guests littered everywhere.Used masks,cigarettes,sanitizing wipes and more.Trash cans are provided yet people don't care to keep the area clean.It's a nice place to take videos and photos..Bring water to wash your hands,alcohol wipes and spray. read more

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Beautiful secluded spot in the mountains! Went up during the week with virtually no other visitors. - Took the scenic route up the winding mountain road ~1 hr. Be wary of racers and move off to the side whenever necessary. - Parked in a lot near the turnoff, but there are multiple free places to park along the road with various other lots as well. We risked parking without a pass and didn't get caught - Steepish staircase leading to the lake - Lake was small but still beautiful! A truly serene and quiet environment. Perfect for a picnic! - Further up the road there are fantastic views of the mountains and skyline! read more

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Could find the lake at all, so don't get lost. And the road are to steep, so don't waste your time

So peaceful relaxing, we had lunch then took some pictures of the trees and simply enjoyed the atmosphere together. read more

Crystal Lake - Natalie likes it too! - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

I love the great outdoors, so Crystal Lake has to be bad to rate one star from me. Not so bad if you look at historical photos. "The only natural lake in these mountains" was indeed beautiful. It was probably the most popular destination in the Angeles National Forest, and so it was built up with a large campground, amphitheater, store, cabins, etc., etc. I think it was privately owned, then taken over by the Forest Service. The large campground probably got the use to justify it. Now . . . wellllllllllll . . . I stayed in the campground one night, wanting to check out the closed portion of Highway 39 the next day, and see what all the fuss is about with Crystal Lake. I saw about the lake, all right. It's the saddest excuse for a lake that I've ever seen. 1/4 of its normal size. Puke green, not crystal clear. I didn't go near the lake, but even from the end of the staircase, I could still smell a stench. If you camp here, it's to get away from the city for a little bit, or hike in the area. If you love to swim, fish, or go boating, don't even think about Crystal Lake until several years in a row of huge rainstorms. With the Forest Service's policy of "au naturel", let nature fill the lake itself, I don't see Crystal Lake getting any better. Please, go somewhere else. read more

Crystal Lake - 7/22/16 - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

Been meaning to write this review (It was quite awhile ago we went), as it's solely for the Hiking Portion of it. As for the lake, sad to say, it's getting smaller and smaller and doesn't really exist. :( (*of course there is a serious drought situation in California, so just be understanding of that before driving out) Camping too, didn't look like it'd be fun, saw people like they were all at the Hippie fest, all out in the open, all loud and shouting. How is that considered roughing it in the woods with nature when you hear people shouting out so Ghetto! Anyhow, that's not what my review's about, but if it were, I'd give it the one star sadly. On to my review of the hiking in Crystal lake forest. It was nice, empty (reading above, you know right away) and beautiful! Cool mountain air and shaded through out for the most part. Some open hiking trails alongside the main road, but didn't hardly see any vehicles the day we went. We went to the info office that's across the way of the Café/General store and they were very informative and gave us a map. They said we could either do a short hike or the day long hikes, but I'm not quite there for the tremendous inclines way up above (but I do aspire someday to achieve that goal!). We did the loop and ended up on the trail to the lake. WOW! I saw two people sitting there attempting to fish and a group of people off to the side just sitting there watching to see if anyone was going to come by, because why would anyone want to hang out there? Really? The obvious reason is the critical situation of the drought in California. I think driving up, we saw some water dripping through rocks. Seemed hopeful., but no that was just in certain areas and the higher you drove up, the drier it seemed. It's really sad to see that the once flourishing lake is no more., for how long? I have no clue. Anyhow, aside from the disappointment of the lake, everything else was all good. They have lots and lots of trails that I can't possible see it getting that bad in being crowded. And there's plenty of parking throughout the area, and you have to have your Adventure pass displayed. And that's just Crystal lake, there is so much more out there, I did the Road to Nowhere a few years ago and that was long, kicked my butt and I'd strongly advise going w/a group and a leader that knows the trail very well. For these other ones, I think you can get by, just make sure to have the map and always ask the people there so you know what your getting into. The café/General Store was nice too, they serve a small variety of hot food and have snacks and supplies for whatever your need, beware it's priced a little higher, so a trip to Walmart/Target for the same items might not be a bad idea. Bring your supplies as always, even though it's shaded, you'll hit some open spots and bring bug spray - I kept getting bugs allover my eyes and face. You can hear the flying insects buzz loudly! read more

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I'm 65 and when I was 8 my grandfather taught me to fish at Crystal lake. I've been back from time to time and you're right the water is low

Beautiful location to hang out with the family... nice trails, just don't go alone at night because there is groups of drunk teenagers hanging out in the area! Be carful and enjoy the wilderness! read more

Crystal Lake - Steep cliffs - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

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I really like that this is the closest to my home when my family wants to go to the snow. The way up is okay until you hit the steep slope on snowy weather when getting to Crystal Lake Cafe. If you don't have the all weather tires your most likely going to turn around to head back down, even with chains. We had chains on and our vehicle began to spin around trying to go up the slope. We decided to turn around for safety, since we didn't want to end up falling off the cliff. Hopefully next time we make it all the way up and try the café place! On the way down on rainy conditions just be careful with mudslides and rocks falling. A car got stuck in mud and was no longer able to continue. Make sure you are prepared going out to the mountains when it's snowing and drive with caution! read more

Crystal Lake - Driving while raining - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

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it's so beautiful but getting there is dirty but it worth going to seem the beautiful views

