Anderson Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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William Anderson owned the land of Anderson Lake State Park from 1947 until it became a state park in 1969. Interestingly, this lake in Washington's Puget Sound is not named for either him or any of his ancestors. He bought it from a woman named Amanda Anderson, also no relation, and the Anderson for which the lake is named was one of her ancestors! As of October 18, 2023, there is a toxic algae warning for the water of Anderson Lake, which prohibits all water-based activities. Because the lake's water monitoring is suspended for the season, the lake will be off-limits until at least April 2024. Check with the Washington State Department of Ecology for updates beginning in April 2024.
Spring 52-68 F
Summer 68-73 F
Fall 50-68 F
Winter 37-52 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Anderson Lake State Park
There are no camping facilities at Anderson Lake State Park.
What to Do at
Anderson Lake State Park
If you enjoy riding horses, you can do so with your family at Anderson Lake State Park. You'll find 5 miles of equestrian trails and hitching posts for that activity. You can fish, boat, and swim when the water is safe and free of algae. If you like to hike, you will undoubtedly enjoy the trails lined by abundant wildflowers in spring.
Hiking
The trails are all flat and easy. Some of them are for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Others are closed to horses. In all, there are 10 trails that meander through the park, and you can find maps on the website.
Flora and Fauna
The park is famous for its edible berries, including salmonberries, strawberries, and huckleberries. Be sure to bring a field guide so that you know which berries are safe. Wildflowers include water parsnips and rock roses. The wildlife consists mostly of birds that including Canadian geese, swallows, flycatchers, and even the occasional osprey.
Fishing
Two-pole fishing is allowed at Anderson Lake State Park. Usually, you can catch largemouth bass and rainbow trout. Remember to check the water safety before fishing. Every year, from April 1 until September 30, you can keep your fish up to the set limit. At all other times of the year, you must catch and release.
Swimming
There is no formal beach or lifeguards, but you can swim at Anderson Lake State Park when the water is safe. Remember never to swim alone or to push yourself past your limits.
Boating
At times when there are no toxic algae, nonmotorized boats are allowed, and there is a boat ramp. You can also paddle out from the shore in a canoe, kayak, or rowboat.
Geocaching
There is a single geocache in Anderson Lake State Park. Here's a hint: It's painted black.
How to Get to
Anderson Lake State Park
Anderson Lake State Park is relatively remote. From Seattle, take the ferry from Fauntleroy to Southworth. Follow Route 160 and Route 16 west to Route 3. Take Route 3 north. Cross the floating bridge on Route 104. Take Route 19 north to Anderson Lake Road, onto which you will turn west.
Entering Anderson Lake State Park
There is a flat area outside the park where you can leave your vehicle. You can enter the park on foot, bike, or horseback. The park is open from 8 a.m. until dusk. There is a parking lot inside the park if you decide to enter in your vehicle. You'll also find parking appropriate for a horse trailer.
Discover Pass (single day) : $11.5
Discover Pass (annual) : $35.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Anderson Lake State Park
Most activities are at their best during the late spring and early summer at Anderson Lake State Park. The park is not staffed after Labor Day, but people can still use the trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing during the winter.
Most of the notable wildlife is waterfowl and songbirds, which either live in the park or migrate through it. Many species that are endemic to Canada fly through the area, including harlequin ducks, red-throated loons, and surf scoters.
No, there are no camping facilities of any kind at Anderson Lake State Park.
Anderson Lake State Park is a day-use only park, so no camping is allowed at any time.
Yes, pets are allowed. When outside your vehicle, your pets must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet, and you must clean up after them. Also, if there is a toxic algae warning in effect, keep your pets and mounts well away from the water. The cyanobacteria can be fatal to both household pets and horses.