The state with the most rainfall, Washington is home to numerous perennial lakes, rivers and waterfalls. This dramatic state is draped over with more than 8,000 gorgeous lakes. In addition, the majestic mountains, beautiful coasts and many other natural and alluring landscapes, make Washington state a great tourist destination. The year-round comfortable weather offers the visitors extra energy while navigating this Pacific Northwest state.
During summer months, this popular family-friendly getaway destination becomes more imposing as visitors get multiple possibilities within the state to cool off themselves. All these natural pools additionally offer stunning recreational facilities.
Here are some of the best swimming lakes in Washington that are perfect for escaping the scorching heat of summer. All these lakes are family-friendly, also, there are several family-friendly activities visitors enjoy keenly in these beautiful lakes in Washington.
1. Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan must be placed on the top position when we talk about the best swimming lakes in Washington. It’s the highlight of the state. The 50.5-mile glacier fed lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush vegetation and small-town charm. Must visit this one of the prettiest lakes for experiencing breathtaking scenery, amazing sunbath and great fishing opportunities, as well.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear water and feel the afresh soul! Fishing is a fun activity in this freshwater lake. Common fish species like rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, lake trout and some other fish species make this blue water lake a popular fishing destination for active anglers. So, it’s needless to say, Lake Chelan is some of the best fishing lakes in Washington, too!
Other engaging activities are waterskiing and wakeboarding. Boating tours are available. For experiencing the spectacular surrounding scenery, must take a boat tour. You may also attend several events those are held throughout the year and are enjoyable for all age groups.
2. Lake Washington
Lake Washington, another some of the best lakes in Washington for swimming, is located adjacent to Seattle and is best known for its huge water quantity. The lake has been named after Mr. George Washington. The beautiful Lake Washington is fed by two rivers- Sammamish River and Cedar River from north and south ends, respectively.
Moreover, Lake Washington is the largest lake in King County, and the second largest natural lake in Washington. Fishing and swimming opportunities are great in this lake. Several fishing piers are also available here. All-together, visiting this lake is well-worth the effort!
So, get ready to explore one of the best lakes in Washington. Just rent a boat and explore the entire scenic area. You will get a picturesque view of the lake that’s perfect for clicking lots of photos. Visitors get extreme fun while attending the 2-hour long lunch cruise tour in this large natural lake.
Seaward Park is very close to Lake Washington. You can experience a nice bicycling and pedestrian path in this park. Several swimming spots and kayak launches are also available for the visitors. So, going to this park is another great option for a day trip.
3. Cranberry Lake
Inside Deception Pass State Park, one of the most popular state parks in Washington, in Island County, visitors get another one of the best and beautiful lakes in Washington. For fish lovers, Cranberry Lake is a dream destination. You will encounter a fishing pier on the east shore. Stocked fish species include yellow perch, rainbow trout and brown trout.
Two-pole-fishing is allowed here. Any internal combustion motors are strictly prohibited on the lake, except human-powered or electric motor boats are allowed. Swimming in the warm water is very refreshing. The western shore is specially designated for swimming areas and restrooms.
For having a nice picnic experience with your family, head to the eastern shore, you’ll encounter a great picnic area along with a dock. There is a popular 3.4km out-and-back trail. It takes nearly 40 minutes to complete and it’s been rated as an easy trail. Willing visitors need to carry hiking boots or sturdy sneakers if they want to cover the trail.
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4. Bear Lake
How can we forget the stunning Bear Lake when talking about the best swimming lakes in Washington? Bear Lake, a part of the Bear Lake Regional Park in Spokane County, is considered one of the best lakes in Washington. The best part is, the Bear Lake Regional Park charges no entry fee or parking pass to its visitors.
Among nature explorers, Bear Lake is a great option for the day trip. This family-friendly lake offers amazing picnic areas, great swimming possibilities and scenic walking trails around the lake. The lake is also a great place to bring your dogs.
Amazing lake amenities are a large parking area, nice picnic tables, volleyball courts, hiking trails, clean restrooms and public toilets. This lake is also one of the best fishing destinations in the state, but visitors need to follow some fishing regulations. Also, there are several short hiking trails, perfect for families with younger kids.
