Crescent Creek originates at Crescent Lake in the Deschutes National Forest on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range, flowing approximately 33 miles downstream to its confluence with the Little Deschutes River. A 10-mile segment of the creek, beginning at the outlet of Crescent Lake and ending at Crescent Cut-off Road (County Road 61), was designated as a Wild and Scenic River in 1988 under the Recreational classification.

The creek flows through a dramatic landscape shaped by ancient glacial and volcanic forces. In its upper reaches, Crescent Creek carves through a steep, narrow canyon flanked by Royce Mountain to the north and Odell Butte to the south, where high slope angles and exposed rock outcrops create striking geological features. The canyon section features large rock formations and boulders that add visual complexity to the waterway. As the creek exits the canyon, the valley floor widens considerably, and the character of the riparian zone transforms.

Flow patterns on Crescent Creek are heavily influenced by the Crescent Lake dam, completed in 1956 and operated by Tumalo Irrigation District. This regulation has reversed the natural hydrograph, with peak flows occurring during summer irrigation season (June through September, averaging 146 CFS and sometimes exceeding 230 CFS) and very low base flows during fall through spring storage periods. Water temperatures average 42 degrees Fahrenheit during summer months. The creek maintains a generally slow-moving character with an average gradient drop of less than 45 feet per mile.

The riparian corridor supports diverse vegetation including Engelmann spruce, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, and true firs. Large old-growth ponderosa pines exceeding 24 inches in diameter with characteristic yellow-bellied bark are scattered throughout the corridor. In the wider valley sections, willows and rose species have grown to substantial sizes. The area provides habitat for redband trout, Oregon spotted frog, northern spotted owl, and numerous other wildlife species.

Crescent Creek Campground, located within the designated corridor, serves as the primary developed access point. The campground operates from late May through September and offers basic amenities. Three dispersed camping areas exist west of the campground. The creek's abundant woody debris and flow regulation make it unsuitable for whitewater rafting or kayaking, and water-based recreation remains minimal.

The designated Wild and Scenic River corridor encompasses approximately 3,160 acres, with six of the ten miles managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the remainder in private ownership. Management emphasizes protecting the creek's outstandingly remarkable values: geology, scenic vegetation, and fisheries. The area sees relatively light recreational use, with primary activities including camping, fishing, hunting, and hiking during appropriate seasons.