Merrill Lake Campground

Hello, Washingtonians! Are you yearning for a truly peaceful escape into nature, a place where the gentle lapping of water and the rustle of leaves replace the everyday hustle and bustle? Look no further than Merrill Lake Campground, nestled in the scenic area of Ariel, Washington. This hidden gem offers a unique and serene camping experience, particularly for those who appreciate non-motorized water activities and a quiet connection with the outdoors. Despite recent challenges with main road access, the beauty and tranquility of Merrill Lake make it a truly rewarding destination.

Our aim with this detailed overview is to provide you, our local Washington residents, with all the essential information about Merrill Lake Campground. We understand that finding a campground that aligns with your specific preferences, especially for a quieter, more nature-focused trip, is crucial. This campground is celebrated for its direct "Access to the lake via trails," its suitability for "SUP boards," and its dedication to "catch and release" fishing. While it's important to note that the "main access road is still washed out," requiring alternative routes, the rewards of reaching this tranquil spot are significant. Prepare to discover why Merrill Lake Campground is an ideal choice for your next refreshing and serene Washington State adventure.

Merrill Lake Campground is located at Ariel, WA 98603, USA, within the beautiful natural landscape of Southwest Washington. This area is nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, with the impressive presence of Mount St. Helens nearby. For residents across Washington State, accessing Merrill Lake typically involves a scenic drive through forested areas:

• From Seattle: The drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours south.
• From Portland, Oregon: Expect a shorter drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours north.
• From Vancouver, Washington: It's a convenient drive of roughly 1 hour northeast.

An important note regarding accessibility, as highlighted by a recent review, is that "The main access road is still washed out." This means visitors must be prepared for alternative routes, which may involve longer or less maintained forest service roads. It is crucial to check current road conditions with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or local authorities before planning your trip to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Despite this, the campground itself is accessible, typically offering "10 spots" for campers. Merrill Lake is part of the Merrill Lake Natural Resources Conservation Area, managed by the DNR, which ensures its protection and provides designated public access points.

Its location offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, while still being within a reasonable driving distance for many Washington residents. This makes it an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation where disconnecting from urban life is the primary goal.

Merrill Lake Campground provides essential services designed to facilitate a focused, quiet, and engaging outdoor experience, particularly centered around the lake itself. Given its emphasis on non-motorized recreation and a more natural setting, the amenities are geared towards functionality and environmental preservation:

• Designated Campsites: The campground features 10 designated campsites, offering a focused and intimate camping experience. These sites are available on a "first come first served" basis, meaning no reservations are taken.
• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with "vaulted toilet" facilities, providing basic, non-flush restrooms. These are maintained for cleanliness, aligning with a rustic camping experience.
• Lake Access: Direct "Access to the lake via trails" is a key service, allowing campers to easily reach the water for various activities.
• Daytime Boat Launch: A dedicated "daytime boat launch" is available, specifically designed for "non-motorized" boats such as kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUP boards). This ensures convenient access for paddle craft.
• Fishing Opportunities: Merrill Lake is a "catch and release" fishing lake, primarily for fly fishing. This management strategy helps maintain the fish population and offers a unique angling experience.
• Picnic Tables: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews for this specific campground, it is highly common for DNR campgrounds to provide picnic tables at each campsite for convenience in food preparation and dining.
• Fire Rings: Similarly, fire rings or pits are standard amenities in most designated campsites, allowing for campfires (contingent on current fire bans) and outdoor cooking.
• Parking: Designated parking areas are available for campers, including the main parking area from which some sites may be walk-in. Discover Pass is required for vehicles.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed on leash, making it a suitable destination for those who wish to bring their furry companions on their camping trip.

Visitors should be prepared for a more primitive camping experience compared to full-hookup RV parks, focusing on the natural environment and self-sufficiency for their power and extensive water needs.

Merrill Lake Campground distinguishes itself with several unique features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for a specific type of outdoor enthusiast in Washington State:

• Non-Motorized Lake Experience: The paramount feature is Merrill Lake itself, which is strictly for "non-motorized" boats. This policy ensures a tranquil and quiet lake environment, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and especially "SUP boards." This creates a serene atmosphere, free from the noise and wakes of powerboats.
• Catch and Release Fly Fishing: For anglers, Merrill Lake offers a dedicated "catch and release" fly-fishing experience. This promotes sustainable fishing practices and provides a unique challenge for those passionate about the sport.
• Intimate Campground Size: With only "10 spots," the campground provides a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger, busier parks. This fosters a sense of privacy and peace, allowing campers to truly connect with nature.
• Beautiful Lake Conditions: Reviewers note that "sometimes the lake was like glass!" offering periods of pristine, calm water perfect for paddling and enjoying reflections of the surrounding forest.
• Diverse Shoreline: The lake features varied "beaches" – some "sandy," others with "small rocks," adding to the natural diversity and offering different spots for relaxation by the water.
• Small Island Exploration: The presence of a "small island which is fun to row over to" adds an adventurous element, perfect for a short paddle and exploration.
• Resilient Natural Beauty: Despite the "main access road is still washed out" and "Nature is slowly taking back this place," the reviews suggest that the inherent beauty of the location remains, offering a unique perspective on natural regeneration.
• Vault Toilet Convenience: While basic, the provision of "vaulted toilet" facilities is a key amenity for a rustic campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met.
• Wind Patterns: An interesting highlight is the predictable wind pattern; the wind "does seem to pick up several times throughout the day," but then "it would calm down again" after about "a half hour." This allows campers to plan their activities around these calm periods.

For more information, current conditions, or specific inquiries regarding Merrill Lake Campground, please use the following contact details. As this is a Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) managed campground, information is typically handled through their regional office:

Address: Ariel, WA 98603, USA

Phone: (360) 577-2025

Mobile Phone: +1 360-577-2025

These phone numbers are likely for the DNR's Pacific Cascade Region, which oversees Merrill Lake. It is highly recommended to call this number or check the official Washington DNR recreation website for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning:

• Current status of the "main access road" and any alternative routes.
• Fire restrictions or burn bans, which are common in Washington's forests.
• Operational season dates, as some campgrounds are seasonal.
• Any specific regulations regarding camping, boating, or fishing.

As sites are "first come first served," direct communication with the DNR can provide valuable insights on typical occupancy levels or the best times to visit to secure a spot.

Merrill Lake Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Washington State who prioritize a tranquil, nature-focused, and non-motorized outdoor experience. For Washingtonians, its allure lies in its peaceful ambiance and its dedication to a specific type of recreation, making it ideal for those who seek to truly disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Cascades foothills.

Despite the current challenge of the "main access road still washed out," the effort to reach this secluded spot is greatly rewarded. The campground's small size, with only 10 spots, ensures a less crowded environment, allowing for genuine serenity and a closer connection with nature. The emphasis on "non-motorized" boating, perfect for "SUP boards," kayaks, and canoes, creates a calm lake surface that encourages peaceful paddling and undisturbed enjoyment of the scenery.

For anglers, the "catch and release" fly fishing offers a rewarding challenge, aligning with conservation-minded values. The natural features, from sandy and rocky beaches to the charming small island, provide diverse areas for exploration and relaxation. While the wind can pick up, its predictable half-hour duration means periods of "like glass" water are frequent, enhancing the overall experience. Merrill Lake Campground offers a unique opportunity for Washington residents to experience a raw, yet welcoming, slice of their state's natural beauty, proving that some of the best experiences are found where nature is "slowly taking back this place."

Merrill Lake Campground

Ariel, WA 98603, USA