Crowley Lake
Mammoth Lakes, California
| Address: | Lake Crowley, California, USA |
| GPS: |
37°37'1.0"N 118°44'15.7"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | California |
Hike and Swim
Nestled in the picturesque landscape near Benton, California, Crowley Lake stands as a hidden gem, known not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for the intriguing geological formations that captivate visitors. This reservoir, created by the Long Valley Dam, offers a unique experience with its ancient columns rising from the lakebed, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Mystical Columns:
One of the most distinctive features of Crowley Lake is the presence of ancient columns, remnants of volcanic activity that occurred over 700,000 years ago. The columns, formed by the cooling and contracting of volcanic ash, create a surreal and mystical atmosphere. The most famous spot to witness these fascinating formations is the "Columns," an area accessible via the Crowley Lake Scenic Overlook. As you explore the site, take in the towering pillars that seem to reach towards the sky, creating a landscape reminiscent of an ancient and otherworldly realm.
Outdoor Activities:
Crowley Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Fishing enthusiasts will find the lake well-stocked with trout, making it a popular destination for both novice and experienced anglers. The lake is regularly stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, ensuring a diverse and abundant fish population. Fishing from the shore or on a boat are both popular options, providing opportunities for a relaxing day on the water.
Camping is another highlight of the area, with several campgrounds around the lake offering a chance to immerse oneself in the serene surroundings. Crowley Lake Campground is a popular choice, providing facilities for both RV and tent camping. The campgrounds offer stunning views of the lake and easy access to outdoor activities, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Swimming is permitted in Crowley Lake, offering a refreshing way to cool off during the warmer months. However, it's important to note that the lake's elevation can lead to cooler water temperatures, so be prepared for a brisk swim.
Crowley Lake, with its mystical columns and diverse outdoor activities, beckons adventurers seeking a unique and enriching experience. Whether you're drawn to the ancient geological wonders or eager to cast a line into the crystal-clear waters, this destination in Benton, California, promises a memorable journey surrounded by nature's wonders. As you plan your visit, remember to adhere to regulations and guidelines to ensure the preservation of this natural marvel for future generations.
More Information
Crowley Lake Fish Camp
We will re-open on April 23rd to prepare for Eastern Sierra Trout Season that begins Saturday, April 25th.This years opening weekend is going to be an epic one!! We are enjoying an early spring which means warmer water temps and hungry fish. The water levels are higher than normal but we are still expecting to open for first come, first served camping at the South Landing, as well as storage starting on 4/23. Due to the water levels, we will not be opening the North Arm for any vehicle access until the levels drop back down to normal.
https://www.crowleylakefishcamp.com/Crowley Lake | Fishing, Hiking and Camping | Visit Mono County
Crowley Lake, California is a quaint fishing village with a vast trout fishing lake approximately 12 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, Ca.
https://www.monocounty.org/places-to-go/lakes-rivers-creeks/crowley-lake/Crowley Lake | Mono County California
The community of Crowley Lake is just 12 miles south of Mammoth Lakes along US Hwy 395 and overlooks a vast trout fishing lake by the same name. Crowley Lake is one of the few locations in the Eastern Sierra where visitors can drive up to the water’s edge where there is a full-service marina, campground and tackle shop. With a shoreline that adds up to 45 miles, fishing, boat rentals, and seasonal water sports including waterskiing and wakeboarding are popular with anglers and sightseers. The area nearby also provides many breathtaking opportunities for hikers at McGee Creek and Rock Creek Canyon area. The Crowley Lake General Store & Café has a Shell fueling station, groceries, baked goods, meals, and a delightful wine selection. There is a library, baseball diamond, and playground. July 4th fireworks light up the skies over the lake every year.
