Pacific Power to reopen most fishing, day use sites on Lewis River

Following Washington state COVID-19 guidelines, the sites will allow outdoor recreation while observing social distancing rules

Beginning Tue., May 5, Pacific Power will reopen most day-use recreation areas along its Lewis River reservoirs east of Woodland, in alignment with Gov. Jay Inslee’s update to the stay-at-home order in Washington state. 

During the COVID-19 emergency, outlets for appropriately distanced recreation are important, so long as it can be done within state and federal health directives. Photo by Mike Schultz
During the COVID-19 emergency, outlets for appropriately distanced recreation are important, so long as it can be done within state and federal health directives. Photo by Mike Schultz

Visitors will be able to access boat ramps and day-use areas, but COVID-19 social distances measures will remain in force. Restroom maintenance and personal hygiene supplies may be limited. Some park features such as playground equipment will be closed.

Campgrounds will remain closed until further notice. A previously announced waiver of cancellation fees has been extended.

Pacific Power is a division of PacifiCorp, which owns and manages hydroelectric resources that offer clean, affordable energy for customers, as well as a variety of public recreation opportunities. The facilities provide boating, swimming, camping and picnicking opportunities.

During the COVID-19 emergency, outlets for appropriately distanced recreation are important, so long as it can be done within state and federal health directives. Pacific Power officials appreciate patience from the public as they work to maintain these opportunities while observing guidelines pertaining to social distancing and safety.

Specifically, on the Lewis River, the following sites will be open May 5 with limited maintenance. Social distancing requirements will be in place:

  • Merwin Park
  • Saddle Dam Equestrian Parking
  • Merwin Hatchery Boat Ramp
  • Lewis River Hatchery
  • Cedar Creek Ramp Access
  • Johnson Creek Access
  • Speelyai Park
  • Yale Park
  • Eagle Cliff Park
  • Beaver Bay Park (Day Use Only)
  • Swift Forest Camp (Day Use Only, weekends only)

Pacific Power takes pride in operating recreation sites. During the COVID-19 health emergency, officials want to allow some outlets for recreation so long as it can be done within recently issued state guidelines. They appreciate patience as we work to maintain these opportunities while observing guidelines pertaining to social distancing and safety.

For a complete list of recreation site closures and limited or reduced services, including PacifiCorp facilities in Oregon, Washington, and California, visit https://www.pacificorp.com/community/recreation.html.