
Bloedel Donovan Park
A beloved park on Lake Whatcom offering swimming, picnics, water sports, and scenic views for all.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Bloedel Donovan Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved park on Lake Whatcom offering swimming, picnics, water sports, and scenic views for all.
"Beautiful lake with spectacular views, perfect for swimming and family fun!"

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up fast. Consider carpooling!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Find shade under the older trees for a cool respite on hot summer days.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Whatcom Swimming Beach
South end of the park
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lake Whatcom, perfect for a summer day.

Picnic & Play Areas
Throughout the park
Spacious areas for picnics, a playground for kids, and a sand volleyball court for active fun.

Scenic Lake Views
Lakeside
Spectacular panoramic views of Lake Whatcom, surrounding mountains, and clear skies.

Dog-Friendly Zones
Designated off-leash areas
A great spot for your furry friends to play in designated off-leash areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Peak Enjoyment
Lake Whatcom Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up fast. Consider carpooling!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Find shade under the older trees for a cool respite on hot summer days.
🐶 Leash Up Your Pup
Dogs are welcome but must be in designated off-leash areas.
🛶 Water Sports Ready
Perfect for SUP, kayaking, and boating. Be mindful of invasive species protocols.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up fast. Consider carpooling!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Find shade under the older trees for a cool respite on hot summer days.
🐶 Leash Up Your Pup
Dogs are welcome but must be in designated off-leash areas.
🛶 Water Sports Ready
Perfect for SUP, kayaking, and boating. Be mindful of invasive species protocols.
🍩 Post-Swim Treat
Combine a lake jump with donuts from LaFeen's for a classic Bellingham experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular views of Lake Whatcom and the park's suitability for a wide range of activities like swimming, boating, and picnicking. While many enjoy the scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities, some note that the park can get quite crowded, leading to challenges with parking and finding secluded spots during peak times.
"Beautiful lake! All sorts of water people from SUP, kayak, jet skis, boats etc. The view is spectacular!!!"
Melanie Hill
"I visited Bloedel Donovan Park recently and enjoyed my time there, but I do wish it wasn’t so packed at different moments throughout the day with parking, the traffic due to construction, and finding good sitting areas away from others. I really loved the scenic outlook of Lake Whatcom on the water with views of mountain ranges and clear skies. Very picturesque!
I appreciated the snippets of wildlife that frequented the park during my stay and it was quite nice being shaded and lying underneath older trees to beat the heat of the day. The park seems rather accommodating to interests such as: boating, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and lounging. They even have a volleyball court and a playground for those with the energy for it. Dogs are allowed, but only in designated areas and if you love a good picnic, they have plenty of seating for it. If you are wanting to take a boat out, please be mindful of tracking in and out invasive aquatic species, as there are city members who discuss these precautions before entering the water. From the looks of it, it seems like a popular park, so there is that to consider as well. It’s definitely worth the time to visit and spend a few hours there, no matter what you get up to!"
Magnolia Riley
"Bloedel Donovan Park is a beautiful park. Great for swimming and picnics."
Endora Browning
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bloedel Donovan Park is located at 2214 Electric Ave, Bellingham, WA 98229. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Be aware of potential construction traffic in the area that might affect your commute.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends and during events. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Information on specific bus routes is not readily available, but checking with the local transit authority for routes serving the Electric Avenue area would be advisable.
Traffic can be heavy, particularly during peak hours and due to ongoing construction in Bellingham. Planning your visit outside of rush hour can help avoid delays.
While specific accessibility details are not provided, parks generally aim for some level of accessibility. It's best to contact the park directly for detailed information on pathways and facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bloedel Donovan Park is a public park and typically does not have an entrance fee for general access. Special events held at the park may have separate admission costs.
Park hours are generally from dawn to dusk, but it's always a good idea to check the official Bellingham Parks and Recreation website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
While there are many picnic areas, reservations are generally not required for casual use. For larger gatherings or events, it's advisable to inquire about potential reservation policies.
Bloedel Donovan Park hosts various events throughout the year, including the Lake Whatcom Triathlon and the Whatcom County Dahlia Society tuber sale. Check the Bellingham Parks and Recreation website for an event calendar.
Yes, boat launching is permitted. However, visitors are strongly advised to be mindful of and adhere to protocols for preventing the introduction of invasive aquatic species.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming at the beach, picnicking, playing on the playground, sand volleyball, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing by Lake Whatcom.
Absolutely! The park features a playground and a sandy beach area, making it a great destination for families.
Yes, dogs are permitted in designated off-leash areas, providing a space for your pets to enjoy the park as well.
Visitors have noted seeing snippets of wildlife, adding to the natural beauty of the park. Enjoy the natural surroundings!
The park offers spectacular scenic outlooks of Lake Whatcom, with views of mountain ranges and clear skies, making it very picturesque.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants or cafes within the park itself. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics.
The park offers plenty of seating for picnics throughout its grounds, with many spots providing lovely views of the lake.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, as it's a popular spot for picnics and family gatherings.
Bellingham has a vibrant food scene with numerous restaurants and cafes located a short drive from the park.
Information regarding specific grilling policies is not readily available. It's best to check with the park authorities or look for designated grilling areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers stunning photo opportunities with its scenic lake views, mountain backdrops, and the beach. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful here.
Yes, the expansive views of Lake Whatcom and the surrounding natural beauty make it an excellent location for landscape photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional or commercial use, or if photographing specific events, it's wise to check park regulations or seek permission.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks. It's crucial to check local regulations and park rules regarding drone operation before flying.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing sand toys for the beach and a frisbee or ball for the grassy areas. The accessibility of the lake for wading and splashing makes it a safe and enjoyable environment for younger children. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as shaded areas can be popular.
🐶 Dog Owners
Always ensure your dog is under voice control and that you clean up after them. While dogs are welcome in specific zones, they may not be permitted on the swimming beach or in the playground area, so be mindful of posted signs and park rules.
💧 Water Sports Enthusiasts
Remember to check the weather conditions before heading out and always prioritize safety. If you're launching a boat, be diligent about following protocols to prevent the introduction of invasive aquatic species, which is crucial for protecting the lake's ecosystem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing Lake Whatcom Activities
For those looking for a unique local experience, combining a swim with a visit to LaFeen's donuts is a cherished Bellingham tradition. The park's layout provides easy access to the water, making it convenient for a spontaneous dip or a planned day of aquatic fun. Remember to pack accordingly for your chosen activity, whether it's swimwear, a life jacket, or your own watercraft.
Family Fun and Relaxation
For adults and older children looking for some friendly competition, the sand volleyball court provides an energetic option. The park's well-maintained grounds and scenic lake views also make it a pleasant place for relaxation, whether you're lounging under the shade of mature trees or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Community Events and Local Charm
These events highlight the park's role as a central gathering place for the community. Experiencing one of these local happenings can offer a deeper insight into Bellingham's culture and provide unique photo opportunities. Keep an eye on the Bellingham Parks and Recreation schedule for upcoming events to make your visit even more memorable.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit