Vancouver Lake Park - Vancouver, Washington - A Scenic Park with Views of Three Major Mountains

Vancouver Lake Park is situated along northwest Lower River Road in Vancouver, Washington. The 234-acre park spans for about 2.5 miles along the western shore of Vancouver Lake and offers 35 developed acres of parkland for visitors to enjoy.

The park also features such amenities as covered picnic shelters and uncovered picnic areas. Power and water is available in the covered and reservable picnic shelters. Park rental options are available to the public. The entire park may be rented and will hold a capacity of 6,500 people at a rate of $430 per day. Other rental options for wedding events, receptions, family reunions, and other events include gazebo corners or covered shelters at a rate of $75 per day. A damage deposit is required and must be paid with the rental balance on the first day of the month preceding the event. This deposit is refundable within 30 days of the end of the event, less any incurred repair costs caused by damage during the event. If the event draws more than 500 people a special event permit may be required by the city.

The park serves as a wildlife haven and area for migratory waterfowl to frequent. The views are magnificent and on clear days offer images of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens. Trails surround the park and the 2.5 mile multi use trail connects Vancouver Lake Park to Frenchman's Bar Regional Park which offers 120 acres of lush recreational area. The trail is popular among joggers, bikers, with even some occasional equestrian use.

There is no boat launch but swimming is allowed in designated and roped off areas of the lake next to the sandy beach. Lifeguards are not on duty at the lake and adult supervision of children is strongly urged. Vancouver Lake is known as a great venue for beginning windsurfers, canoers, and kayakers. The lake hosts various college and professional rowing competitions throughout the year. Along the outskirts of the lake lies the sandy beach which provides the perfect environment for beach volleyball on the already existing sand volleyball courts. Children's play equipment is also located within the park. Open play fields are also available for soccer or Frisbee. Public restrooms are located at the park.

There is no fee for pedestrians or bicyclists to enter Vancouver Lake Park and the park is open to the public from 7 a.m. to dusk. A small fee for parking vehicles is required and ranges from $1 for motorcycles to $6 for buses. The standard vehicle fee is $2 per car or truck. Cars with trailers cost $4 to park. New season parking passes are available and for $40 allows parking at 4 major Vancouver parks such as Vancouver Lake Park, Lewisville, Klineline, and Frenchman's Bar. The park provides inviting open spaces and is a principal venue for many outdoor events for the city's public. Locals love Vancouver Lake Park, especially during the summer season.