Lake Chelan is roughly 50 miles long and 1,500’ deep (the third deepest lake in the United States!), meaning there is more than enough water to cool off during your visit to the Lake Chelan Valley!
It can get crowded out there, though, and some of the more popular swimming areas require careful planning if a beach day is on your trip itinerary.
What if we told you that there are more secluded areas that get you just as awesome waterfront real estate without all of the crowds??
Here are our go-to secret swimming spots in the Lake Chelan Valley.
Manson Bay Park
You gotta drop by Manson Bay Park, just a short walk from the Lodge. Throw down your picnic blanket and munch on those sandwiches with the awesome mountainous backdrop.
Ready for a splash?
The inviting waters of Lake Chelan are calling! Whether you’re a cannonball champ or a toe-dipper, there’s room for everyone. So, grab your sunscreen and your favorite floaties, and head on down to Manson Bay Park. It’s the ultimate family swimming spot in Downtown Manson!
Beebe Bridge Park
A short drive from downtown Chelan takes you to a spot where Lake Chelan and the Columbia River merge: Beebe Bridge Park. The park spans 52 acres and includes picnic shelters, playground equipment, and a lesser-known swimming area. It’s a perfect spot to spread out and cool down without navigating the big crowds.
Willow Point Park
While it’s become a popular weekend destination for those who know of it, Willow Point Park is still a relatively calm spot for weekday and evening swimming.
Located just outside of downtown Manson and tucked away into a residential neighborhood, there is plenty of real estate at Willow Point Park to spread out, and the swimming area is mere steps from the tree-covered lawn. Enjoy plenty of shade and gorgeous uplake views!
Lake Chelan State Park
Photo from Washington State Parks
Across the lake from The Lodge is a wonderfully shaded state park with ample space for swimming. Lake Chelan State Park features shared picnic tables, access to hiking trails, and a long, sandy beach.
While it’s a little more of a drive to get to (by Chelan standards, it’s only about 20 minutes from downtown), it’s enough to deter the crowds that are typical of the downtown swimming areas, meaning more space for you to enjoy a cool swim on a hot day!
Chelan Ranger District
Despite being smack dab in the middle of downtown Chelan, this swimming area is rarely crowded. Located just before the old bridge when driving into Chelan, the swimming area at the Chelan Ranger District is a great spot to dunk in, and there’s almost always parking available along the street.
Grab your floaties and some friends and enjoy basking in the sun at this tucked-away gem!
Boat-In Options
You can swim anywhere on Lake Chelan as long as you have a boat, and the exploration is spectacular! There are docks, places you can anchor, and plenty of sights to see all the way up to Stehekin.
Here are just a few awesome and secluded spots that you can easily boat into:
- Twenty-Mile Creek State Park – the end of the line for vehicles on the south shore of Lake Chelan! Here you can easily boat in and enjoy food, fuel, swimming, and hiking opportunities.
- Mitchell Creek Campground – a great place to get out and explore or have a picnic! It’s a very easy spot to travel to with little ones and even includes a dock for your boat. For those feeling brave, there’s a great diving rock just up from the campground — just remember to always practice safety first!
- Graham Harbor Creek – a day-use swimming area that’s just up lake from the Graham Harbor Creek Campground. This space features a large dock, picnic area with old fireplace, easy hike option, beautiful views, and, of course, swimming.
Conditions up-lake can change on a dime, so always come prepared with lifejackets and ample food and supplies.
Plan Your Pool Day at The Lodge
Don’t forget the most exclusive swimming spot of them all — the pool at Mountain View Lodge and Resort!
When you stay at The Lodge, you can access all our amenities, including the pool, hot tub, pool games and floaties, barbecue area, and lawn games. You don’t have to leave Manson to have a fantastic day in the water!
Book online or give us a call today to reserve your next vacation to the Lake Chelan Valley. We look forward to hosting you!