The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Lacamas Regional Park

The Round Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding around the serene waters of Round Lake. You'll traverse a variety of surfaces, from paved sections to gravel paths and boardwalks, all while enjoying lush evergreen forests and views of the historic Round Lakes Upper Dam and the unique Camas Potholes. This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike, with only 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.

This trail is a fantastic option for families, dog walkers, and runners, offering amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds nearby. It's enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall bring particularly beautiful colors to the landscape. Remember to keep your dog on a leash, as it's a popular spot for wildlife viewing.

Part of the broader Lake to Lake Trail system, this loop showcases diverse scenery, from tranquil lake views to sections alongside rapid rivers. The historic Round Lake Upper Dam, originally built in 1883, adds a touch of local history to your walk. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and consider bringing a fishing rod, as the area is popular for angling.

The Round Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding around the tranquil waters of Round Lake and through verdant forests. You'll experience a mix of serene lake views and the sounds of rapid rivers, making for a varied and engaging walk. This easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike involves a gentle 352 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing.

When planning your visit, head to Lacamas Regional Park in Camas, Washington. The trail is generally accessible, and the area around the Lacamas and Round Lakes Upper Dam is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, it's always wise to arrive early, especially on pleasant days, to ensure a smooth start to your hike.

One of the unique features of this route is the historic Lacamas and Round Lakes Upper Dam, originally built in 1883 to serve a paper mill. Today, it stands as a testament to the area's industrial past and provides a scenic backdrop for recreation. The trail's blend of natural beauty and historical context makes it a notable option among the Round Lake Loop Trail popular routes in the region.

The Lacamas Park Trails Loop offers a refreshing escape into a "miniature wilderness" right in Camas, Washington. This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike, with a gentle 249 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through mossy forests, past the scenic Round Lake, and along Lacamas Creek to multiple waterfalls like Lower Falls and Pothole Falls. In spring, the camas lily meadows explode with vibrant purple and blue, creating a truly memorable experience that takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead. While the trail is popular, especially for family-friendly hikes, the park's extensive network allows for varied routes. For the best experience, consider visiting in spring to witness the spectacular camas lily bloom, or after rainfall to see the waterfalls at their most impressive. The park is generally accessible year-round, offering a convenient outdoor option.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Lacamas Park Trails Loop is notable for its historical significance, crossing an old dam that formed Round Lake, originally built to support a local paper mill. The park's diverse native plants and opportunities for wildlife viewing add to its appeal, making it a beloved local gem that feels far removed from urban development despite its proximity.

The Fallen Leaf Lake Park loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick nature fix. This 1.8-mile (3.0 km) route, with a minimal 178 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 49 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing. You'll stroll along informal dirt paths through mature deciduous and evergreen trees, enjoying serene views of the 15-acre Fallen Leaf Lake, a haven for various birds and wildlife.

Accessing the park is simple, and it's a great spot for a spontaneous walk or a family picnic. While there's no mention of permits or fees, it's always a good idea to check local park information before heading out. The park is generally accessible year-round, but visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Fallen Leaf Lake Park is a valued natural habitat within the larger Lacamas Corridor, known for its interconnected lakes and wetlands. The City of Camas is actively working on a master plan to develop a more comprehensive and accessible trail system around the lake, promising even better experiences in the future. Beyond hiking, the park provides opportunities for non-motorized water activities on the lake and features open grassy areas for relaxation.