Lake Sammamish State Park – Your Complete Guide

2000 NW Sammamish Rd, Issaquah, WA 98027

Access	Open daily from 6:30 AM ’til dusk (year round). A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access. Daily passes: $10, annual passes: $30. More info: Discover Pass web page
Ammenities	3 reservable shelters + open picnic tables throughout 2 large playgrounds near the main beach and picnic areas 9 watercraft launches, parking for 250 car/boat-trailer combos Multiple restrooms with showers and changing rooms at the beach areas 2 sandy beaches (Sunset Beach (main beach), Tibbetts Beach)
Camping	No individual camping. Youth group camping area available for up to 200 people and 40 cars.
Lake Sammamish State Park Trails	Tibbetts Creek – 0.5 mi Jogger’s Loop – 0.6 mi Orchard Loop – 0.8 mi NW Sammamish Rd – 1 mi Homestead – 0.6 mi Issaquah Creek – 1.3 mi Boat Launch – 0.4 mi
ADA Amenities	Accessible restrooms, hiking trail, playground
Concessions	Sunset Beach Cafe (weekends May & September, daily mid-June to Labor Day), Issaquah Paddle Sports rentals (same schedule)

If you’ve spent any time around the east side of Seattle, you’ve probably heard someone mention Lake Sammamish State Park—and for good reason. It’s one of those places that somehow feels laid back and packed with things to do at the same time. Whether I’m out with my kids on the playgrounds, meeting friends for a picnic, or sneaking in a quiet walk along Issaquah Creek, it always hits that perfect mix of nature and convenience.

The park itself covers over 500 acres, with two lakefront beaches, boat launches, hiking trails, and wetlands that are home to everything from herons and beavers to the occasional bald eagle. It’s also one of the most accessible state parks in the area—just off I‑90 in Issaquah—making it an easy spot for a quick afternoon escape or a full day outdoors. If you’re into birdwatching or paddleboarding, there’s plenty of space to roam, and you’ll often see locals making the most of it year-round.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to expect, what to skip, and how to make the most of your visit to Lake Sammamish State Park. From swimming beaches and hiking trails to local wildlife and a bit of the park’s history, here’s everything you need to know.

History and Background of Lake Sammamish State Park

Long before it became a go-to spot for beach days and paddleboarding, this stretch of land was home to the Coast Salish people, including the Sammamish Tribe. For generations, they lived along the lake and Issaquah Creek, fishing for salmon, harvesting roots like camas, and holding gatherings in longhouses built from local cedar. The creek, which still winds through the park today, was a vital source of food and community life.

When settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, the land began to change. Farming took over—first hops, then dairy—and the area became a patchwork of private homesteads. You can still spot traces of that era if you know where to look, like open meadows that once served as grazing land. It wasn’t until the early 1950s that the state started purchasing property here, and by 1953, Lake Sammamish officially became a state park.

That layered history—Indigenous roots, early agriculture, and now public recreation—gives the park more depth than most people realize. It’s easy to spend a day here and not think twice about what came before, but knowing a little background somehow makes the place feel more grounded.

Recreational Activities and Facilities

Lake Sammamish State Park features an expansive network of hiking and biking trails designed to cater to hikers of varying skill levels and interests, from leisurely strolls through lush meadows to challenging climbs into forested hills – there is something here for every adventurer – including Beaver Lake Trail with its easy 1.3-mile loop or more challenging Tibbetts Marsh Trail (3.5-mile roundtrip loop).

To ensure safe and enjoyable excursions, hikers and bicyclists should wear appropriate footwear, and carry enough water/ snacks while staying on designated paths so as to reduce environmental impacts.

Water-Based Activities

Kayaking and Canoeing Activities

Lake Sammamish offers tranquil waters ideal for enjoying water activities of all sorts and offers both motorized boat launch facilities as well as kayak and canoe rental opportunities on site for visitors looking to try paddling out or simply unwind and relax on its tranquil surface.

The park features boat launches for motorized vessels as well as dedicated areas for kayaks and canoes; renting them easily makes getting out on the water effortless!

Swimming and Beach Areas

Two sandy beaches within the park – Sunset Beach and Tibbetts Beach – provide ample room for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. Lifeguards are present during summer months to provide a safe experience; beachgoers should follow posted rules and regulations and swim with at least one person when possible.

Fishing opportunities Lake Sammamish offers fishing enthusiasts plenty of fishing opportunities with trout, bass, and kokanee salmon all readily available year-round (if you have a license, that is).

Picnicking and Day-Use Areas

Lake Sammamish State Park provides numerous picnic areas complete with tables, grills, and restrooms that offer scenic settings perfect for family reunions, birthday celebrations or simply enjoying lunch in nature. Some shelters and sites can be reserved in advance while others are available first come, first serve. For reservations inquiries visit their website or reach out directly to their park office.

Sports Facilities and Playgrounds

Visitors looking to participate in more structured activities will find plenty to do at the park, from soccer fields and softball courts to volleyball courts and playgrounds dotted throughout. Facilities may also be reserved in advance for group events.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Spotting

Birdwatching in Central Park’s diverse ecosystems is an increasingly popular pastime, and over 200 bird species have been observed within its boundaries, from waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, and songfinches – with mammals, amphibians and reptiles also found there – making this park an oasis for wildlife observation!

For an optimal wildlife-watching experience, visitors should bring binoculars for viewing purposes while moving quietly and respecting animal spaces.

