The Top 11 Lakes in Thurston County
Looking to visit the best lakes in Thurston County? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Thurston County’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: November 28, 2025
Ellis Cove Nature Trail
Highlight • Trail
Ellis Creek widens to a small bay called Ellis Cove before joining Budd Inlet, around which the city of Olympia was settled.
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Millersylvania State Park — Lake and Forest Trails
Highlight • Trail
Millersylvania State Park has something for everyone - swimming beaches, kayak rentals, hiking trails, camping and glamping facilities, and two concession stands open all summer.
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Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area
Highlight • Natural Monument
Woodard Bay Conservation Area spans 870 acres and protects and provides habitat for harbor seals, bald eagles, a large colony of bats, and one of the largest heron nesting areas …
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Lakefront Boats and Bites
Highlight • Lake
A seasonal concession stand sells food and drinks in addition to renting out non-motorized boats for use on Deep Lake. A fun way to end the day! For hours and info, check: lakefrontboatsandbites.com
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Henderson Inlet and Bat Nursery
Highlight • Viewpoint
This viewpoint offers a fantastic view of Henderson Inlet. Here, you can view an old abandoned pier, home to hundreds of little brown and Yuma myotis bats, one of the …
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Beaver Pond at McLane Creek
Highlight • Lake
The Beaver Pond at McLane Creek is home to a diverse community of wildlife. Newts, waterfowl, and spawning salmon can be observed from the boardwalks.
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Black Lake
Highlight • Lake
This large lake is relatively close to the city and a popular outdoor recreation spot, accessible at Kennydell Park or the boat launch on Fairview Road. It's a local favorite …
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Long Lake Park
Highlight • Beach
Long Lake Park, with its beautiful evergreen entrance, opens up to 285 feet of sandy shoreline and is one of the best swimming beaches in the area. There are volleyball …
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Johnson Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
This spot offers a gorgeous view of Puget Sound with Mount Rainier in the distance. This area is home to plenty of wildlife, beautiful waterfront homes, and is a peaceful spot to watch ships go by.
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Smith Lake Bench Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Short off-trail spot with 2 levels of benches to view the kettle pond, now with mass lillies covering most of it.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Thurston County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
King CountyCascade RangeMt. Baker-Snoqualmie National ForestOlympic MountainsOkanogan-Wenatchee National ForestClallam CountyChelan CountyLewis CountyGifford Pinchot National ForestPierce CountyWhatcom CountySkagit CountyKittitas CountySnohomish CountyYakima CountyClark CountySpokane CountyJefferson CountyOkanogan CountySan Juan CountySkamania CountyIsland CountyGrant CountyKitsap CountyColville National Forest
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