https://monocounty.ca.gov/economic/page/crowley-lakeBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Mammoth Lakes, California
- Head west (276 ft)
- Turn left toward CA-203 E/
Main St (240 ft) - Turn left onto CA-203 E/
Main St Continue to follow CA-203 E(3.1 mi) - Turn right to merge onto US-395 S toward Bishop (5.4 mi)
- Turn left onto Benton Crossing Rd (0.4 mi)
- Continue onto Minnow Creek (0.1 mi)
- Continue onto Benton Crossing Rd (0.6 mi)
- Turn right onto N Landing Rd (0.7 mi)
- Slight right (2.7 mi)
- Turn leftDestination will be on the right(1.2 mi)
Other Swimming Holes and Hiking Trails Nearby
Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Mammoth Lakes, California
1.2 miles SEOtherworldly 20-foot tufa columns rising from the Eastern Sierra lakebed at Crowley Lake — a geological wonder formed over 600,000 years of calcium carbonate buildup.
Hike
Hot Creek
Mammoth Lakes, California
7.6 miles NWCLOSED. Entering the water is now prohibited at this location. A striking hot-spring creek where cold water meets hydrothermal vents — a geological spectacle worth photographing from shore, but fenced off for swimming due to dangerous temperature swings and past fatalities.
Swim
Crystal Lake
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Smith River Area
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Standish Hickey Area
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Mono Pass
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Lyell Canyon
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Hike 1.8 mi
Gaylor Lakes
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35.4 miles NWA 2-mile Yosemite hike with views the entire way — Dana Meadows, mountain peaks, and a high valley holding five separate lakes, with a mostly flat valley to wander once you top the pass.
Hike, Swim
Tuolumne Meadows
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37.7 miles NWA stunning alpine meadow in the high Sierra with granite domes and mountain views, the meandering Tuolumne River, and access to Yosemite backcountry — open summer only when the park road is clear.
Camp, Hike 4.0 mi
Saddlebag Lake
Lee Vining, California
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Camp, Canoe, Hike 0.8-4.1 mi
Dog Lake and Lembert Dome
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37.9 miles NWA 4-mile round-trip hike through Tuolumne Meadows wildflowers to a serene evergreen lake and a granite dome with sweeping views — doable in 1.5 to 3 hours.
Hike, Swim
Elizabeth Lake
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Hike, Swim 1.1 mi
Lundy Canyon
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Hike 0.9-3.2 mi
Cathedral Lakes
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Glen Aulin
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Backpack, Camp, Hike, Swim 6.1 mi
Glen Aulin
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Wild Willy's Hot Spring
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Crowley Lake Campground
Crowley Lake, California
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Crystal Lake
Mammoth Lakes, California
15.0 miles WA 3.2-mile roundtrip Sierra day hike past Lake George, Lake Marie, and Lake Mamie, ending at Crystal Lake beneath the monolith Crystal Crag — shaded trail with room to swim, fish, or picnic lakeside.
Camp, Hike
Standish Hickey Area
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25.3 miles SWA two-mile stretch of the south fork of the Eel River inside a redwood canyon 180 miles from San Francisco — swim, kayak, fish, or hike, then camp near the 1,200-year-old Captain Miles Standish Tree.
Backpack, Camp, Hike, Kayak, Swim
Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne County, California
37.7 miles NWA stunning alpine meadow in the high Sierra with granite domes and mountain views, the meandering Tuolumne River, and access to Yosemite backcountry — open summer only when the park road is clear.
Camp, Hike 4.0 mi
Saddlebag Lake
Lee Vining, California
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Camp, Canoe, Hike
Glen Aulin
Glen Aulin, California
42.3 miles NWA popular introductory Yosemite High Country backcountry hike following the Tuolumne River to a High Sierra Camp beside the White Cascade waterfall, with further options to Waterwheel Falls.
Backpack, Camp, Hike, Swim 6.1 mi
Glen Aulin
Wawona, California
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Merced River
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Ten Lakes
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47.0 miles NWA 6.4-mile hike from Yosemite Creek to three of the Ten Lakes Basin's seven lakes, through wildflower meadows, forests, and past the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, gaining 2,200 feet.
Backpack, Camp, Hike