3rd time coming here. Spent my boyfriend's 23rd birthday here. Came for only one night but was it was so breathtaking we spent a second night. Gets really cold in April still. Spent the night in 33 degree weather. We were engulfed by a cloud, then later at night it was crystal clear and many stars were visible. I recommend heading further up the road. More secluded but it's a local place not far from cities so you'll feel safe. Felt like we were alone, but had a couple of neighbors around but not near by at all. Spacious lots read more

Crystal Lake - Lovely fog for any of you gloomy peeps - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

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It was my first time visiting today and even though the lake isn't much, I like how quiet and peaceful it is. It's like a hidden retreat from the city! Also, the hiking trails are the real essence of this place. Bring some good running shoes and enjoy nature! read more

Crystal Lake - Crystal Lake - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

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I wasn't able to find the spot. If you search the address it takes you to a location in front of a gated community. My guess is it's only visible from there since my friend and I weren't able to see it. read more

This review is for the hike to Mount Islip, as there is no dedicated place to review this hike. The hike starts from Crystal Lake Recreation Area and is about 8.5 miles roundtrip with 2,250' elevation. The trail is primarily single file and mostly unshaded with loose rocks underfoot. The incline is not too steep but is steadily uphill for most of the way. About 1 or so miles into the hike, you will see a sign - take the Windy Gap trail for 1.4 miles (there are actually 2 trails to the right of this sign - take the one right next to the sign. On the way up, you will see a sign pointing you in the correcton direction (left) to continue on to Mt. Islip. If you want a slightly longer hike, take the opposite direction and it will take you to the same destination. The landscape along the way is interesting, the views are nice and there is a slight breeze at the top and on Windy Gap trail. It's a good but not a killer workout. read more

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San Gabriel Canyon Part Three Local photos are posted The day following this bike ride to Crystal Lake, my girlfriend and I drove to play in the snow where Hwy 2 and the 39 meet. I never needed reassurance of how fine the closed portion of hwy 39 is to ride but driving Angeles Crest Hwy on this beautiful sunday just raised its value to divine proportions. For a moment I felt like we were in line for a Disney ride. Three weeks previous to winters first storm I pedaled up old Beach Blvd to the summit. The storm dropped just over a foot at Mount Wilson observatory. The second storm came through for christmas. Two days later I rode up to Crystal Lake looking for snow. Many cliffs and their adjacent roads that were stable and free of debris a month earlier were now in constant collapse, strewn with rocks of various sizes. Riding by with care as pebbles were raining down the cliff was a bit spooky. When I came back down the mountain these areas were still crumbling away. This is a good sign, if or when the road is opened again to cars, surly all the falling rocks alone would be reason to close it during the winter months. I made it as far into the campground as I felt safe and after the third time my back wheel slipped on an icy patch of road I figured it wise to halt there and turn around. Obviously riding solo means a bit more caution. My goal was to be surrounded on all four sides by the white stuff and I had made it. I tried to prepare for the climate and for the most part I was. What I wasn't ready for was the cold wind on my face during the first part of the descent. For a bit I was worried about frost bite. I couldn't get down the mountain to the warmer air fast enough, and steering through the mini landslides was like navigating through an astroid field. This has to be one of the best bike rides in southern california. A true classic. read more

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Going up to the mountains? Stop here for some local advise and snacks. Loved riding my bicycle from Duarte up to The cafe and enjoying a coke and burger. The owner and son are very friendly and helpful. read more

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The road to crystal lake is finally open again!!! Yay! The campgrounds look beautiful. I hiked part of the way from Crystal Lake to Mt Islip. And I can't wait to explore more of this beautiful part of the mountains again! read more

Crystal Lake - On the trail from crystal lake to Mt Islip - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California

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This area is very nice. It's not too crowded, but has enough people to show it's something people know about. The trail to the lake is pretty easy if you go from the Crystal Lake Campground; it's parallel to a road which leads to the parking lot at crystal lake, which you can take with a car. At 3pm, September 5, there was a lot of shade a long the small trails (70% coverage). Now the really sad part (9/5/2016): Crystal Lake. It is almost completely algae covered. It's more like a swamp than a lake. It looks like it could easily dry up. The cool thing is, there's some wildlife around the lake. Tiny frogs small as a thumb and lots of lizards. Come here during spring, not end of summer if you want a nice lake! read more

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Very nice place. Came here for the snow. It was actually my first time in the snow. Pretty small. No overnight camping unless in cabin. 45 minutes drive from entrance of Azusa. Very cool. Also have a little cafe. Don't go for the lake though the lake sucks. read more

I visited this spot with my bro. We just decided to hop in the truck and take a trip up Azusa canyon just to see how far we could get. Well we ended up here. I do t think this is the spot where Kason took his revenge on the campers. There definitely are campers though. A lot of camping ground and very semiconductor at night. Find the right spot and you can see for miles. You can even see the LA skyline clear as day. Or as clear as it can get with LA smog. Very peaceful up here. It's close by and an excellent spot if you're looking to get away. Oh yeah and if you hear rustling in the bushes followed by a breath that sounds like ha ha ha run! read more

Ok? I don't do any hiking. So I can't comment on the trails Lol.but.. I can comment on the scenery. During the week when there's no plumbing calls? I enjoy driving up the canyons to the top.its real relaxing and quite.you know ?think about one's goals and just a peaceful time.. if you are ever bored and want to do something we have the best canyons right in our own backyard. I recommend pulling over and finding a big rock to sit on and enjoy the mountains. Bring a lunch or a cold adult beverage. (Please put the trash in the cans). If you haven't been up there since the fires shut it down for 10 years. I highly recommend. read more

Crystal Lake - Top of the canyons - Parks Near Me - Azusa, California