How do I access McGinnis Lake?

McGinnis Lake is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at McGinnis Lake?

McGinnis Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at McGinnis Lake?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit McGinnis Lake?

The best time to paddle at McGinnis Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at McGinnis Lake?

Water conditions at McGinnis Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is McGinnis Lake good for beginners?

Yes, McGinnis Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

A large body of water surrounded by mountains

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

McGinnis Lake

Elmer City, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

McGinnis Lake is a public boat ramp on McGinnis Lake near Elmer City, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into McGinnis Lake near Elmer City, Washington. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

McGinnis Lake is a public access point on McGinnis Lake in Washington, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Elmer City takes about 5 min, putting McGinnis Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make McGinnis Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access McGinnis Lake?: McGinnis Lake is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at McGinnis Lake?: McGinnis Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at McGinnis Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit McGinnis Lake?: The best time to paddle at McGinnis Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at McGinnis Lake?: Water conditions at McGinnis Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is McGinnis Lake good for beginners?: Yes, McGinnis Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.0357, -118.8993