The 10 Best Lakes, Rivers, and Parks in Southwest Washington – Your Ultimate Outdoor Guide 🌲💦

Welcome to Southwest Washington, where majestic rivers, serene lakes, and lush green parks make this region an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking to spend the day kayaking, hiking, swimming, or just unwinding with nature, this area is packed with stunning places to explore.

And the best part? After a day of adventure, there are amazing local coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries to complete the perfect PNW experience.

Here’s your guide to the 10 must-visit lakes, rivers, and parks in Southwest Washington.

1. Lacamas Lake – The Crown Jewel of Camas 🚣‍♂️🌿

Lacamas Lake is the heartbeat of Camas, offering paddleboarding at sunrise, scenic hiking trails, and a perfect place to escape into nature. It’s the kind of lake where you can start your morning with a peaceful kayak ride and end your day watching the sunset glow over the water.

What to Do:

• Hike the Lacamas Heritage Trail, a 3.5-mile scenic route along the lake
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters
• Grab a coffee from a downtown Camas café and take a morning walk by the lake

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Camas is a highly walkable town with a charming historic downtown, great schools, and easy access to nature.

2. Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise 🦅🌾

If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and a front-row seat to nature, the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit. With bald eagles soaring overhead and herons wading through the wetlands, it’s a place where time slows down and the PNW’s natural beauty takes center stage.

What to Do:

• Walk the wildlife trails and spot deer, otters, and birds
• Drive the 4-mile auto tour for scenic views from your car
• Bring a camera—the sunrise and sunset views here are unreal

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Ridgefield is a hidden gem—a small town with a strong sense of community, a historic downtown, and plenty of local wineries and breweries.

3. Moulton Falls – The Fairytale Waterfall Spot 🌊🏞️

Moulton Falls is straight out of a storybook—with a historic stone bridge arching over emerald waters, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of rushing falls. In the summer, locals love swimming in the crystal-clear pools below the falls.

What to Do:

• Walk across the iconic stone bridge for breathtaking views
• Take a dip in the swimming hole below the falls
• Hike the East Fork Lewis River Trail for forested scenery

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Moulton Falls is just a short drive from Battle Ground, a town known for its laid-back vibe, great schools, and access to both city life and outdoor adventure.

4. Battle Ground Lake – A Hidden Volcanic Treasure 🌋🚣‍♀️

Did you know Battle Ground has a volcanic crater lake? Yep, and it’s one of the best-kept secrets for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

What to Do:

• Kayak across the calm, clear waters
• Fish for rainbow trout
• Hike the wooded trails surrounding the lake

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Battle Ground is one of the fastest-growing towns in Clark County, offering rural charm with modern amenities.

5. Lake Merwin – The Ultimate Boating Destination 🚤🏕️

For those who love wide-open water and high-energy lake days, Lake Merwin is the place to be. It’s a favorite for wakeboarders, jet skiers, and boaters looking for big water adventure.

What to Do:

• Rent a pontoon boat or jet ski
• Swim at Speelyai Bay Park
• Fish for kokanee and bass

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Lake Merwin is just outside Woodland, a town known for its quick access to Vancouver, the Columbia River, and the Cascade Mountains.

6. Columbia River Waterfront – Vancouver & Kalama 🌅🚶‍♀️

The Columbia River is the lifeblood of Southwest Washington, and both Vancouver and Kalama have stunning waterfront parks and trails. Whether you’re walking the Vancouver Waterfront or enjoying Kalama’s riverwalk, the views are unbeatable.

What to Do:

• Walk or bike the Vancouver Waterfront Trail
• Explore Kalama’s marina, beach, and shops
• Grab a drink at one of the riverfront restaurants

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Both Vancouver and Kalama offer easy access to the outdoors with a growing food, arts, and shopping scene.

7. Lewisville Regional Park – The Best Picnic Spot 🏕🌲

This Clark County gem is a go-to for families, picnics, and peaceful river walks. It’s one of the most accessible and well-maintained parks in the area.

What to Do:

• Have a picnic under the massive trees
• Walk along the East Fork Lewis River
• Play disc golf, soccer, or volleyball in the open fields

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Lewisville Park is just minutes from Battle Ground, making it one of the most family-friendly areas to live in.

8. Coldwater Lake – A Mount St. Helens Wonder 🏔️💦

Coldwater Lake is a hidden alpine paradise, formed by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. With mirror-like water and towering peaks, it’s a must-visit for those who love remote and peaceful escapes.

What to Do:

• Kayak across the pristine lake
• Hike the Coldwater Lake Trail
• Explore the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Living near Coldwater Lake means having direct access to some of Washington’s most incredible volcanic landscapes.

9. Dougan Falls – The Ultimate Summer Swim Spot 💦☀️

If you love chasing waterfalls, Dougan Falls is one of the best places to take a dip in the summer. The clear, deep water pools are perfect for a refreshing swim.

What to Do:

• Swim in the emerald-green pools
• Picnic by the river
• Explore the surrounding trails

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Washougal offers quick access to Portland and the Columbia River Gorge.

10. Sunset Falls – The Hidden Waterfall Retreat 🌲🏞️

For an off-the-beaten-path waterfall, Sunset Falls is the perfect secluded forest escape.

What to Do:

• Hike the forested trails
• Enjoy a peaceful riverside picnic
• Watch the sunset over the falls

🏡 Why You'll Love Living Nearby:
Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a dream for nature lovers, with endless hiking and camping opportunities.

After Your Adventure—Eat, Sip, and Shop Local

A day of exploring deserves a great meal, a craft beer, or a cozy coffee shop stop.

Morning: Grab a latte from your favorite local coffee shop in Camas, Ridgefield, or Kalama.
Afternoon: Hit the trails, swim, or paddle at one of these stunning spots.
Evening: Wind down with a locally brewed craft beer and a delicious dinner.