American Lake

American Lake on Joint Base Lewis-McChord is a beautiful spot for a fun day outside! Picnic tables, campsites, a marina, playgrounds, grills, and two beaches, the possibilities for fun are endless!

Follow directions to “Summer Cove” on Google Maps. Make sure to use Google Maps, it does not pull up on Apple Maps. This area is located on North Fort of Fort Lewis. On a clear day you can see Mount Rainier.

There is plenty of parking in the parking lots or grass, and multiple areas to pick a spot. This first beach area is located by Russel’s Landing which is a restaurant, marina, and boat shop. This is where the boat ramp is. We prefer this beach since its usually not as crowded.

The boat shop has snacks, drinks, fishing gear, sunscreen, and more. Plus, you can purchase fishing licenses here.

There are picnic tables, parking, grills, and a small playground on this side.

You can’t fish near the boat ramp but there are plenty of other spots! Travis and Aurora caught a few tiny ones.

American Lake is also dog friendly, so bring Fido!

On the other side of the restaurant is a large grassy area and the water with more picnic tables and grills. Here there is a trail that leads over to Summer Cove, with plenty of spots in between.

Summer Cove can be a little more crowded. There is a huge playground and a splash pad over on this side.

Don’t forget your floats! Something to keep in mind, water shoes are a better option. The beach is gravel/dirt and rocks so it gets really hot and the rocks can hurt your feet.

To learn more about Summer Cove and reserving pavilions, click HERE.

Finding the fun everywhere life takes us!
Love, Olivia Michelle