Burke Lake
Burke Lake
- Boat Ramps
- 6
- Access Points
- 11
- Campsites
- 0
Burke Lake is a 69-acre lake located in the Quincy Wildlife Area near Quincy, Washington. Due to its agricultural setting, the lake is surrounded by flat terrain with sparse vegetation. The water quality is impacted by agricultural runoff, making swimming inadvisable.
Two boat ramps provide access to the water. While paddling is permitted, boaters should be confident in their skills as the lake offers little protection from wind due to the exposed landscape. The best seasons for paddling are spring and fall, as summer temperatures can reach 90°F and winter lows drop to 30°F.
The lake was rehabilitated in 2012 to restore its trout fishery after removing Brown Bullhead and Black Crappie. Current fish populations include rainbow trout, with yearlings averaging 12 inches and some holdovers reaching 14-20 inches. While fishing is possible from shore, boat access provides better opportunities to explore the lake.
Primitive camping is available at Burke Lake South, with several established pullouts along the access road. Facilities include pit toilets near the lake. A Discover Pass ($35/month) is required for access. The area connects to the larger Ancient Lakes trail system, offering additional recreational opportunities.
The surrounding region features unique geological formations, including canyons that can be explored via hiking trails branching out from the lake area. Due to the exposed terrain, there is essentially no shade around the lake, so visitors should plan accordingly with sun protection.
Note that while paddle boarding is allowed, participants should be skilled due to the often-windy conditions. AT&T cellular service is available in the area, though coverage from other carriers may vary.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Burke Lake. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
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