Clear Lake Beach

Description

When you’re looking for a clean, family-friendly beach spot in Skagit County, Clear Lake Beach in Mount Vernon quickly stands out. Tucked on S Front Street, not far from the main road but just secluded enough to feel like a peaceful escape, this lakefront park offers the perfect blend of nature, recreation, and convenience.

What makes Clear Lake Beach unique is how it balances local charm with thoughtful amenities. The shoreline is gentle and sandy, ideal for wading or dipping your toes in on a warm day. There’s just enough aquatic activity—think paddleboards and kayaks gliding by—but somehow it never feels chaotic. For me, the best part is how easy it is to spend the whole day here. I’ve come with friends for laid-back picnics, and I’ve brought my family for hours of playground fun. Even if you’re just passing through the Skagit Valley, you’ll appreciate how accessible and welcoming this park feels.

The dock quickly becomes a favorite hangout for kids and anyone looking to launch a small boat or try fishing. Surrounded by lush greenery, you get sweeping lakeside views but also ample shade on hot afternoons. Friendly locals come for quick swims and impromptu gatherings, yet there’s always space to spread out.

You don’t need to pack a lot—most essentials are covered. There are reliable restrooms, accessible paths, and plenty of space for your group whether you’re grilling, relaxing, or letting the kids roam. Even dogs are welcome, a detail that’s much appreciated for families with four-legged members.

Key Features

• Dock Access: A sturdy, well-maintained dock extends into the lake—great for fishing, launching a kayak, or catching sunset views.
• Clean, Sandy Beach: The soft beach area is perfect for swimming or building sandcastles. The water quality here consistently impresses.
• Playground: Kids love the updated playground, which is safely set back from the water but close enough for parents to keep watch.
• Picnic Tables & Grills: Scattered picnic tables and public grills mean you can settle in for lunch or a sunset dinner by the water.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Both the entrance and parking area are accessible for wheelchairs, providing pathways that make it easy for everyone to enjoy the beach and park.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are regularly maintained and conveniently located—not always a given at smaller beaches.
• Dog Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park, so everyone can join in the fun.
• On-Site Parking: You’ll appreciate the ample on-site parking, just steps from the main park area.

Best Time to Visit

Clear Lake Beach is open year-round, but the local atmosphere changes with the seasons. For the classic beach experience—sunbathing, swimming, grilling—aim for late June through early September. That’s when the water is warm enough for swimming, the days are longest, and all amenities (including the restroom facilities) are fully open.

I’ve found that weekday mornings during summer are the most peaceful; locals trickle in slowly with coffee and paddleboards, and the water is usually at its clearest. Weekends tend to attract families, especially in July and August, but it rarely feels overcrowded thanks to the spacious layout. If you’re more interested in quiet walks, lakeside birdwatching, or an outdoor lunch, early fall (September into October) brings cooler weather, bold foliage, and fewer crowds—plus, the views across the lake become especially striking under soft autumn light.

Winter visits reward you with tranquil views and near solitude. While swimming and playground visits are less appealing, I still like to stop by for a brisk lakeside walk or to let the dogs run around the open spaces. Just check that amenities, especially restrooms, are open if you visit off-season.

How to Get There

Getting to Clear Lake Beach is straightforward, whether you’re local or coming from out of town. The beach sits at 12925 S Front St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, only about 8 miles east of downtown Mount Vernon and an easy drive from Interstate 5.

• By Car: From I-5, take exit 225 toward Anderson Road, then follow WA-9 N to the tiny town of Clear Lake. The entrance to Clear Lake Beach is clearly marked on South Front Street. There’s plenty of free parking on-site, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot even on busy days.
• By Bike: For those looking to add a bit of exercise to their day, the main access roads to Clear Lake Beach are bike-friendly, weaving through pretty stretches of farmland and woodlands. Just be aware there aren’t dedicated bike lanes along every stretch, so plan your route accordingly.
• By Public Transport: Bus options in rural Skagit County are limited, and service to Clear Lake is infrequent. If you’re relying on public transportation, check schedules in advance or arrange for a ride-share from Mount Vernon.

Once you arrive, the entire park is easy to navigate. Paved paths connect the parking lot with the main beach area, picnic spots, and the playground, making stroller or wheelchair access straightforward.

Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early on hot days: On the sunniest weekends, locals arrive early to claim the best picnic spots and tables. If you want a shady area or a grill, plan to get there by mid-morning.
• Keep the beach clean: Visitors and locals alike take pride in how well-maintained Clear Lake Beach remains. There are plenty of trash bins—help keep the sand and grassy areas spotless for everyone.
• Bring your own water toys: There aren’t rentals onsite, so if you plan to kayak, paddleboard, or let kids play in the water, bring your own equipment and plenty of towels.
• Check for swimming advisories: The water is usually clear and safe, but always check local notices for occasional advisories, especially after heavy rain.
• Plan for limited shade: While there are trees dotting the park, some parts of the beach get full sun all day. I always pack a pop-up tent or generous hats in the summer.
• Dogs are welcome but must be leashed: This is a dog-friendly park, but make sure your dog stays leashed at all times. Clean up after your pet to help keep facilities pristine.
• Restrooms open seasonally: The public restrooms are well kept, but during the winter or very early mornings, they may not be open. Plan for your needs accordingly.
• Enjoy the playground and dock: The playground is safe, with new equipment, and the dock is a favorite for families looking to fish or try a jumping contest. Just remind kids to walk, not run, on the dock.

Personally, I love wrapping up a day at Clear Lake Beach with a relaxed dinner at one of the picnic tables, watching the sun set across the lake. It’s welcoming, accessible, and always leaves you refreshed. Whether you’re planning a quick stop near Mount Vernon or an all-day outing, this beach strikes that rare balance—easy to enjoy, yet never overrun.