Crescent Lake - Putnam

Putnam County, Florida

Crescent Lake is a 15,960-acre freshwater lake located in the Florida counties of Putnam and Flagler. The north end of Crescent Lake connects to St. John’s River via Dunn’s Creek.

On the western side, in Crescent City, the lake is 45 minutes away from St. Augustine and 60 minutes from Ormond and Daytona Beach. As the locals say, Crescent City is off the beaten path but "close to everything."

The Sanford International Airport is a 60-minute drive from Crescent City but an 80-minute drive from Andalusia on the eastern side.

The Putnam Community Health Center is 35 miles away from residents of Crescent Lake, and those staying in Andalusia are 19 miles away from AdventHealth Palm Coast.

Life on the Lake

Some fishing experts have called Crescent Lake the “Bass Capital of the World.” The lake’s shallow grass, shell beds, sharp drops, and ledges create ideal bass-fishing conditions. The most common species in the lake are largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, and chain pickerel.

In the summer, anglers go out in the early mornings and late evenings to avoid the heat. In the winter months, live shiners, as well as artificial baits, prove useful.

The lake has several convenient boat ramps and is perfect for motorboating, canoeing, sailing, and other fun water activities.

Dunn’s Creek State Park’s trails and beautiful scenery provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Residents in the area also enjoy hunting and four-wheeling. At Crescent Lake, there is something for the whole family to enjoy!

Nearby Attractions

There are around 1,600 residents in the historic town of Crescent City. The city fronts the lake, providing spectacular views of the sparkling water. Take a stroll down the street and gaze at the quaint houses and shops. Many of the buildings look the same as they did 100 years ago.

Sprague House, the local bed and breakfast, is a popular location in the area. It was originally built in 1892 as the home of one of the local citrus growers.

Popular restaurants in the area include 3 Bananas, which is known for their fried fish, wings, and full bar overlooking the lake, and Hallie’s Landing, which has great food, lake views, boat rentals, and a semi-submarine ride.

Presented by the Crescent City Rotary Club, the annual Catfish Festival takes place in April and lasts around two days. The festival includes live music, games for children, arts and crafts vendors, and a parade.

Residents who enjoy golfing can also visit the Oaks Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course with a great restaurant open to the public.

Visit St. Augustine

St. Augustine, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is a piece of Europe nestled into the United States. Many of the buildings used Spanish and French architectural techniques, and guests often feel as if they have left the country as they stroll through the cobblestone streets.

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. At over 315 years old, visitors can travel back in time as they walk among the coquina stone fortress walls.

Flagler College, once the Ponce De Leon Hotel, was built in an extravagant Spanish style in 1888. The location offers enriching tours of the lobby, parlor rooms, and dining hall.

Because of the city's rich history, the area contains spectacular museums. Popular spots include the Lightner Museum, the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, Potter’s Wax Museum, and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, established in 1893, is one of the state's oldest continuously running establishments. It houses over 24 species of crocodiles, along with other reptiles.

Head to the Twelve Mile Swamp Conservation Area for the perfect place to connect with nature. The 378 acres of land are designated recreation areas and are open to the public. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the 2.2 miles of trail.

Something for Everyone

Crescent Lake has something for everyone, including a plethora of outdoor activities, community events, and tourist adventures. Life on this lake might be peaceful, but it will be anything but dull!