Clark Lake Park

Clark Lake Park is a 150-acre natural area located in Kent, Washington. The park's centerpiece is the eponymous Clark Lake, an 8-acre freshwater body that serves as a focal point for various recreational activities. This forested gem provides a serene escape from the surrounding urban development, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature.

The park features a network of walking trails that partially encircle the lake, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems within. These trails wind through forested areas, open meadows, and along the lakeshore, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the natural scenery. A loop trail is in the process of being completed, which will eventually allow visitors to walk entirely around the lake.

Clark Lake Park is known for its rural and forested character, which contrasts with the denser development in the surrounding area. The park's 338-acre watershed includes most of the park itself as well as areas northwest of the lake, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. Water quality measurements taken in 2003 and 2004 indicated that the lake was borderline eutrophic, with overall water quality classified as fair to good.

In 2022, the City of Kent acquired the final 17 acres of land known as the Ruth Property, bringing the total park area to 150 acres. This acquisition was a long-term goal for the city and will allow for the completion of the loop trail around the lake. The purchase also enables the city to control the entire shoreline, which is expected to help protect water quality and wildlife habitat more effectively.

The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including fishing from a dock on the lake, hiking, walking, and BMX biking. It's also a popular spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to observe various bird species and other local fauna in their natural habitat.