Lake Kachess Boat Launch — Hotel in Cle Elum

Caution! Don't try to put your boat in when the water levels are low. September 12th 2024 the lake was 31% full and down 40 ft from its highest level. I could not get any info from anyone on the internet about if it was safe to put a boat in or not. I drove there and the entry shack attendant said some people are doing it but it is at your own risk. I would advise anyone to try only if it is a small boat that they could almost hand launch (500 lbs.ish) I went down near the water and promptly got stuck with my four-wheel drive F-150. The super nice local tow truck guy said I was his fourth one this week. A park guard told me I was number 322 for the year to get stuck and need a tow truck. The lake is beautiful and worthy of five stars. I am giving one star because there was no information and nobody told me what my odds were of getting stuck trying to bring my boat down to the water. I'll come back when the water is close to 100% or maybe down...

We camped here years ago and have very fond memories. This year we hiked the Kachess lake trail. It's not a sidewalk, meaning, bring shoes with ankle support, maybe even a trekking pole. The camp ground is now run by civilian company, and the price to park was $8. That may seem odd that I bring up a parking fee, but we waited in line, in the car, for quite some time as the little booth took care business for each car that rolled up to the window. It was the weekend, and this place is apparently very popular. We enjoyed the hike, mostly because of the spectacular scenery. The bridge on the trail has been washed out, you can brave the water, or hike upstream a ways, and cross a...

Beautiful, pristine water, not close to town and lots of wildlife. If you're looking for a place to get away and focus on paddle boarding, swimming, family, nature far away from the city, this is your place! Bring cash NO cards, take showers at Lake Easton state park, Book in Box canyon down by the boat launch and don't forget the bug spray. This place is 15 miles from anything city, and it's amazing!! Plan ahead so you're not missing anything and don't leave the freeway with low fuel, it could be a dicey ride to the next gas...