Get the Inside Scoop on Lakewood’s Most Popular Lakes
Those who love spending time outdoors will more than appreciate the gorgeous and exciting opportunities that await along the shores of Lakewood’s many fabulous lakes! From swimming, biking, and walking to picnicking and bird-watching, something that every member of the family will love is just waiting to be discovered.
Check out 2 of our favorite lakes in Lakewood, American Lake and Waughop Lake and see what makes each one special:
Located at 9222 Veterans Dr. S.W. Lakewood, WA 98498 (Public Park Access)
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to recharge, Carli Santa Cruz and Daniel Tilley have a suggestion: “American Lake,” recommends Carli. “[It has] great public or private accesses.” “[I recommend] American [Lake], especially if you can get out Monday through Friday when it's pretty quiet,” Daniel shares. “I've been fortunate to have a getaway on Silcox Island since I was a kid, so I'm a bit biased.”
This lake offers a wide variety of amenities, including a sheltered picnic area, year-round restrooms, a playground, swimming beach, and a public boat launch. $15.00 allows you a single launch of your boat, or you can purchase a seasonal pass at Lakewood City Hall. For more information on launching your boat at American Lake, click here.
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Located at 8714 87th Ave. S.W. Lakewood, WA 98498
Whether you want a nice place for your next workout or a quiet spot to admire the beautiful scenery of Lakewood, you will find what you’re looking for along the shores of Carli and Carrie Hall’s pick. “[At Waughop Lake you] can't swim, but they have boat racing and it's exactly 1 mile around the lake, perfect for walking or running,” shares Carli.
“I love Waughop Lake,” says Carrie. “It's conveniently located near Fort Steilacoom Park, has ample parking and is a great place to mountain bike, walk, or just sit and admire nature, especially the birds. This spring, we had fun watching the goslings and baby ducks follow their (very attentive) parents around the lake. Also, if you wander off the paved trail and up a hill near Pierce College, you'll get the best of both worlds, a view of the Sound, and a magnificent view of Mt. Tahoma.”
You can wear in your new pair of running shoes on one of the lake’s surrounding trails, or give your furry friend some much-needed exercise at the nearby off-leash dog park. With an added play area for the kids and opportunities to pick fresh, delicious blackberries along the way, there is no end to the wonders that await around this natural beauty!
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