Crescent Lake.
Between Springerville &
Pinetop Lakeside AZ.

Location & Description. Crescent Lake is about 2 miles north of Big Lake and can rival fishing action of its "sister-lake". It is located at the junction of Highway 261 and Highway 273 (Forest Road 113). It is about 30 miles southwest of Springerville AZ and about 41 miles east of Pinetop Lakeside, Arizona in the Arizona White Mountains. The lake's elevation is about 9,000 feet making it one of the White Mountains' highest elevated lakes. The lake is surrounded by forests and rolling meadows. Access is generally limited from December to early April when access roads are closed due to heavy snow and ice. See Springerville Weather Chart.

Lake Size. The lake's water surface is about 130 acres with an average depth of about 10 feet.

Fish Variety. Crescent is a trout lake with populations of Rainbow and Brook Trout.

Fishing. Crescent is a good fly fishing lake when the wind is calm. Boat anglers have better luck than those fishing from the shore. Live bait is prohibited. Try trolling with flies or use spinners. Statewide fishing regulations apply and a trout stamp is required. The daily bag limit is six trout for adults or three for unlicensed youth under the age of 14, and may include any combination of the trout species.

Boating. Boat motors are restricted to electric or 10 hp or less gas motors.

Camping, Hiking & Amenities. Camping is prohibited at Crescent Lake, but there is camping available at Big Lake which is two miles away. There are three boat ramps, one of which is on the west side of the lake and usable during low water conditions. There are three sets of barrier -free toilets. A small concession store at the lake rents boats, sells bait and tackle, snacks and drinks during the season.

Nearest Lodging. The largest variety of hotels is Pinetop Hotels and Motels. Also consider Bed and Breakfasts in the White Mountains.

Arizona Lakes