Is Lacamas Lake Open For Kayaking (Find Out Before You Go)

As the weather gets warmer, people start to think about getting out on the water in their kayaks. But is it safe? Is Lacamas Lake open for kayaking?

I’m seasoned in the field of outdoor recreation, and I’ve got relevant experience with this topic. I’ll provide a full picture of the situation so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to take your kayak out on Lacamas Lake.

Read through this blog post for all the information you need to know about kayaking on Lacamas Lake.

Key Takeaways

  • A well-liked location for kayaking, fishing, and swimming is Lacamas Lake in Clark County, Washington.
  • The lake is open year-round for activities, but the best time to go kayaking is from April to September.
  • Kayaks and other items can be rented from a number of businesses for use on the lake.
  • Lacamas Lake is a beautiful spot for a day trip or a longer camping trip and offers something for everyone.
  • Before getting out on the water, be sure to check the weather, as the wind on Lacamas Lake can pick up suddenly.
Is Lacamas Lake Open For Kayaking
Is Lacamas Lake Open For Kayaking

Here’s The Answer To Is Lacamas Lake Open For Kayaking

Yes, Lacamas Lake is open for kayaking. The lake is a beautiful spot for picnicking and offers great views of Mt. Hood.

The Lacamas heritage trail goes around the lake and is a great place to take a walk or go for a run. Mid-May is the best time to visit Vancouver, as the weather is perfect for kayaking and hiking.

The lake is home to perch, Columbia river bass, bluegill, and Washougal. There are also many birds that can be seen flying around the lake. The best time to go kayaking is in the morning or evening when the water is calm.

I have been kayaking at Lacamas Lake many times, and it is one of my favorite places to paddle. I love exploring the coves and islands in the middle of the lake. The views of Mt. Hood are amazing from out on the water.

Lacamas Lake is a great choice if you’re seeking a serene area to go paddling.

Lacamas Lake Is Open To The Public For Recreation

Lacamas Lake Is Open To The Public For Recreation
Lacamas Lake Is Open To The Public For Recreation

Lacamas Lake is open to the public for recreation and has become a popular spot for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. The lake is located in Camas, Washington, and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

The Lacamas Creek runs through the lake, and there are picnic tables available for visitors. The lake is also a great place to go for a swim or kayak. There are much different fish that can be caught in the lake, including bass, trout, and catfish.

Fishing is allowed in Lacamas Lake year-round. All anglers older than 15 must possess a current fishing license issued by the state of Washington. There is a limit on the number and size of fish that can be caught in the lake.

Only specific lake locations have been designated for swimming. There are lifeguards on duty during the swimming season, which runs from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.

There Are Two Public Boat Ramps On Lacamas Lake

  • There are two public boat ramps on Lacamas Lake that provide access to kayaks and other small watercraft.
  • One is located in the Lacamas Park area, a few miles north of downtown Camas. The other can be found near the Lacamas Bay Marina, just south of town.

The Lake Is Also Home To A Variety Of Wildlife, Including Eagles, Osprey, And Beavers

Lacamas Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, osprey, and beavers. There are several wildlife viewing areas around the lake that are open to the public.

You can launch your kayak from a beachfront that is fenced off. This area offers a great view of Lacamas Lake and its inhabitants.

There are also many private properties around Lacamas Lake that offer amazing views of their property for visitors to enjoy as well.

Lacamas Lake Is A Beautiful Spot For A Day On The Water

Lacamas Lake Is A Beautiful Spot For A Day On The Water
Lacamas Lake Is A Beautiful Spot For A Day On The Water

Lacamas Lake is a beautiful spot for a day on the water and is easily accessible from the Portland metro area. The lake is located in Camas, Washington, just across the border from Oregon.

Lacamas Lake is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. There are also several hiking trails around the lake.

Lacamas Lake is open to the public year-round. In the summer months, the lake is busiest on weekends. During the week, there are usually plenty of parking spots and picnic tables available.

In the winter months, the lake is still busy on weekends, but there are often more spaces available during the weekdays.

If you don’t have your own boat or kayak, there are many locations to rent them.

The water level of Lacamas Lake can fluctuate depending on rainfall, but it is typically about knee-deep near the shoreline.