Moreover, Bear Lake is located close to another beautiful lake Deer Lake. Visitors need to hike 0.7 miles to visualize this beautiful lake. You’ll also encounter a nice and small waterfall in this hike.
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5. Lake Sammamish
This nice freshwater lake, Lake Sammamish, is located in King County, Washington. Lake Sammamish is 7 miles long with a maximum depth of 105 feet. Among Seattle residents, it’s one of the best swimming lakes in Washington. Located inside the Lake Sammamish State Park, this pretty Washington lake holds cultural significance for being the gathering place of four native American tribes.
Wildlife viewing opportunity is huge here. Several migratory birds make this lake their short-staying home. Carry your camera and snap lots of photos of both wildlife and scenic beauty. Several recreational facilities make this spot a great getaway destination among both locals and visitors.
Lake Sammamish is also one of the best lakes for offering countless amenities. ADA playground, ADA restrooms, boardwalk, camping area, picnic areas, picnic shelters, playgrounds, volleyball courts, hiking and biking trails, all you can explore within the park area.
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6. Baker Lake
Baker Lake is fed by the Baker River and it’s located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Must visit the national forest and off course the lake for having a great swimming experience along with multiple exciting recreational opportunities. This lake also offers one of the most amazing views of the entire terrain.
For spending a relaxed afternoon with your near ones, Baker Lake matches all the options. Carry your food and have a nice picnic on the picnic tables. For visitors’ comfortability, there are many new restrooms that are recently added in the area.
Moreover, there are plenty of areas for camping, swimming and sightseeing. It’s truly a beautiful place to behold! Must plan a day trip to this majestic lake to enjoy all the beautiful beaches and lakeside trails. There are three campgrounds in the area. Swimming and picnicking at Horseshoe Cove will give you a breathtaking experience.
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7. Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is located inside Olympic National Park in Clallam County. Visitors need to carry passes to enter the park. The pristine water of this deep lake is an ideal destination for all ages to take a refreshing dip. While visiting this celestial lake, you’ll find yourself totally baffled with the natural beauty. Visitors can also participate in different types of fun activities after reaching this place.
Also, the warm blue water is not only perfect for taking the refreshing dip, but fishing and experiencing incredible boat tour are other fun activities in Lake Crescent. The lush Olympic Mountains itself is alluring and offers several hikes. Two most popular trails are Barnes Creek Trail and Spruce Road Trail. If you want to explore all the existing natural wonders within the park, take the guided tour.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, dining and camping are other fun-filled activities. Rental options are available. On the west end of the lake, you will encounter 87 campsites. For night stay, book any of those. You will be good to know that these campsites are wheelchair accessible, also.
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8. Bumping Lake
Bumping Lake is best known for offering the state’s some of the nicest campgrounds. Visitors who are eager for experiencing a great camping in their next getaway vacation, Bumping Lake is a perfect option for them. Also, this crystal-clear lake is one of the best swimming lakes in Washington. You’ll see many of families, couples and other groups are visiting this year-round fantastic destination.
Bumping Lake is fed by Bumping River and is located in Yakima County, Washington. Locals name this lake as lake Plehnam. Camping at the National Forest Campground is a great option. This spot is very scenic, clean and quiet. Night staying is this ground is one of the best decisions.
As the land gets oversubscribed with multiple groups for the year-round, pre-campsite booking is strongly recommended. For individual camping, this is also an ideal spot.
While talking about the lake, there are numerous water activities along with swimming, fishing, and skiing that are keenly enjoyed by all age groups. Must visit the lake and experience the surprizing landscapes and stunning recreational activities with your kids and other family members.
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9. Lake Cushman
Want to explore a great fishing and wildlife watching spot? Pop into the Olympic National Forest. Here you’ll get the stunning Lake Cushman. This reservoir is located in Mason County, and is considered one of the best lakes in Washington state.
This small and excellent lake is just off of the North Fork Skokomish River. Interestingly, the lake falls into a semi-private land. The entire area is a picturesque setting. Swimming, kayaking, cliff jumping are the most popular activities. And several other amazing facilities, make this lake a great year-round destination.
