Crescent Lake

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on May 4, 2026.

Crescent Lake Near Big Lake, Arizona

Crescent Lake, located near Big Lake in Arizona’s White Mountains, is a scenic high-elevation destination known for its excellent trout fishing and peaceful forest setting. Sitting at over 9,000 feet, the lake is stocked with rainbow and brown trout and offers calm waters ideal for small boats, kayaks, and float tubes. Surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain terrain, Crescent Lake also provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in a cool, refreshing environment.

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 is 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.

Why Visit Crescent Lake

Visitors traveling to White Mountain Lakes enjoy Crescent Lake for its quieter atmosphere and consistent fishing, making it a great alternative to more heavily visited lakes nearby. Its remote feel, combined with easy access and beautiful surroundings, creates an ideal setting for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to relax and enjoy Arizona’s high country.

Lake Size

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

Fish Variety

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

Fishing at Crescent Lake

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.

Best Fishing Spots at Crescent Lake

• Open Water by Boat or Float Tube: Often the best approach for reaching trout, especially when shoreline fishing is slow.
• Deeper Water Near the Middle of the Lake: Productive during warmer periods when trout move into cooler water.
• West Side Boat Ramp Area: Useful for launching small boats and accessing fishing areas during lower water conditions.
• Quiet Shoreline Areas: Best during calm weather in spring and early summer when trout may feed closer to shore.

Boating at Crescent Lake

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.

Things To Do at Crescent Lake

• Fish for rainbow trout and brook trout
• Launch a small boat, kayak, canoe, or float tube
• Enjoy peaceful high-elevation scenery near Big Lake
• Watch for wildlife and birds around forest and meadow areas
• Camp nearby at Big Lake or other White Mountains campgrounds
• Explore scenic drives between Springerville, Big Lake, and Pinetop-Lakeside

Best Times to Visit Crescent Lake

• Spring: A good season for trout fishing once roads reopen and lake access improves after winter snow.
• Summer: The most reliable season for fishing, kayaking, boating, hiking, and cool high-country recreation.
• Fall: Cooler weather, fewer visitors, and changing colors make this a scenic time to fish and explore.
• Winter: Access is generally limited because roads may close due to heavy snow and ice.

Directions to Crescent Lake

Crescent Lake is located about 2 miles north of Big Lake in Arizona’s White Mountains, near the junction of Highway 261 and Highway 273, also known as Forest Road 113.

From Springerville, travel southwest toward Big Lake and follow signs toward Crescent Lake. From Pinetop-Lakeside, travel east through the White Mountains toward the Big Lake area, then continue toward Crescent Lake. Access is typically seasonal and may be restricted from winter into early spring because of snow and ice.

Crescent Lake FAQ

Where is Crescent Lake Arizona?
Crescent Lake is located near Big Lake in Arizona’s White Mountains, about 30 miles southwest of Springerville and about 41 miles east of Pinetop-Lakeside.

Is Crescent Lake good for fishing?
Yes, Crescent Lake is a good trout fishing lake with rainbow trout and brook trout. Boat anglers and float tube anglers often have better success than shoreline anglers.

Can you boat on Crescent Lake?
Yes, boating is allowed on Crescent Lake, but motors are restricted to electric motors or gas motors of 10 horsepower or less.

Can you camp at Crescent Lake?
No, camping is prohibited at Crescent Lake, but camping is available nearby at Big Lake and other White Mountains campgrounds.

Is Crescent Lake open year-round?
The lake area may be open seasonally, but access is generally limited from December to early April because nearby roads can close due to heavy snow and ice.

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

Arizona Lakes