Lacamas Lake

Lacamas Lake in Camas, Washington offers families a perfect blend of water fun and easy outdoor exploration. With a designated swimming beach for splashing, boat rentals for on-water adventures, and gentle lakeside trails that even little legs can manage, it's an ideal spot for introducing kids to Pacific Northwest nature without the intensity of a challenging hike.

• ✓Sandy swimming beach with designated swim area perfect for young children
• ✓Kayak and paddleboard rentals for family water adventures
• ✓Easy, scenic walking trails around the lake suitable for strollers
• ✓Shaded picnic areas with tables and grills for family cookouts
• ✓Abundant wildlife spotting opportunities including ducks, herons, and turtles

1. 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag a picnic table near the beach,they fill up quickly by late morning
2. 2.Bring water shoes as the lake bottom can be rocky in places, making it more comfortable for kids to wade and play
3. 3.Pack bug spray during spring and early summer when mosquitoes are most active near the water
4. 4.The Round Lake Trail loop is stroller-friendly and offers gorgeous viewpoints,perfect for families with young children
5. 5.Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the quieter coves where kids love spotting turtles sunbathing on logs

Visit on weekday mornings during summer (June-August) for the warmest swimming weather with fewer crowds. Early fall (September) also offers beautiful scenery with comfortable temperatures and a much quieter experience, though the water is cooler.

Parking is free but fills quickly on sunny weekends. Restroom facilities are available seasonally. There are no food concessions, so pack your own snacks and lunch for picnicking.

Swimming is best June through September when water temperatures are warmest. Boat rentals typically operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers along the trails, while fall showcases stunning foliage. Winter visits are quieter and great for bird watching, though swimming isn't recommended.

Head to downtown Camas (5 minutes away) for family-friendly options like Birch Street Uptown for wood-fired pizzas kids love, or Feast 316 which offers a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu with plenty of kid favorites.