Lake with glowing sunset

Crystal Lake Vacation Rentals

Crystal Lake

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Crystal Lake
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Why Rent On Crystal Lake

Situated on the border of Ellington and Stafford, Crystal Lake is a 187-acre spring-fed lake prized for its clear water and community charm. With a mix of seasonal cottages and year-round homes along the shore, it’s a family-friendly destination for swimming, fishing, and boating. The Sandy Beach area offers lifeguarded swimming, a playground, and picnic spots, making it popular with locals in summer months. Anglers target trout, bass, and pickerel. A long-standing tradition of community events, including fireworks and regattas, gives Crystal Lake its warm, nostalgic appeal—an ideal slice of small-town lake life in Connecticut.

Best time to go
Visit Crystal Lake in early fall, when the foliage paints the landscape in fiery hues. Bright September days invite serene kayaking and idyllic fishing, while the autumn breeze whispers tranquility. Embrace this enchanting escape before winter’s hush.
Water Quality
Crystal Lake in Connecticut boasts water that is crystal-clear, offering a pristine and transparent appearance. The lake's water color is often described as aquamarine, reflecting its clean and inviting nature.
Surface area (mi)
0.5
Max depth (ft)
49.21
Elevation (ft)
636.48

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Crystal Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Crystal Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are specific rules for swimming in Crystal Lake. Swimmers must follow lifeguard instructions and stay within the roped-off area. No swimming is allowed without a lifeguard present, and diving, food, and drinks in the water are prohibited.

  • Crystal Lake is a popular destination because of its diverse activities and attractions. It offers places like Three Oaks Recreation Area for water activities, North Wall Rock Climbing for adventure, and the Raue Center for the Arts for cultural events. These venues cater to various interests, making it appealing to a wide range of visitors.

  • The daily creel limit for bass in Crystal Lake, Connecticut, is 1 bass with a minimum length of 16 inches. This regulation applies from September 1 to August 31 of the following year. Bass Management lakes like Crystal Lake have specific regulations that differ from general lake and pond rules.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Crystal Lake. The Swim Beach in Crystal Lake, Illinois, is open to the public with free admission for residents and a fee for non-residents. It operates from May 24 to July 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

  • Towns near Crystal Lake in Connecticut include Ellington, Stafford, Tolland, Coventry, and Vernon. Crystal Lake is located in Tolland County, with these towns being part of the same or adjacent areas. Nearby cities also include Somers and Storrs.