While Washington has plenty of beautiful ocean beaches, some of our most swimmer-friendly spots are often found lakeside. For example, it's well known that Lake Chelan has some of the clearest, bluest water in the state. And whether you plan to spend a single day or a long weekend by the lake, there's no better place to enjoy the water than Lake Chelan State Park.
Lake Chelan State Park is a 127-acre camping park that sits right on the shores of the lake.
The campground is a nostalgic place for Washingtonians to gather, many of whom have been camping here since the 1960s or 70s.
Lake Chelan State Park has a long, sandy beach, shaded picnic tables, and a peaceful lagoon.
Needless to say, it's tough to top this spot for summertime swimming. The park has about 6,000 feet of shoreline, and the beach is easily accessible by stairs.
If you'd like to camp, you'll have your choice of 103 standard sites, 17 of which have full hook-ups (18 more have partials hook-ups).
Needless to say, you'll want to make a reservation as early in the season as possible since they fill up fast.
Lake Chelan is known statewide for its clear, clean water.
Most of the water that enters the lake flows in from the Stehekin River and Railroad Creek, which are glacial fed. So while it won't ever be a warm swim, it will always be refreshing.
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This beautiful lake makes an amazing day trip or weekend destination in any season, but it's easy to see why it's one of Washington's top summertime vacation spots.
This just happens to be the third deepest lake in the country, and it's a prime place for boating, fishing, swimming, and paddle boarding.
Address: 7544 South Lakeshore Road, Chelan, WA, 98816
We're so lucky to have Lake Chelan here in Washington. It's even home to the most isolated spot in the state.
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