Boat Launches (21)
Kayaking (6)
Lake Sacajawea (Longview)
Lake Sacajawea offers a unique urban kayaking experience in the heart of Longview, making it an ideal spot for beginners and casual paddlers. This non-motorized lake features calm, protected waters that are perfect for short, scenic paddles and relaxed wildlife viewing. Kayak access is available through hand-launch areas along the shoreline, allowing for easy entry without the need for a formal boat ramp.
Designed primarily for passive recreation, Lake Sacajawea is best enjoyed during quieter times of day, with paddlers encouraged to steer clear of high-use pedestrian areas and special events. Life jackets are required, and the peaceful setting makes this lake a welcoming introduction to kayaking in Cowlitz County while adding convenient, in-town access to the region’s diverse water recreation opportunities.
Urban Paddling Highlight
Kayak Access
- Hand-launch access from shoreline areas
- Non-motorized watercraft only (no formal boat ramp)
Why It’s Great
- Flat, protected water ideal for beginners
- Centrally located in Longview
- Perfect for short, scenic paddles and wildlife viewing
Important Notes
- Designed primarily for passive recreation
- Paddlers should avoid high-use pedestrian areas and special events
- Life jackets are required
Lake Sacajawea offers a unique urban paddling experience, adding variety and accessibility to Cowlitz County’s water recreation options.
• Waterbody: Lake Sacajawea
• Facilities: Picnic areas, parking
• Boat Types: Kayak, canoe, paddleboard
• Notes: Hand-carry only; no boat ramp.
• Waterbody: Lewis River
• Facilities: Parking
• Boat Types: Small craft, kayak
• Notes: Angled river access; good for fishing and casual boating.
• Waterbody: Merrill Lake
• Facilities: Forest access, camping, parking
• Boat Types: Non-motor craft
• Notes: Small lake; ideal for quiet paddling and camping trips.
• Waterbody: Columbia River
• Facilities: Restrooms, parking, docks
• Boat Types: Motor, non-motor, kayak
• Notes: Full marina with boat launch and guest moorage.
• Waterbody: Silver Lake
• Facilities: Parking, picnic areas, restrooms
• Boat Types: Small craft, kayak, paddleboard
• Notes: Shoreline launch within park; great for family day trips.
Silver Lake (Seaquest State Park)
Silver Lake at Seaquest State Park offers a calm and welcoming paddling experience set against a forested state park backdrop. With easy access points and consistently smooth water, it’s an excellent choice for beginners, families, and those looking for a relaxed paddle with great opportunities for nature viewing.
Kayak Access
Developed boat launch
Easy shoreline access
Why It’s Great
Convenient state park amenities nearby
Calm water ideal for beginners and families
Excellent for relaxed paddling and nature viewing
• Waterbody: Silver Lake
• Facilities: Parking, boarding float
• Boat Types: Motor, non-motor, kayak
• Notes: Concrete ramp ideal for recreational boating and fishing.
• Waterbody: Lewis River
• Facilities: Parking, vault toilets, picnic area
• Boat Types: Small craft, non-motorized, kayak, canoe
• Notes: Convenient river access; suitable for beginners and families.
• Waterbody: Lewis River
• Facilities: Private campground access, parking
• Boat Types: Small craft, kayak
• Notes: Limited public access; ideal for local boating.
• Waterbody: Kalama River
• Facilities: Parking
• Boat Types: Small boat, kayak
• Notes: River access and boat launch for fishing or small craft.