Lake Sammamish State Park provides visitors with endless recreational activities and breathtaking natural beauty to make it the ideal Pacific Northwest retreat. Explore trails on foot or paddle across tranquil waters – this state park will leave lasting memories for everyone visiting!

Planning Your Trip To Lake Sammamish State Park

Location and Directions

Lake Sammamish State Park is located at 2000 NW Sammamish Rd, Issaquah, WA 98027, along the southern shore of Lake Sammamish. It’s easily accessible from both Seattle and Bellevue via Interstate 90. Just take Exit 15, head north on 17th Avenue NW (which turns into NW Sammamish Road), and continue for about 1.4 miles. The main park entrance will be on your left.

Public transit riders can access the park via Metro routes 200, 216, 217, and 927

Park Hours and Entrance Fees

Washington State Parks’ Discovery Passes must be purchased to access this park by vehicle – one-day passes may cost $10; annual passes cost $30 or can be bought directly at the park entrance or retail outlets in your locality. For more information about fees and passes, you can visit their website.

Accessibility for People with Disabilities

Lake Sammamish State Park offers strong accessibility support for visitors of all abilities. There are ample ADA-designated parking spaces near key facilities, including the bathhouses and information center. The park provides wheelchair-friendly paved and compacted gravel paths, such as sections of the Native Plant Interpretive Trail, perfect for strollers, walkers, and chairs. Both restrooms and buildings are ADA-accessible, and Sunset Beach features an ADA-access ramp that leads right into the water and connects to an inclusive playground.

For adaptive sports, Outdoors for All hosts an Adaptive Cycling Center at Sunset Beach, offering free trikes, handcycles, tandems, and adaptive bikes during the warmer months. There’s even an Action Trackchair available by reservation—a battery-powered chair with caterpillar-style tracks that can roll across sand and grass. Finally, adaptive kayaking and paddleboarding programs are regularly facilitated by partner groups, ensuring inclusive water access for those with disabilities

Available Accommodation and Camping Options in the Nearby Regions

Although there aren’t significant public camping sites within the park itself, nearby campgrounds and RV parks do provide accommodations.

What Lake Sammamish State Park does have is the the Hans Jensen Group Camp, ideal for youth organizations, large families, retreat groups, or Scout troops. Nestled beside Laughing Jacobs Creek across East Lake Sammamish Parkway, this group campground accommodates up to 200 campers and 40 vehicles, with 36 picnic tables, 7 fire rings, two amphitheaters, and four vault toilets.

If you’re hoping for a solo tent site or RV hook-up, you’ll need to look elsewhere—consider nearby campgrounds like Tolt MacDonald Park, Tall Chief Campground, or Dash Point State Park, all just a short drive away .

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

While Lake Sammamish State Park is open year-round, the experience can vary a lot depending on the season so you’ll want to plan your trip accordingly.

Summers in the area are typically warm and dry, with highs in the 70s and low 80s°F. It’s peak season, especially on weekends, so expect crowds at the beaches, full picnic tables, and a busy boat launch. Still, if you don’t mind the buzz, it’s a great time for swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking up some sun.

Winters are much quieter. Temperatures tend to hover in the 40s and low 50s, with frequent rain and the occasional dusting of snow. The trails stay open, but they can get muddy, and some facilities (like concession stands) may be closed or limited. If you don’t mind bundling up, it’s actually a peaceful time to spot wildlife or enjoy the stillness of the wetlands.

Personally, I think spring and fall are the sweet spots. You get cooler temperatures, fewer people, and just enough sun between the rainy days to make it feel like a hidden gem. Whether you’re after a quiet walk or a picnic without the crowds, the shoulder seasons are tough to beat—just bring layers and check the forecast before you go.

10 Best Insider Tips For Visiting The Park

Acquaint yourself with park rules and regulations, which can be found either online or at the park office. When walking on designated trails, stay within your speed limit in order to minimize impact and erosion

1. Launch early for calm waters. Stick to early hours for smoother SUP, kayaking, or paddle boarding. As a general rule of thumb, it gets rough after 11:00.
2. Try Sammamish Landing if you’re a swimmer. Because of the boat traffic, swimmers need to stay in designated areas in most of the park. If you want more freedom, head north to Sammamish Landing.
3. Watch Your Step… The park is full of geese so watch for poop. Also, watch for geese, they bite.
4. For The Best Fishing… Anchoring just off the mouth of Issaquah Creek is a great spot for perch, cutthroat, and chubs. Just stay 150ish yards out and cast toward shore.
5. You’ll See More Wildlife From The Water. If you’re hoping to see birds or the other wildlife that the park boasts, you’ll have better luck exploring in a kayak than via the walking trails. If you’re near the wetlands you may also get lucky and catch a glimpse of a resident beaver!
6. If You Want Solitude… Too bad. But seriously, the park is very popular all summer. However, your best chance at avoiding crowds is probably on the Issaquah Creek Trail instead of the main beach paths.

Whether I’m chasing my kids down a trail, paddling out early before the wind picks up, or just grabbing a quiet moment by the creek, Lake Sammamish State Park always feels like time well spent. It’s one of those places where you can do a little bit of everything—swim, hike, picnic, or just breathe for a bit—and it never feels too far from home.

If you’re looking for an easy escape from the city or a spot to make some memories with family and friends, this park is a solid bet. Between the water, the wildlife, and the space to roam, there’s something here for just about everyone.