Why Is Lacamas Lake A Popular Kayaking Destination?

Lacamas Lake is a popular kayaking destination because it’s easy to get to, has a variety of activities, and offers beautiful scenery. It’s easy to get to Lacamas Lake from the Portland metro area in just under two hours.

You can also find plenty of spots on the lake that make it easy to pull up and launch your kayak into the water or store it overnight if you plan on spending more than one day out enjoying nature. It doesn’t take much effort or energy at all.

If you feel like spending some time on land rather than in your kayak, there are several hiking trails around Lacamas Lake that offer picturesque views of Mount Hood along with other natural wonders, such as wildflowers blooming in springtime (or even throughout summer).

If biking is more your thing, then no worries—there are several trails for cyclists as well.

What Are The Rules And Regulations For Kayaking On Lacamas Lake?

What Are The Rules And Regulations For Kayaking On Lacamas Lake
What Are The Rules And Regulations For Kayaking On Lacamas Lake

Lacamas Lake and the surrounding area are not only beautiful but also very popular with people who want to get out into nature. Unfortunately, some of those visitors are not as respectful of the environment as they should be.

Here’s a quick rundown on some rules and regulations for kayaking on Lacamas Lake:

  • No swimming or wading in the lake where is restricted.
  • No littering on the shores of Lacamas Lake (including boat ramps)
  • No fishing from shorelines, private docks, or boats within 100 feet of shoreline; no fishing from lakeshore access points
  • Littering (including cigarette butts) is prohibited at all times; anyone caught littering may be subject to fines up to $500. You’d better bring your own trash bags! 😛

What Type Of Kayak Is Best For Lacamas Lake?

  • If you’re still a beginner, a kayak with a rudder is probably the best option.
  • A skeg is what you need if you’re an experienced kayaker who wants to move quickly.
  • If fishing is on your mind, then get yourself an ocean-going kayak (keel) with limited maneuverability – but lots of speed.

Are There Any Areas Of The Lake That Are Off-Limits To Kayakers?

Are There Any Areas Of The Lake That Are Off-Limits To Kayakers
Are There Any Areas Of The Lake That Are Off-Limits To Kayakers

There are some areas of the lake that you can’t kayak. You can’t launch your kayak from the boat launch. You also have to keep in mind that no swimming or fishing is allowed in the area around the boat launch, either.

Because this is a busy spot and many people use it as an entry point, you must stay off the water after sunset.

You are also prohibited from boating on Lacamas Lake during winter and spring run-off (which occurs between March 1st and May 1st).

This is because there isn’t enough water flow to accommodate boats at this time of year, but when spring arrives, there will be plenty of room for them.

Conclusion

Yes, Lacamas Lake is open for kayaking! You can paddle around the lake and enjoy the scenery with your family and friends. Just be sure to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the City of Camas.

Lacamas Lake is a beautiful spot for a day on the water. It’s easily accessible from the Portland Metro area and has become a popular destination for kayakers of all skill levels.

If you plan on heading out to Lacamas Lake this summer, make sure you know what to expect before you go. We hope you enjoyed this article on Lacamas Lake. 

For more information on kayaking in Camas, be sure to check out our other articles on our website. For information on Lacamas Lake and other kayaking locations in the area, follow us on social media.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to Lacamas lake?

Lacamas lake is located in Camas, WA, and is about a 30-minute drive from Portland, OR.

Are there any restrictions on hours or days that kayakers can use the lake?

There are no restrictions on time, but no swimming or fishing is allowed in the area around the boat launch, and boating is prohibited during winter and spring run-off (which occurs between March 1st and May 1st).

What is the best time of day to visit Lacamas Lake for kayaking?

The best time of day to visit Lacamas Lake is early in the morning or late in the evening when the lake is less crowded.
Be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. You may also want to bring a fishing rod if you’d like to fish from your kayak (fishing is allowed in Lacamas Lake).

Can I bring my own kayak, or do I need to rent one from a local shop at Lacamas Lake?

While bringing your own kayak is welcome, make sure to do so in accordance with any applicable Camas City ordinances. Additionally, you’ll need to have your own safety equipment, including a life jacket.