Natural swimming hole
Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake
Lake · Connecticut
About this swimming hole
Crystal Lake is a spring-fed natural lake of about 200 acres on the Ellington-Stafford line, historically called Wabbaquasset and Square Pond. Sandy Beach, at the south end of the lake, is its only public beach and is run by the Town of Ellington. Swimming is permitted only while the waterfront is open with a lifeguard on duty.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Walk-in admission (2026 town rates): residents $10 adult / $8 child; non-residents $20 adult / $10 child; seniors $1; children under 5 free. Season parking passes are for Ellington residents only |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daily 10:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. in full season (2026: June 18-August 16), weekends only from late May to mid-June, weather and staffing permitting |
| Parking | Beach lot at the south end of Crystal Lake; season parking passes are Ellington-resident only, non-residents pay walk-in admission |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguards |
| County | Tolland County |
| Nearest town | Ellington |
| Safety notes | Swimming is allowed only when the waterfront is open and a lifeguard is on duty. The beach closes when capacity is reached — closure notices are posted by Ellington Parks & Recreation. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake?
Yes — Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in Connecticut. Heads-up: Swimming is allowed only when the waterfront is open and a lifeguard is on duty. The beach closes when capacity is reached — closure notices are posted by Ellington Parks & Recreation.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake?
Reported fee info: Walk-in admission (2026 town rates): residents $10 adult / $8 child; non-residents $20 adult / $10 child; seniors $1; children under 5 free. Season parking passes are for Ellington residents only. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake?
The best season is typically June-August.