Crystal Lake
Joaquin, Texas
A History of East Texas' Favorite Swimming Place
Welcome to Crystal Lake Texas
Welcome to Crystal Lake Texas, the official memoir and community website for Joaquin, Texas' favorite summer swimming place — Crystal Lake. For over 70 years, Crystal Lake provided Joaquin residents and those in surrounding towns a safe, family-fun place to enjoy hot Texas summers. The history of Crystal Lake is rich with unique and amazing Texas Pioneers, memories and stories of those who enjoyed it over the years.
The History
From founder Abner O. Whiddon in 1913 to four generations of family stewardship — the remarkable story of how Crystal Lake came to be.
Read the History →
The Photos
70+ years of memories captured on film. Browse our collection of photos from Crystal Lake spanning the 1950s through today.
View Gallery →
Your Memories
Hundreds of families have stories from Crystal Lake. Read memories from the community and share your own — the lake lives on in our hearts.
Read Stories →“The lake holds lifelong memories for hundreds of families across East Texas, Louisiana, and beyond — a place where summer meant Crystal Lake.”
Crystal Lake, Joaquin, Texas · Est. 1913 · A Whiddon Family Legacy
Historic Setting · Modern Celebration
Get Married at Crystal Lake
Where East Texas has gathered for over 100 years, couples now gather to begin their lives together. Crystal Lake Wedding Venue brings your love story to the shores of Joaquin's most cherished landmark.