 | ||||||
Located just West of Vancouver, Washington, Vancouver Lake lies east of the Columbia River, south of Ridgefield, Washington and the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Other small lakes of Washington, such as Shillapoo Lake and Post Office Lake lie downstream of Vancouver Lake. The lake is just over two miles wide and covers an area of 2,858 acres. It is fed primarily by Burnt Bridge Creek and the Columbia River.
Wildlife is abundant in and about the lake. Originally, the lake was home to the White Sturgeon until the early 20th century. Having replaced the Sturgeon, Crappie, Catfish and Bass currently dominate the fish population, providing excellent sport fishing. The warm weather accompanied by a rich environment provides habitat for amphibians such as tree frogs and reptiles including garter snakes as well as a plethora of bird varieties, including larger species like Great Blue Herons, Ospreys and Bald Eagles. The bank of the lake is home to larger mammals including Raccoons, Deer, Beaver and Otters.
The lake area is a hub for golf, kayaking, canoeing, sail boarding, swimming, bicycling, bird dog training, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, running and triathlons. There is also plentiful hunting and fishing in the area.
Lake View Golf Course the views of the lake are beautiful. Dual tees and dual pin placements – including one tee in the lake! This par-3 course has been rated the most difficult in the nation.
Vancouver Lake Park – sprawls over an area of 234 acres adjacent to the lake with permanent restroom facilities and volleyball courts as well as play structures for children. This popular picnic spot is frequented by locals as well as visitors from distant areas. The park provides picturesque views of the five volcanoes – Mount Rainer and Mount St. Helens to the north, Mount Hood and Mount Adams to the east and Mount Jefferson to the south.
Frenchman’s Bar Park – spreads over a lush 120 acres with over a mile of sandy beaches. The two-and-a-half-mile, 12-foot wide Frenchman’s Bar Trail connects it to the Vancouver Lake Park.
Vancouver Lake Sailing Club – is a short walk from the property. This family oriented club has about 280 members and is dedicated to the sailing and racing of small sailboats. The club has an active sailing school with lessons throughout the summer months.
Vancouver Lake Crew and Rowing – Begun in February 2002, this non-profit organization is dedicated to the development of the area. The crew offers year-round opportunities to rowers of all ages. The lake has hosted Northwest Collegiate Rowing Conference events for the last twenty years.
