Ready for your next outdoor adventure? Why not load up the RV and head out to visit Lake West? It's a great place to spend the day on your next camping holiday.
Lake West finds its home in the southeastern portion of the state of Washington near to the town of Pasco. This body of water sits in a remote locale on the lower section of the Snake River. The area is an extremely popular destination for families looking to enjoy water sports and other outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, water-skiing, hunting, and fishing.
Lake West is incredibly scenic and has a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect locale for families looking to enjoy some rest and relaxation. The lake is found near to the small town of Palouse, an area renowned for its agriculture.
Hiking is one of the main attractions at Lake West. This body of water is one of two small lakes in the area, both of which are situated near to Mount Rainier, affording families the best of country living. Both Lake West and Lake Helen are low traffic areas, treating families to what feels like their own little private slice of paradise. There are several nearby camping facilities where families can enjoy the best of rural outdoor adventure either in their RV or their tent. Year-round, rustic style tent camping is available at a campground located within nearby Sacajawea Historical State Park.
For a relaxing RV adventure that will leave you longing to return time and again, consider a visit to Lake West. You'll have an amazing time.
Located in a remote area, travel to Lake West proceeds mostly on country roads of two-lane construction. Though you can get close to the lake in your vehicle, you will need to travel the remainder of the way on foot, so come prepared with proper walking shoes.
The route to Lake West follows along roads in moderate condition. Watch your speed to avoid damage to your car in bumpy sections. Traffic moves decently, and the roads are kept clear of snow in winter conditions. Road construction occurs very rarely.
An extremely rural location, this area sees wildlife entering the road from time to time. Remain alert when driving to avoid an accident.
Parking can be found in several spots though there is no formally designated lot at Lake West. It is important to note that to reach the lake itself, you will need to do some walking.
There is no public transportation to Lake West.
Sun Lakes-Dry Falls Campground is situated within a state park of the same name. This camping facility offers RV and tent camping from April 15th through September 15th yearly by reservation.
The property is home to 150 basic campsites and 41 sites offering full power and water hookups. There is an on-site waste disposal station as well as six bathrooms and 12 showers for campers to use. All campsites are furnished with fire pits.
Camping is permitted from October 1st through November 1st; however, during these times, no water or power is available.
Dogs may join their owners on their camping adventure but must remain leashed at all times.
The on-premise amenities include a convenience store, a laundromat, boat rentals, and a payphone.
Northwest Discovery Water Trail Campground offers tent camping on a first-come, first-served basis. The property has sufficient campsites to accommodate a maximum of eight people. Camping is permitted year-round, but the on-site bathrooms are closed from October through March each year.
Access to the campground is by boat only. Overnight docking is available.
The campground is found in Sacajawea Historical State Park.
Water sports activities are extremely popular at Lake West in the summer months. With a boat launch found right on the premises, you can bring along your motorized boats, paddleboards, jet skis, and more to this great recreational hot spot.
Canoeing and kayaking are also in-demand activities at Lake West. You can paddle out into the depths of the lake directly from the shore. Since fishing is plentiful at Lake West, why not bring along your tackle box and some bait and try your hand at some angling while out on the water? You might even be lucky enough to catch your supper!
Many people travel to Lake West each summer to enjoy getting their boats out on the water. Motorized boats are welcome here, but you can also enjoy a day out on the lake in your canoe or kayak if the old-fashioned way is more your cup of tea.
Fancy a day on the water, but don't own your own boat? Not to worry. Several area shops offer boat rentals by reservation. Also found on the grounds is a concession stand where you can purchase snacks and drinks for your day touring around the lake.
When the sun is high in the sky, and temperatures start to soar, you've got the perfect recipe for a day of picnicking fun. Pack a lunch from home and grab your best walking shoes and head out in search of the perfect spot from which to enjoy your lunch.
Several picnic tables are found throughout the grounds, but there are other spots at Lake West that provide an equally serene and beautiful backdrop to feast your eyes on while you nibble on your meal. Bring along a picnic blanket, so you can recline in the sand with the lake as your view or take a seat in one of the cleared areas that are lined with trees.
Your dog may join you on your picnic adventure, but please keep them leashed at all times.
Avid fishermen love to flock to Lake West for excellent fishing conditions. The lake is kept well-stocked with a wide variety of fish. Take out your motorized boat from the boat launch, head out in your canoe, or even fish directly from the shore; whichever way you choose, you are sure to have fun in your quest to catch the "big one!"
A fishing license is required to angle in Washington state waters, so be sure to pick one up in advance of your trip out on the lake.
You will want to check with park officials to see if filleting fish is permitted on the grounds or if you must wait to do it at home.
Hiking is one of Lake West's most popular attractions. Lake West and nearby Lake Helen are situated in remote locales near Mount Rainier and offer many different hiking trails for families to enjoy. The terrain is extremely hilly and can be both diverse and challenging in spots.
Among the most popular trails is the Glacier View trail system. Though the landscape is rough and rugged, the views are incredible, making this one set of trails you won't want to visit without a camera in hand.
Each of the trails is well-marked with thorough descriptions available online to assist you with selecting the right one to suit the fitness level and interests of each member of your hiking team.
A free day pass is required to hike any of the trails found at Lake West.
Lake West is home to many different species of wildlife, making it a haven for those who love to view unique animals in their natural habitat. Here, you will be treated to the sight of such interesting characters as deer, foxes, coyotes, and many varieties of waterfowl. On occasion, bald eagles can be glimpsed along the coast.
Be sure to bring along a naturalist's guide, your binoculars, and your camera, so you can identify then snap photos of the beauty of nature that you will discover along your journey. Good footwear that is appropriate for walking is a must since the terrain is extremely challenging at Lake West.
