Crescent Mills is the first community the motorist encounters when approaching Indian Valley from the Feather River Canyon. Named for the sickle-shaped flat upon which the town is located, Crescent Mills grew around a 30-stamp crushing mill which started operation here during the early 1860s.
Business establishments serving the community include a post office, gift shop, auto repair, and a tow service.
There is a 9-hole golf course and driving range south of Crescent Mills at the junction of Highway 89 and the county road to Taylorsville.