Lake Easton: a reservoir of recreational activities

Published 11:00 am Thursday, August 21, 2025

Editor’s note: We have spent time this summer focusing on the great outdoors: namely, some of the noteworthy campgrounds and trails found in the Evergreen State. Most of the campgrounds have been within a reasonable driving distance from the Plateau and the same goes for trails. This series has, hopefully, provided encouragement to get on the road and enjoy life outside – whether pitching a tent or “glamping” in a luxurious motor home, whether walking a paved pathway or mountain trail.

This series began with a look at Dosewallips State Park and Week 2 told of a local, unpaved section of the Foothills Trail. Week 3 featured a report on Manchester State Park, followed by a hike at the Little Mashel Falls trail in Eatonville, a camping report from Steamboat Rock State Park and, then, a hike along the trails of Federation Forest State Park. The past two weeks have featured a camping trip to Wenatchee Confluence State Park and a trek into the Green River Gorge. Today, we wrap up the summer with a short drive over the Cascades to Lake Easton State Park.

All campgrounds and trails were visited by the author, his wife and, usually, their dogs. They aren’t exactly “roughing it” these days, having long ago abandoned a tent for a travel trailer.

A never-ending stream of vehicles speed across Interstate 90, either concluding their descent from Snoqualmie Pass or preparing to climb the Cascades. It’s a safe bet that most on the freeway are oblivious to the natural wonder that sits just beyond their view.

We speak here of Lake Easton State Park, one of many outstanding destinations in the state system. Not too long a trip from busy Puget Sound, the 697 acres of forest and sparkling water provide plenty of opportunities for week-long campers or day-use visitors.

At the heart of the park is Lake Easton (a reservoir) which is fed by the Yakima River that flows into the west end of the lake and continues out the southwest end. The Kachess River also feeds the lake, coming in from the north.

Let’s talk camping: The campground features primitive sites without hookups to sites with full utilities (power, water and sewer). There are some that will accommodate even the most luxurious guest, able to handle 60-foot recreational vehicles. A couple of things to note from recent visits: some sites can require tricky maneuvering due to trees; also, the proximity of I-90 traffic can, in some places, do battle with the “outdoor vibe.” The state website even recommends earplugs for light sleepers.

While Lake Easton State Park appeals to those who like to get physical with walking, hiking, biking or kayaking, it should be noted this is a very family-friendly place. From playground equipment to an identified swimming area (no lifeguards) and horseshoe pit, it appeals to all ages and all fitness levels.

Like many parks there is a group camp area that will accommodate up to 50 people. It’s a walk-in area designed for tent campers.

Take a hike: Lake Easton State Park is home to a network of trails that can provide a walk (or bike ride) of up to five miles.

While some of the lake loop is quiet and scenic – crossing a great old bridge and passing through a tunnel that serves as a reminder of the railroad days – other parts are not so outdoorsy. Taking a full loop leads into the small town of Easton: interesting, yes, but all pavement.

On the water: This is a great place for the kayak set who can easily put in at the lone boat launch. There’s plenty of open water to explore but a couple of side excursions prove to be even more interesting. A quick bit of paddling will find kayakers passing under the side-by-side stretches of Interstate 90, a unique (and rumbling) experience to be sure. Going the opposite way you’ll pass under another bridge and enter the river.

Not everyone wants to paddle and motorized boating is allowed, though motors are limited to 10 horsepower. Any type of high-speed boating is frowned upon, as Lake Easton has, in places, stumps near the water’s surface.

While in the area: Looking to expand your scope just a bit? The nearby towns of Cle Elum and Roslyn are evolving and are worth a day trip. Heading east a bit farther on I-90 and you’re in Ellensburg, home to Central Washington University.

A physical challenge awaits at neighboring Suncadia where visitors can challenge the well-known 1,000 Steps, a staircase leading from the lodge to the Cle Elum River. The equivalent of climbing 21 flights, it’s plenty interesting on the way down, a bit tougher getting back to the top.

A bit of park history: Like most land everywhere, the area in and around Lake Easton State Park was used for thousands of years by indigenous people. In 1855 land was ceded to the U.S. government, though tribes maintained their right to harvest natural resources in their traditional locations.

Eventually, land was turned over to private ownership though a huge swath was given for the building of railroad lines. The area was forever changed with the coming of major roadways – first the Sunset Highway and, later, Interstate 90.

In 1957 talks between the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission resulted in development of recreation opportunities along the Lake Easton reservoir. The park was opened to the public in summer 1961.