What to do? There are many hiking trails and the oaks beg to be climbed. There is fishing in the lake. Out of the campsite there is a one-mile trail to the “lake.”
THE LAKE
The lake is a mile from the campground. You can drive there, but we chose to hike. The last leg takes you down hundreds of stairs and the lake is disappointing – more like a big pond. It is a naturally formed lake fed by snow melt and springs. It is lined with reeds but if you can get your line out past the reeds, they say there are large bass just waiting to be caught. No watercraft is allowed.
THE CRYSTAL LAKE CAFE
Meet Adam Samrah! For years he has lived in the canyon manning his cafe which is known for its breakfast burritos, banana bread and fudge brownies. In the 2002 Curve Fire which heavily damaged this area, he barely escaped with his life. Only by riding out the flames while immersed in a pond with his friend was he able to escape death. Not scared out of the area, he remains, greeting visitors and providing necessities.
WHAT ABOUT THE RECENT FIRE (which is still burning out of control)
All the way up Highway 39 we kept noticing how dry and steep the canyon appeared and voiced our concern about the fire danger. Sure enough, a few days ago, less than a week from our camping trip, we spotted smoke about 3 p.m. and drove over to Azusa by Costco to pinpoint the source. As we feared, it was in Azusa Canyon, a short ways south east of Crystal Lake. At this time the campground is closed. When it reopens after the fire is out, it will remain open until December 21. It is first come-first served – no reservations. The weekdays are peaceful but since it is so close to civilization I fear the weekends may be crowded and rowdy. You can get up to date information on their website: www.crystallake.name/index.htm.