Explore Vancouver Lake

Vancouver Lake is special – let’s protect it!

Formed in 2017, the Friends of Vancouver Lake’s mission is preserving and enhancing the environmental and recreational qualities of Vancouver Lake. The Friends are working to build and strengthen this community’s commitment to our Lake by gathering allies and raising money to support development of a lake management plan and improved water quality.

It is clear that Vancouver Lake represents a unique community asset with unlimited possibilities for improved recreational access, economic development, and water quality improvements. As long as we take care of it, the lake has much to offer. Learn more about the Friends of Vancouver Lake here!

Friends of Vancouver Lake Accomplishments

Helped bring together local & State governments & agencies, & concerned citizens from across Clark County to care for our Lake now & into the future!

Created a coalition to successfully tackle the Milfoil mess at Vancouver Lake, which if left untreated, would have turned our Lake into a swamp.

Actively creating plans for economic development & ecological protection. We can successfully manage Vancouver Lake for the benefit of our citizens!

History of Vancouver Lake

Vancouver Lake has always captured the imagination of the people of Clark County. It is believed to have been part of the old course of the Columbia River and lies northwest of the City of Vancouver. The lake is large at approximately 2,600 acres and shallow with eight miles of shoreline.

Historically, the lake was connected to the Columbia River and degradation of water quality began shortly after flood control structures for the Columbia River were constructed, which severed the connection. In 1983 that connection was mimicked by a constructed “flushing channel” built on the lake’s west side to bring cooler, cleaner Columbia River water into the lake. Learn more here!

Vancouver Lake is special – let’s protect it!

Friends of Vancouver Lake Accomplishments

History of Vancouver Lake

Learn More on our Blog!

Columbian: Group culls carp to clear Vancouver Lake’s water

Milfoil Threat

Carp in Vancouver Lake & Columbia River