Crystal Lake Reservoir is a 136-acre body of water located within Curt Gowdy State Park, approximately 28 miles west of Cheyenne along Happy Jack Road. Created in 1922 as a water source for Cheyenne, the reservoir sits at 6,969 feet elevation and features calm waters ideal for paddling, with jet skis prohibited on the lake.

The reservoir is particularly well-suited for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with multiple shoreline access points. Boating facilities are present on the lake. Two campgrounds - Twin Lakes Creek and Monte Cristo - are situated along the western shoreline, providing overnight accommodations for paddlers interested in multiple-day experiences.

The lake is fed by Middle Crow Creek, flowing in from nearby Granite Springs Reservoir. Wildlife viewing opportunities include various fish species, with Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout being prominent. The surrounding park landscape offers opportunities for stargazing on clear nights from the shoreline.

The reservoir is part of a three-lake system within Curt Gowdy State Park, which manages over 400 acres of water. Paddlers should note that while Crystal Reservoir allows various types of boats, it maintains a quieter atmosphere compared to other nearby waters due to its jet ski restriction.

The park is open year-round, with conditions varying by season. As the reservoir serves as both a recreational resource and an active municipal water supply for Cheyenne, paddlers should be mindful of water quality protection measures.