Boat rentals are available at the park. The area offers access to multiple hiking trails. Big Creek Campground Trail, Big Creek Upper Loop, Copper Creek Trail are popular among the visitors. Fishing opportunity is huge. The lake offers year-round open season fishing and is stocked with several fish species. So, don’t miss the chance to fish in one of the best fishing lakes in Washington. If kids are with you, they’re going to love this fun game.
The only disadvantage is, the parking is very limited here. So, try to reach early. Still, if you can’t catch a parking space, head to another area of the national forest. And public lands are always an open option.
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10. Enchantment Lakes
The Enchantments is the region within Washington’s Cascade Mountain Range. The spot is only 15 miles from the town of Leavenworth. Being a part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness region, the Enchantment lakes are one of the most spectacular lakes to visit in the state of Washington.
In the region, you’ll get over 700 lakes and ponds which are great swimming spots, too. These are also the best rock-climbing sites in the western United States. In the Alpine Zone, visitors encounter lots of Alpine flowers such as dryas octopetala, phacelia sericea and many other anonymous colorful wildflowers.
The most popular lakes include Snow Lake, Colchuck Lake, Eightmile Lake, and Nada Lake. There are several passes and creeks those are great for hiking. Colchuck Lake hike is a popular one and visitors can easily access this hike as a day trip from the theme town of Leavenworth. While covering the hike, you’ll observe the surrounding views of the area are just spectacular!
Colchuck Lake is the highlight of this region. Try to reach to the trailhead early as the parking is limited. As you get closer to the lake, you’ll feel the pathway is being steeper. But the surrounding picturesque setting is fantastic and breathtaking!
The entire area is beautiful and peaceful. For wildlife lovers, the spot is a unique place. Numerous animals like white-tailed ptarmigan, pikes and hoary marmots make the Alpine Zone their permanent residence.
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11. Lake Serene
Lake Serene is another Alpine Lake located in Snohomish County, Washington. If you are an experienced hiker, must cover Lake Serene hike. For its crystal-clear water quality and gorgeous color, this lake is another one of the most popular swimming lakes in Washington. The water is cold as it comes from the glaciers. Carry extra clothes if you are planning to swim.
Lake Serene sits at an elevation of 2,000-feet and the highest point is 2,521-feet. To cover the hike, visitors need to have Northwest Forest Passes. Visitors need to hike the 7-mile roundtrip to reach to the celestial Lake Serene. It’s a strenuous hike and requires the entire day. But no worries! If you have good navigation skill, only then go for this hike. Just follow the marks that are mentioned, and get closer to the lake. Along the journey, there are several berry bushes you’ll discover.
While covering the trail that run through a dense forest, you’ll discover the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls after covering almost 1.7-mile hike. The falls hike is actually a side trail. You can also get amazing views form here. The hike takes almost 4.5 hours to complete including the Bridal Veil Falls Trail.
12. Mowich Lake
Located inside Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, Mowich Lake sits at an elevation of 4,929 feet and is set in a glacier basin. The pristine Mowich lake is the deepest and largest lake in this national park. The lake is reached via State Route 165. The road is unpaved and little rough.
It is located on the northwest corner of the Mount Rainier National Park. The best time to visit this natural wonder is during summer, typically from July to October. The lake is great for swimming, and boating. Non-motorized boating is allowed on the lake. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also enjoyed by many visitors.
There are several campgrounds located nearby the parking area. For wildlife watching, it is a great spot. You may encounter cascade frogs and birds. Must cover the most popular Tolmie Peak Trail which is around 6.5 miles roundtrip. The journey starts from the north side of Mowich Lake.
If you want to explore the more spectacular views of the entire terrain, cover the 6-mile roundtrip Spray Park Trail. The hike will give you the alluring views of the gorgeous Spray Falls. Moreover, there are multiple creeks, cliffs and wildflowers spreading all around the terrain. Fishing is this lake is generally poor.
13. Kachess Lake
Kachess Lake is one of the most popular year-round lake destinations. In different seasons, visitors can enjoy its unique charm. Hike to the lake is very short. This lake is also one of the best lakes in Washington to swim.
