Salmon Creek Park - Vancouver, Washington - A Prime Swimming Location and Scenic Three Mile Trail

Salmon Creek Park features 35 acres of developed parkland and over 360 acres of undeveloped space. The park includes a popular swimming hole known as Klineline Pond. The swimming area boasts roped swimming areas, large observation platforms, a bathhouse, concession stands, and on-duty lifeguards throughout the summer months. The park is also known as the eastern trailhead of the Salmon Creek Trail and sits adjacent to the Salmon Creek Sports Association Complex which is home to Vancouver girls softball teams.

The park is open from 7 a.m. to dusk daily 365 days per year. The pond summer schedule differs and is contingent on weather forecasts. Lifeguards are on duty from late June to Labor Day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. unless it is raining. The spray ground water feature is also open daily unless the weather is poor and lightning or rain occurs. Dogs are not allowed in the Klineline Pond beach area or the park. This rule applies to the picnic areas as well as the playground facilities.

The park also features such amenities as covered picnic shelters and uncovered picnic areas. There is no power or water available and guests are encouraged to pack in their own water. Fishing is available in the pond and the trail provides a great venue for walking and biking. The Salmon Creek Trail is a ten foot wide paved service that extends from the park to 36th Avenue at Felida Bridge. The trail corridor is relatively flat except for the slope up to the end at 36th Avenue. It travels around wildlife areas, ponds and wetlands, duck nesting boxes, and lots of scenery. The trail runs for about three miles and provides a great area for joggers, hikers, bikers, and even equestrian use.

Driving directions from Interstate 5 is efficient and quick by exiting on exit 5, east onto 99th Street, North on Highway 99, and west onto 117th. Parking fees apply and it is best to check out the park website for further information. The trail can be accessed at the parking lot near the Vancouver Girls Softball fields off of Hazel Dell Avenue. Public restrooms are also located at this area.

Park and trail goers must abide by various rules and etiquette established by the Washington State Parks as guidelines in keeping the park and trails a safe environment. The trail hours are from dawn to dusk all year-round and pedestrians have the right away at all times on the paved trail. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the trail and the speed limit is just 15 miles per hour no matter what means of transportation. Trail goers are encouraged to pack out what they have brought in and not to disturb any plants or animals. To get information concerning holding an event at the park including weddings, family reunions, or corporate events guests are encouraged to call the Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation office.