Lacamas Lake
Getting There: Map and Directions (Heritage Park put-in)
Food / Supplies / SUP rentals: Vancouver, Camas, Washougal / Sweetwater SUP Rentals at Heritage Park
Crowds: As with most nearby lakes, weekends are packed in the Summer. Lots of paddlers in the no-wake zone at the south end of the lake, few and far between at the north end. Be prepared for plenty of boat traffic, hug the shore if you are paddling the main lake.
Lacamas Lake is nestled in the woods and semi-residential area north of Camas, the southern end of the lake anchored by Lacamas Park and it’s many trails. Exploring the park can be an adventure in itself, as it is a sort of “mini-gorge” with meandering trails and even a handful of waterfalls.
The lake offers a wonderful paddling experience for all skill levels. While there are plenty of suitable launch sites surrounding the lake, I’ve found that Heritage Park on the southwest side is the most convenient, with ample parking, bathrooms, and even a SUP modified launching dock, complete with a handy bar to stabilize yourself as you step onto your board! There is also a boat ramp next to the dock that works just as well.
My favorite paddle on Lacamas Lake is fairly straightforward: I like to glide around a bit in the no-wake zone by the launch, and then head north, up to the main body of the lake, either to the left or right of the small island. A note: If you paddle through the left channel by the island, be aware that it gets a bit shallow right before you enter the main lake, be sure to check the depth so as not to catch your fin. The lake water levels will fluctuate, and it is not always possible to take this route!
Once on the main lake, I like to hug the left bank, as there are usually plenty of boats and their subsequent wake to contend with. Sticking close to the shore helps to minimize the wake battle and keeps you out of the way of boat traffic.
Paddling the length of the lake takes about forty-five minutes one way, and at the north end you will enter another no-wake zone where you can relax and find some smooth water. Continuing north, the lake narrows and gets shallow as you enter the mouth of Lacamas Creek, which connects to both ends of the lake. Here you will find the real magic of this body of water, as the woods close in around you and you float past lovely beds of lily pads and their pink flowers.
Continuing up the creek, keep an eye out for cranes and other wildlife. It is possible to venture quite a ways upstream before the creek gets too shallow and rocky, with small riffles beginning to form.
Heading back, I almost always reward myself with a refreshing swim, the water is a perfect temperature. Do be aware that there are sometimes blooms of toxic blue algae, be sure to check online for the latest updates. Most of the Summer this isn’t a problem, but it is important to keep yourself informed before taking the plunge!
Another option for a short paddle is to go under the bridge (NE Everett St.) at the south end of the lake where it connects to Round Lake, water levels permitting.
