Location: Issaquah/Sammamish
Address: 2000 N.W. Sammamish Rd., Issaquah
Acreage: 512
It doesn’t matter if you live on the Eastside or in Seattle, if you haven’t been to Lake Sammamish State Park you should schedule a trip.
This huge recreation area manages to strike a careful balance between people and nature. Ballfields and popular swimming beaches draw lots of use, but you can also find quiet and solitude on wetland trails that provide a home for many types of wildlife, especially birds.
Located on the southern shore of this long lake, the park has about a mile and a half of of waterfront to explore. Because of the interesting geography of the shoreline, Lake Sammamish State Park is made up of several bays with spots for swimming, fishing and boating. Boat rentals are available during summer months.
In the summer it’s packed here with family reunions, corporate picnics and other large gatherings at the hundreds of tables and several picnic shelters scattered throughout the park. If you do some exploring or inquiring at the ranger station you’ll also find horseshoe pits, geocaches and a junior ranger program for kids.
Speaking of kids, a fantastic playground opened in 2016 that’s worth a drive for families. Set near Sunset Beach (for views for parents and grandparents!) is a colorful play area that appeals to tots and older kids. They’ll find a large climbing structure with curving slides, two net-style climbing contraptions, a long zip line, swings and two smaller climbing playhouses perfect for younger sibling.
The beach has also been redone and is a lovely place to spend an afternoon on the sand. Even the restrooms are spruced up inside a new facility with a beautiful modern design.
Don’t leave without trying out the network of trails. Look for access at the north end of Sunset Beach and cross Issaquah Creek to wander on the dirt paths that wind through tall grass. It’s possible to connect on foot to the motorized boat launch at the far north end of the park. (The boat launch is accessible by car from E. Lake Sammamish Parkway S.E) From the boat launch you can continue for a longer walk or bike ride on the East Lake Sammamish Trail.
While there is no individual camping here, if you cross E. Lake Sammamish Parkway S.E. you’ll find a reservable group camp site than can accommodate 200 people.
Interested in the history of the park? Several native American tribes have had a presence on the shores of this lake for more than a thousand years. Later this area held family-run dairy farms. The land was purchased from the state in the 1950s to create the park.
Note: You’ll need a Discover Pass to park at Lake Sammamish State Park. Bring yours or stop at the Ranger Station to purchase a day or yearlong pass.
#472 (Visited 11/21/16)