American Lake Park North
Rate this placeNearby: Lakeland County Park Harry Todd Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
American Lake Park North is a scenic park located in Pierce County, Washington, about 30 minutes south of Seattle.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The park is situated on the shores of American Lake, and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main reasons to visit American Lake Park North is for its beautiful scenery. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests, and visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and waterfront activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
One of the main points of interest in the park is the American Lake Veterans Golf Course, which is a public golf course that was designed specifically for veterans and their families. The course is highly rated for its challenging layout and scenic views of the lake.
Another interesting fact about American Lake Park North is that it was once the site of Camp Lewis, a military training camp that was used during World War I. Today, visitors can still see some of the historic buildings and monuments that were built during this time period.
The best time of year to visit American Lake Park North is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny and water activities are most enjoyable. However, the park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities during the fall and winter months as well.
Overall, American Lake Park North is a great destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Washington state, while also learning about its rich military history.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Murray Beach Military
|
||
Fort Lewis Military
|
||
Holiday Park Military - McChord AFB
|
||
Penrose Point State Park
|
||
wwta camp site
|
Lakeland County Park
Harry Todd Park
Lakewood Gardens
Fort Steilacoom Park
Farrell Marsh Park