Top 5 Lakes in Kitsap County
Lakes in Kitsap County offer diverse natural settings and recreational opportunities. Located in Washington, the county features a variety of freshwater bodies, from large lakes suitable for boating to smaller, tranquil ponds. These areas provide public access for activities such as paddling, fishing, and nature walks. The landscape includes forests, wetlands, and developed park facilities alongside natural features.
Best lakes in Kitsap County
- The most popular lakes is Sakai Park and pond, an other natural area that is a tranquil, almost 23-acre nature preserve, featuring a pond and some small wetlands. It is also known for an 18-foot-tall troll sculpture made from recycled wood.
- Another must-see spot is John Nelson Park, a facilities highlight. This park was renamed in honor of John Nelson, who donated the land, and features a viewpoint, beach, and trails.
- Visitors also love Battle Point Park, a facilities area with two ponds, walking trails, and recreational facilities. It is a family-friendly location with green space and a playground.
- Kitsap County is known for its diverse lakes, including those with public access for fishing, paddling, and swimming, as well as natural preserves. The region offers a variety of lake environments to explore.
- The lakes in Kitsap County are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and 6 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
John Nelson Park
Highlight • Rest Area
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Sakai Park and pond
Highlight • Natural
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Battle Point Park
Highlight (Segment) • Rest Area
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Gazzam Lake Main Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Big Beef and Little Beef Harbors
Highlight (Segment) • River
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Tahuya Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Big Beef Harbor and Little Beef Harbor are two small, sheltered inlets tucked along the western shore of the Kitsap Peninsula, not far from Lawters Beach and the Seabeck area. These harbors open into Hood Canal and are mostly surrounded by private homes, docks, and dense evergreen forest. You will ride past both of these harbors on Seabeck Highway where you'll get nice views over the canal as well as the creeks and marshes that flow into each of the inlets.
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There is an 18-foot-tall troll made from recycled wood residing in the park: Pia the Peacekeeper, an installation by Copenhagen-based artist Thomas Dambo. Also two asphalt-surfaced tennis courts, with accessible parking.
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Previously known as Strawberry Plant Park, in 2013 this park was renamed in honor of John Nelson. Nelson — a local resident and shipyard worker — originally donated this tract of land in the 1950s in hopes it would become a park.
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Previously known as Strawberry Plant Park, in 2013 this park was renamed in honor of John Nelson. Nelson — a local resident and shipyard worker — originally donated this tract of land in the 1950s in hopes it would become a park.
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The main trails in Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve are well-signed and make for easy walking through the forest. The side trails tend to be narrower and brushier.
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Once a naval radio station, this 90-acre park is now home to two ponds, walking/jogging trails, an equestrian area, a picnic shelter and kids' playground, lots of green space, and recreational facilities for everything from tennis, soccer and basketball to (indoor) gymnastics meets.
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Previously known as Strawberry Plant Park, in 2013 this park was renamed in honor of John Nelson. Nelson — a local resident and shipyard worker — originally donated this tract of land in the 1950s in hopes it would become a park.
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This park is named after a Japanese family who cultivated berries here during their World War II internment. It's now a tranquil, almost 23-acre nature preserve, featuring a pond and even some small wetlands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Kitsap County are best for families?
Several lakes in Kitsap County offer excellent amenities for families. Battle Point Park features two ponds, walking trails, a picnic shelter, and a playground. Wildcat Lake County Park is known for its swimming area, playground, and picnic facilities. Buck Lake also has a park with a great playground for kids, making it a local favorite for family outings.
Where can I go for a peaceful paddle or kayak trip?
For a peaceful paddling experience, Island Lake in Poulsbo is an excellent choice, especially for kayaking and canoeing around its evergreen-clad island. Buck Lake also offers a quiet float, often uncrowded. Kitsap Lake is another great option for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding with calm waters.
Are there good fishing spots in Kitsap County's lakes?
Yes, Kitsap County has several excellent fishing lakes. Kitsap Lake is popular for year-round fishing, stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Wildcat Lake is thoroughly stocked with hatchery rainbow trout, especially in April and May. Long Lake is considered one of the best warm-water fisheries for largemouth bass and panfish, while Wye Lake is well-stocked with rainbow trout for spring and early fall fishing. Horseshoe Lake also has a decent population of largemouth bass.
Which lakes offer public access for swimming?
Wildcat Lake is known as Central Kitsap's 'swimming hole' and is a popular summer destination with a designated swimming area. Kitsap Lake also provides public access for swimming, along with boating and water skiing.
What unique natural features can I find around Kitsap County lakes?
You can find diverse natural features. Sakai Park and pond is a tranquil nature preserve with small wetlands and an 18-foot-tall troll sculpture. Tahuya Lake is notable for its unique flora community, a remnant of its past as an oligotrophic bog. Gazzam Lake Main Trail offers well-signed paths through a forest environment.
Are there any hidden gem lakes for a quiet escape?
Square Lake in South Kitsap is described as a 'hidden gem,' offering a peaceful escape for those seeking a quiet and scenic place to enjoy nature. Buck Lake also provides a peaceful and often uncrowded experience for a quiet float.
What kind of trails are available near the lakes?
Many lakes offer walking and hiking opportunities. Gazzam Lake Main Trail provides easy walking through the forest. Battle Point Park has walking/jogging trails. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the Sakai Loop or Battle Point Trail, which are considered easy hikes in the region.
Can I find viewpoints or scenic spots around the lakes?
Yes, John Nelson Park, located near a lake, features a viewpoint and a beach. The drive to Buck Lake through the Central Valley and Hansville Road is also considered scenic.
What other outdoor activities can I do near Kitsap County lakes?
Beyond lake-specific activities, the area around Kitsap County lakes offers various outdoor pursuits. You can find waterfall hikes like Dickerson Falls, or explore gravel biking routes, such as the Green Mountain State Forest loop near Wildcat Lake.
Which lake is the largest in Kitsap County?
Long Lake, located near Port Orchard, is the largest lake in Kitsap County, spanning close to two miles with a surface area of 320 acres.
Are there any lakes with historical significance?
Sakai Park and pond is named after a Japanese family who cultivated berries there during their World War II internment. John Nelson Park was renamed in honor of John Nelson, who donated the land in the 1950s.
What makes Horseshoe Lake unique?
Horseshoe Lake is aptly named for its shape and is known for its rock bottom and spring-fed waters, which ensure cleanliness and clarity year-round. It's also a good spot for largemouth bass fishing.
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