Beaches

Group Reservations

Please note: there is no minimum reservation number for residents. The reservation minimum below is for non-residents. Reservations required at least one week in advance.

MAIN BEACH 

Min guarantee: 25 people 

Max: 400 people

WEST BEACH

Min guarantee: 25 people

Max: 50 people

Please note: A valid photo ID with a Crystal Lake Park District address or current utility bill is required to receive resident rates for Crystal Lake Park District residents.

Resident Admission: $1/person. Each non-resident guest is $5 (children under 3 years and adults over 60 years are free).

Non-Resident or Corporate Group Admission: $8/person. Each resident guest is $1 (children under 3 years free). Proof of residency is required.

Reserved Picnic Tables: $10 each; random picnic tables are on a first-come, first-served basis

Area 6 Reservation: $65 includes 4 permanent picnic tables and covered area adjacent to playground

Tents: You may put up a 10 x10 or smaller pop up tent at no charge.

Please note: picnic table reservations not accepted Tuesday evenings, holidays and special events.

Beach Reservation Form

Field Trips-Weekdays at Main or West beach

Res Rate: $1 per person (minimum 12 people)

Non-Res Rate: $6 per person (minimum 12 people)

Field Trip Reservation Form

Field Trip Risk Form

Main Beach Pavilion & Band Shell

Guests may rent the Main Beach Pavilion or Band Shell for their special occasions. The pavilion features 72" round tables, white garden chairs, air temperature control, wood floors and LED light display. The band shell, nestled among the big oak shade trees on the north end of the park, provides the perfect backdrop for your event. For more information, email Antony Mores or call 815.459.0680 x 1226.

Beach Rules

1. No Swimming Without Lifeguard: Entering the water is prohibited without a lifeguard on duty. All swimmers must follow the lifeguard's instructions.
2. Stay Within Designated Areas: Swimmers must remain within the roped-off areas. Signage and buoy lines indicate water depths over 3 feet and 5 feet.
3. Floatation Device Policy:
   • Main Beach: No floats allowed beyond the 3-foot buoy line.
   • West Beach: No floats allowed beyond the 3-foot buoy line for individuals under 21. Adults aged 21 and over no floats allowed past the 5 ft line.
   • Floatation devices must be inspected to ensure they are the appropriate type and U.S. Coast Guard Certified.
4. Safety Conduct: Patrons must behave responsibly, ensuring the safety of themselves and others in and around the water.
5. No Diving: Diving is strictly prohibited.
6. Food and Drink: No food or drink is allowed in the water.
7. No Smoking or Vaping: Smoking and vaping are prohibited throughout the park and beach.
8. Children Supervision: Children under the age of 11 must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older.
9. Water Safety: The lake water is not suitable for drinking. Swimmers are encouraged to shower and towel dry after leaving the water.
10. Swimwear and Hygiene: Infants must wear rubber or plastic pants. All swimmers must wear proper swimwear—no street clothes are allowed.
11. No Entry Under the Influence: Individuals under the influence of alcohol or exhibiting erratic behavior are not permitted in the park.
12. Health Precautions: Admission may be denied to anyone suspected of having contagious diseases or infectious conditions.
13. Staff Authority: Staff have the authority to enforce additional or stricter rules as needed.
14. No Pets: Pets are not allowed. Licensed service animals are exempt.
15. Do Not Feed Wildlife: Feeding geese or other wildlife is prohibited.
16. Lightning Detection System: Follow all rules related to the lightning detection system and seek shelter when required.
17. Grilling: Grill equipment and supplies must be brought in through the front gate only. Only charcoal grills with lids are allowed in the grass areas of Main Beach and West Beach. Charcoal receptacles are available for disposal throughout the park. Propane tanks are prohibited.
18. Catering Supplies: Drop-off catering supplies must be brought in through the front gate only.
19. Tent Size: Tents must not exceed 10ft x 10ft (EZ-Up size). Tents are not allowed on the sand within the roped swim area. Tents are to be secured by weights, such as sandbags. The use of stakes is not allowed.
20. Alcohol Policy: Beer and wine are permitted in picnic areas only.
21. No Glass Containers: Glass containers are not allowed on the beach or playground.
22. Trash and Recycling: Use the provided receptacles for trash, charcoal, and recycling.
23. Special Event Restrictions: Crystal Lake Park District events may restrict coolers and alcohol in the park. The boat launch, park and playground area may be closed during special events.
24. No Wheels: Bikes, skateboards, scooters, and roller skates are not allowed in the park from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
25. Swim Breaks: Swim break rest periods are scheduled twice daily for safety. Additional rest breaks may be implemented hourly based on attendance and temperature.
26. Watercraft Access: All watercraft (motorized and non-motorized) must enter through the boat launch area with a purchased boat gate access key fob.
27. Weather Flag System: Flagpoles at Main and West Beaches display color-coded weather flags. For safety, familiarize yourself with the following flag colors:
    • RED: Beach Closed. KEEP OFF THE LAKE
    • GREEN: Fair weather, light air, and wind 1-10 mph
28. Emergency Contact: In case of emergency, call 9-1-1.