Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Wanapum Dam (Upstream)
Wanapum Dam (Upstream) is a public boat ramp on Columbia River - Lake Wanapum near Beverly, 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
Wanapum Dam (Upstream) offers lake paddling on Columbia River - Lake Wanapum in Washington. Located near Beverly.
Lake paddlers in Washington will appreciate Wanapum Dam (Upstream), which offers direct access to Columbia River - Lake Wanapum and its surrounding waters.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Pacific Northwest delivers lush, green waterways with reliable rainfall keeping rivers and lakes full.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Wanapum Dam (Upstream) sits about 5 min from Beverly, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Wanapum Dam (Upstream) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
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 Wanapum Dam (Upstream)?
- Wanapum Dam (Upstream) is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Wanapum Dam (Upstream)?
- Wanapum Dam (Upstream) 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 Wanapum Dam (Upstream)?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Wanapum Dam (Upstream)?
- The best time to paddle at Wanapum Dam (Upstream) is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Wanapum Dam (Upstream)?
- Water conditions at Wanapum Dam (Upstream) include calm, sheltered.
- Is Wanapum Dam (Upstream) good for beginners?
- Yes, Wanapum Dam (Upstream) 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: 46.8830, -119.9566
Quick Facts
- State
- Washington
- Region
- Pacific Northwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Beverly
46.8830, -119.9566
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