Curlew Lake Boat Launch
location_onFerry, WA
About Curlew Lake Boat Launch
Curlew Lake: A Serene Paddling Oasis in Northeast Washington's Wilderness
Nestled in the heart of northeastern Washington, Curlew Lake stands as a beloved destination for kayakers seeking a tranquil and picturesque paddling experience. As a reservoir situated in Ferry County, approximately 30 miles north of the town of Colville, this stunning waterbody offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Kayaking in Northeast Washington
Gear up for Curlew Lake Boat Launch
Recommended paddling gear matched to the conditions at this spot. Every item ships from Amazon.
Perfect for flat lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Great starter gear for beginners.
Recreational Sit-On-Top Kayak
Kayak
Stable, easy to get in and out, self-draining — ideal for calm water paddling.
Adjustable Kayak Paddle
Paddle
Lightweight aluminum or fiberglass. Adjustable length fits different kayak widths.
USCG-Approved PFD
Life Vest
Legally required in most states. Get one designed for paddling — allows full arm movement.
Dry Bag (20L)
Storage
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry. 20L fits a half-day's worth of gear.
Kayak Anchor Kit
Anchor
Essential for fishing or photography — holds position in wind and light current.
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reviewsWhat Paddlers Say
“Camped at this park for the second time over the past 3 years. It is in a great location (away from population centers), very well maintained, and staffed with helpful and enthusiastic personnel. Setup camp in the "random" camp sites, where water is available but no electrical hookups. Requires a short walk to the comfort center which was very clean and provided very hot showers. A really nice facility. I must add that this campground is a very open facility, meaning there are no physical barriers (e.g., trees or shrubs) between campers. That is the only reason that I gave it four stars rather than five.”
“This is a great park. We visited in early October - the sweet spot between summer (we've heard there are too many boats and kids), and hunting season. The lake was quiet, the fall colors were great, and the park staff were really nice. While here for 5 nights, we visited Republic (fossil digging was surprisingly fun) and the brewery was excellent. We also rode the section of bike trail from Curlew (town) to the border (20 miles round trip, all flat). Hiking options too, but we didn't hike this time.”
“Have enjoyed kayaking on this lake, there's a couple camping areas which allow you to choose if you want to be plugged in and camp on well maintained lawns or in a more rustic area in tents or small campers. I've camped both and enjoyed my time. Cell service is spotty which is great to me but keep that in mind. The campground hosts and Park Rangers are very nice.”
From Google reviews. Showing the most detailed recent visitor notes.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere can I launch my kayak at Curlew Lake?
The Curlew Lake Boat Launch, which is a free public access point, provides a boat ramp for launching kayaks and other small watercraft.
help_outlineWhat skill level is Curlew Lake good for?
Curlew Lake is considered a calm waterbody, making it suitable for kayakers of all skill levels, including beginners.
help_outlineWhat gear should I bring for kayaking Curlew Lake?
Essential gear for kayaking Curlew Lake includes a life jacket, paddle, and any other standard kayaking equipment. Fishing gear may also be useful if you plan to fish during your trip.
help_outlineCan I fish from my kayak on Curlew Lake?
Yes, you can fish from your kayak on Curlew Lake, but a valid fishing license is required, as per the standard state regulations.
help_outlineWhen is the best time of year to kayak Curlew Lake?
The best season for kayaking Curlew Lake is spring through fall, as the weather and water conditions are generally more favorable during these times of the year.
help_outlineIs Curlew Lake family-friendly for kayaking?
Yes, Curlew Lake is considered family-friendly for kayaking, as the calm waters and free public access make it a suitable destination for paddlers of all ages and abilities.
help_outlineAre there any motorboats on Curlew Lake?
Curlew Lake does have a boat ramp, so there may be some motorboat traffic on the water, but the calm nature of the reservoir makes it generally suitable for sharing with other types of watercraft.
Location
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Hero photo: Photo by Kevmin / CC BY-SA 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons)