Living in the beautiful Spokane, Washington area offers us endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and recreation. From the majestic views of the nearby mountains to the sparkling waters of the numerous rivers and lakes, the natural beauty of this region is truly breathtaking.
Frequenting the many pristine lakes is a popular pastime for a lot of folks in the Spokane area. They’re natural wonders that offer a wide range of recreational activities and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re looking to relax on a sandy beach, fish for trophy-worthy catches, or explore the great outdoors, lakes have something for everyone.
From swimming and hiking to boating and camping, lakes are the perfect destination for a day trip or an extended vacation. With so many lakes to choose from, it’s easy to find one that fits your interests and preferences.
To help you narrow it down a bit, here’s a list of 4 must-see lakes near Spokane, Washington.
Lake Pend Oreille
Lake Pend Oreille is a true natural wonder, it’s Idaho’s biggest lake, stretching 43 miles long and boasting 111 miles of breathtaking shoreline. Not only is it the largest lake in Idaho, but it’s also one of the deepest in the nation, with a depth of 1,158 feet.
Carved out by Ice Age glaciers, it’s surrounded by the majestic northern Rocky Mountains, offering a wealth of natural splendor and fascinating history, both human and natural.
Lake Pend Oreille is a fantastic destination for a day of fun and adventure, it’s packed with plenty of parks, boat launches, picnic sites, and other attractions and facilities that will keep you entertained.
Some of the must-visit major parks include Farragut State Park at the southern tip of the lake; Whiskey Rock, a fee-free campground on the southeast shore; Garfield Bay, a county park and campground; City Beach in downtown Sandpoint with beautiful beaches, ball courts, playgrounds, and more.
The lake also offers plenty of options for boating, with many easily accessible boat launches. In Sandpoint, Bayview, and Hope, you can rent watercraft from jet skis to sailboats and kayaks from local companies. The lake also has several marinas with fuel docks, food, and services.
Lake Pend Oreille is home to a variety of wildlife, including ospreys, bald eagles, moose, deer, bears, and spawning kokanee salmon. Migrating waterfowl like swans, geese, and ducks can also be seen in certain areas of the lake.
As for fishing, this lake is known for its Kamloops (giant rainbow trout), mackinaw, and kokanee salmon, with large catches being common. The lake also offers other fishing challenges such as bass, pike, walleye, and various other trout species.
Priest Lake
Get ready to be mesmerized by Priest Lake, the shining “Crown Jewel” of Idaho’s lakes. With crystal clear and exceptionally clean water that’s deep enough to dive into, it’s no wonder why it’s known as the crown jewel of Idaho.
Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Priest Lake at the Indian Creek and Lionhead Units of Priest Lake State Park on the east side. These spots boast excellent day-use areas with wide, sandy beaches and designated swimming areas that are perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Looking for a spot to relax and enjoy a picnic on the west side of Priest Lake? Look no further. The USFS Priest Lake Ranger District has got you covered with well-maintained day-use and picnic facilities at Luby Bay Campground and Reeder Bay Campground (Ledgewood Picnic Area). Perfect for a peaceful lakeside lunch or a family gathering.
What about a little adventure? Check out the hidden gems on the west shoreline of the lake, where you’ll find numerous public land beaches, mostly at the northern end. These secluded spots are only accessible by boat or short hikes off the main trails, but trust us, the journey is worth it for the secluded and breathtaking views.
Lake Coeur D’Alene
Escape to the picturesque Lake Coeur d’Alene, nestled south of Lake Pend Oreille and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
As the second largest lake in northern Idaho, it too was carved out by the great lobes of the continental ice cap during the last Ice Age, creating a stunning mountain setting that’s perfect for all your outdoor adventures.
Lake Coeur d’Alene is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 26 miles of shimmering water and 135 miles of picturesque shoreline. The lake is dotted with a variety of recreational facilities like parks, campgrounds, beaches, and trails, making it the perfect destination for your next adventure.
The lake is fed by the mighty Coeur d’Alene River and St. Joe River and its outlet flows into the Spokane River, making it a true natural wonder and a must-see destination for water enthusiasts coming to the Spokane area.
The lake is a beautiful wonder ensuring a perfect balance of water and nature.
Lake Roosevelt
With a massive 80,000 acres, Lake Roosevelt is Washington’s biggest reservoir. This impoundment on the Columbia River stretches from the Canadian border near Northport, WA down to the Grand Coulee Dam, making it a must-see destination for water lovers.
National Park Service manages the entire 150-mile length of Lake Roosevelt for recreational purposes, making it a perfect spot for all your water activities. With dozens of access areas, you’ll find everything from remote boat-in campgrounds to beaches and resorts, making it the perfect spot for a day trip or an extended vacation.
When it comes to exploring Lake Roosevelt, the nearest developed area is Fort Spokane, 58 miles away. There, you’ll find a variety of options for a day on the lake, including a beach, boat ramp, and a resort with rentals and campgrounds, perfect for any kind of trip you have in mind.
For an all-in-one, convenient destination, be sure to check out Seven Bays Marina, just 1 hour and 15 minutes away. It’s an excellent option that won’t disappoint.
Lake Roosevelt offers a wide range of experiences, whether you’re looking for a secluded getaway with no one in sight or an action-packed adventure with party boats and waterparks, it all depends on what you desire. It’s a lake that can cater to all your needs.
This majestic lake is a playground for all kinds of activities, with no restrictions on what you can do. Whether you’re into swimming, hiking, wildlife photography, or snorkeling, the possibilities are endless. The sky is the limit when it comes to fun and adventure at this unique destination.
Roosevelt is also a true paradise for anglers, offering a highly-rated fishery with a diverse array of species. It’s home to the state record for kokanee salmon (6.25 pounds) and boasts excellent shoreline access all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fishing, this lake is sure to be a great catch.
Something for Everyone
Visiting a lake can be a fun and enjoyable experience for people of all ages. The natural beauty of the lake, the fresh air, and the peacefulness of the environment can be a great way to relax and unwind.
With so many different options, a day at the lake can make for a perfect getaway. Plus, it’s a great way to spend time with friends and family and create lasting memories.
Visiting a lake provides an opportunity for memorable experiences for all. Regardless of whether you are a casual traveler, passionate nature enthusiast, or experienced outdoor adventurer, a lake visit will leave a lasting impression.