How do I access Wanapum Recreation Area?

Wanapum Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Wanapum Recreation Area?

Wanapum Recreation Area 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 Recreation Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Wanapum Recreation Area?

The best time to paddle at Wanapum Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Wanapum Recreation Area?

Water conditions at Wanapum Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Wanapum Recreation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Wanapum Recreation Area 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.

Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Wanapum Recreation Area

Beverly, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Wanapum Recreation Area 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Wanapum Recreation Area offers lake paddling on Columbia River - Lake Wanapum in Washington. Located near Beverly.

Lake paddlers in Washington will appreciate Wanapum Recreation Area, which offers direct access to Columbia River - Lake Wanapum and its surrounding waters.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Beverly, Wanapum Recreation Area is a convenient option for Beverly-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Wanapum Recreation Area 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 Wanapum Recreation Area?: Wanapum Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Wanapum Recreation Area?: Wanapum Recreation Area 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 Recreation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Wanapum Recreation Area?: The best time to paddle at Wanapum Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Wanapum Recreation Area?: Water conditions at Wanapum Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Wanapum Recreation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Wanapum Recreation Area 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: 46.9055, -119.9880