Located in Kittitas County at an elevation of 2258 feet, Kachess Lake is boasting a shallow pool along the beach that is ideal for swimming. The best and unique things you can enjoy in the area include a beautiful camping spot in summer and a fun snowshoeing spot in the winter. The campsite is huge and clean. Must do a pre-reservation if you are willing for camping.
To anglers, Kachess Lake offers great spot to fish as the reservoir is stocked with bull trout, rainbow trout, burbot and many other fish species. Though the lake is closed for fishing bull trout. If any bull trout is hooked through your angle, make them free.
14. Lake Whatcom
Lake Whatcom is significantly important as it is the source of drinking water for more than 85,000 residents. The lake is located in Whatcom County, Washington. You’ll encounter a large natural park on the eastern side of Lake Whatcom.
This spot is one of the most family-friendly places to visit in the state of Washington. Kids love to experience the easy and nice hikes along with spending fun-time on the beaches through swimming and sunbathing.
Families love to spend some relaxed and leisure time by strolling or walking through the lush vegetation. There are several waterfalls, hills and scenic beauty you can enjoy while visiting this lake. The lake is also very popular for offering nice hiking and biking trails. Hertz Trail is an easy as well as a popular hike that run along the shore of the lake.
The hike offers amazing views of Lookout Mountain. Plus, there are many gorgeous beaches and coves in nearby area visitors enjoy drastically. There are also other trails, you can experience if you are not satisfied yet.
15. Lake Wenatchee
Lake Wenatchee is another glacier-fed lake and is located in the Wenatchee National Forest in Washington. Must visit Lake Wenatchee as it’s an iconic spot. In the area, visitors find out numerous fun-packed activities, and from horse riding to mountain climbing, all stunning activities are present here. The lake is a great spot for teaching your kids to swim in the shallow water.
Year-round camping is available at the lakeside area. Numerous guided tours are also available. You may also explore the miles long biking trail. You just need to bring your bike & get ready to explore this super exciting trail.
Furthermore, Lake Wenatchee offers the opportunity of trying new things to its visitors. If you visit the spot in winter, you’ll experience a breathtaking scenery! In winter the lake is transformed into a snow park with a unique charm.
The snowfall, gentle hills, nearby Nason Ridge and Chiwawa Sno-Parks will give you the feel like you have landed into a fairy-tale land, just like FROZEN!
FAQs
1. What is the cleanest lake in Washington?
The top three cleanest lakes in Washington include Lake Chelan, located north-central to northwestern part of Washington; Summit Lake, in Thurston County and Bumping Lake, situated within Wenatchee National Forest. There are still 4-5 lakes in Washington which are known as one of the cleanest lakes in the state.
2. Can you go swimming in Washington lakes?
There are some nice lakes in Washington those are perfect to cool down yourself during summer months, also, there are swimmable beaches spreading across the state. Every year, visitors from different parts of the country come to enjoy great swimming in these beautiful Washington lakes.
3. Are there any warm lakes in Washington?
Lake Nahwatzel is one of the warmest lakes, located in western Washington. The lake has the surface area of 269 acres with the depth of 25 feet. The presence of hot springs, make Lake Nahwatzel one of the most enjoyable lakes in the state.
4. Why are Washington lakes so blue?
Most of the Washington lakes are in bright blue or brown color. The reason is, these are glacier-fed lakes and holds higher suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity due to inflow of glacial flour.
5. Is Lake Washington saltwater or freshwater?
Lake Washington is a natural and fresh water lake, located close to the city of Seattle in Washington, United States. Also, Lake Washington is the largest lake in King County and the second largest lake in the state of Washington. The water quality of Lake Washington is truly magnificent!
6. Can you swim in Blue Lake Washington?
Yes, swimming is very popular in Blue Lake Washington. Other popular recreation and fun opportunities in Blue Lake include kayaking and remote paddling. The reservoir is some of the best lake destinations among all age groups in the state. You must go there to enjoy serenity and beauty of nature with your close ones.
7. Is it okay to swim in Lake Washington?
Lake Washington is a natural fresh water lake and it offers safe swimming opportunities to the visitors. The presence of bacteria is generally very low in the water, and the water quality is good enough for you and your crew to enjoy exhilarated swimming in Lake Washington. Another one of the most popular and safe swimming lake in Washington state include Lake Sammamish.
