
Lake Sammamish State Park
A 512-acre waterfront oasis with sandy beaches, boat launches, and family-friendly amenities, perfect for summer fun and nature exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat

Lake Sammamish State Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 512-acre waterfront oasis with sandy beaches, boat launches, and family-friendly amenities, perfect for summer fun and nature exploration.
"The photos don't do it justice; the nature here is sublime and gets better with each passing moment."

🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, for the best parking spots. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🎟️ Discover Pass Needed
A Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required for entry. Purchase in advance to save time.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandy Beaches & Lakeside Play
South Beach
Miles of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and wading into the refreshing lake waters.

Waterfront Activities Galore
Lake Sammamish
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bring your own boat for a day of fun on the water.

Salmon Habitat Restoration
Issaquah Creek
Witness ongoing efforts to restore vital salmon habitats and learn about the park's ecological importance.

Family-Friendly Playground
Near the beach
A large, engaging playground that keeps kids entertained for hours while parents relax nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Summer Fun
Discover Pass for Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, for the best parking spots. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🎟️ Discover Pass Needed
A Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required for entry. Purchase in advance to save time.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense, especially near the water.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of picnic tables and BBQ areas available. Pack a lunch or grill up a feast!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, for the best parking spots. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🎟️ Discover Pass Needed
A Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required for entry. Purchase in advance to save time.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense, especially near the water.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of picnic tables and BBQ areas available. Pack a lunch or grill up a feast!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring trails and walking along the beach.
🛶 Water Gear Recommended
Bring swimsuits, towels, and water toys for a full day of lake enjoyment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lake Sammamish State Park's beautiful lake, clean beaches, and ample space for relaxation and recreation. It's a beloved spot for swimming, picnics, and family fun, with many appreciating the well-maintained facilities and scenic views. Some minor concerns include occasional restroom cleanliness and duck droppings on the beach before summer.
"Lake Sammamish State Park from our point of view is the most beautiful lake in the state.
There’s a playground and a lovely bike path, sure. But there’s also an amazing lake with stunning views to enjoy.
There’s the old cliche - the photos don’t do it justice.
Grab something to float on and launch off one of the peers or beaches and just float around. It’ll hit you: the nature here is sublime.
Spending 5 hours at Lake Sammamish is what I imagine a day at church feels like for the religious. It just feels amazing, and gets better with each passing moment.
I highly recommend the park during the warm months.
If you’re a boater, the launch area is easy to use, and very accommodating. There’s an amazing amount of trailer parking. And the process of moving your boat to the water alongside other people is a breeze."
Dale Burks
"Beautiful Lake with Room to Relax
Loved spending the day at this lake—plenty of parking, a clean beach, and peaceful views made it a great spot to unwind. It’s well-maintained overall, but the restrooms could use more frequent cleaning. Still, a great getaway for swimming, picnics, or just soaking up nature."
Zohaib Khan
"A great place for fishing, swimming and spending time with friends and family.
A perfect place for a picnic spot.
A large hose pipe is available for washing your boat after bringing it back to your car."
Annu Priya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Sammamish State Park is located in Issaquah, WA. It's easily accessible by car via I-90. Take exit 15 for Front Street and follow signs for the park. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is ample parking available, including a large amount of trailer parking for boaters. However, it can fill up quickly on busy summer weekends, so arriving early is advised.
Absolutely! The park features an easy-to-use boat launch area with plenty of trailer parking, making it a breeze for boaters to get on the water.
Yes, the park boasts a lovely bike path that's great for leisurely rides and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Public transportation options to Lake Sammamish State Park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry to Lake Sammamish State Park requires a Washington State Parks Discover Pass. You can purchase a daily or annual pass online or at various locations.
You can purchase a Discover Pass online through the Washington State Parks website or at select retail locations. It's recommended to buy it in advance to avoid delays.
The park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have different hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Washington State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
The entrance fee is covered by the Washington State Parks Discover Pass. Daily passes are available for purchase if you don't have an annual pass.
While there are many picnic areas and tables, they are typically on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is the best way to secure a good spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, grilling, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and exploring the trails. There's also a large playground for kids.
Yes, public washrooms are available, typically located opposite the cafe. While generally clean, some reviews mention they could use more frequent cleaning.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Lake Sammamish State Park, especially during the warm summer months. The beach area is generally well-maintained.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity here. The park offers bank fishing opportunities, particularly around the southern park area.
Yes, rentals such as bikes, tricycles, paddleboards, and pedal boats are often available, adding to the fun activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a wide array of restaurants within the park, there is a cafe. Many visitors opt for picnics or BBQs, taking advantage of the available facilities.
Yes, the park is well-equipped with barbecue areas, making it a perfect spot for a cookout with family and friends.
Bring your favorite picnic foods, drinks, a blanket or tablecloth, and any utensils you'll need. Don't forget trash bags to keep the park clean.
Yes, the nearby city of Issaquah has several grocery stores where you can stock up on picnic supplies before heading to the park.
Yes, there is a cafe located within the park, offering some food and beverage options.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The sandy beaches, piers, and surrounding greenery provide beautiful backdrops.
Yes, with its diverse habitats, including the lake and creek areas, it's a great spot for nature photography, especially during salmon runs or when observing birdlife.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Golden hour is particularly beautiful over the lake.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's specific regulations before flying a drone.
The expansive lake views, the piers extending into the water, and the playground area with families enjoying themselves are all popular photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
🌳 Nature Lovers and Volunteers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Activities and Rentals
Remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and any personal flotation devices you might need. The water can be refreshing, especially during the summer months. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow any posted safety guidelines. The park's piers also offer convenient spots to launch your watercraft or simply cast a line for fishing.
Ecological Restoration Efforts
These restoration efforts are not just about planting trees; they involve understanding the complex needs of salmon, such as the importance of large wood debris in the creek for creating diverse aquatic environments. Visitors can learn about these initiatives through interpretive signage or by participating in volunteer events, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation while enjoying the park.
Family Fun and Playgrounds
The park's sandy beaches are also ideal for children to build sandcastles and play in the shallow water. Combined with the playground, it creates a perfect environment for a family outing. Many reviews highlight the park as a go-to spot for kids to enjoy the outdoors.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit