About Lake Wilderness

Lake Wilderness is located in south King County within the City of Maple Valley. The lake is 67 acres in size with a mean depth of 21 feet; and with a maximum depth 38 feet. The watershed is 420 acres in size and drains to Soos Creek. 

This lake is one of only ten waters in King County managed with a seasonal fishing closure. Spring catch rates for trout are highest early in the season and decline as fish are harvested and as warmer water temperatures force trout to seek areas of colder refuge. Fall is often overlooked by anglers, but can be an ideal time as fish that have been growing all summer become more active around the lake with cooler temperatures. The primary fishing opportunities include stocked Rainbow Trout, Kokanee, and resident Largemouth Bass.

In addition to fish, the Lake is home to a variety of birds, including a pair of Blue Herons, a family of Bald Eagles, loads of Ducks of several species, Mergansers, Green Herons, and too many Cormorants in the winter!

Wildlife include Muskrat, Otters, and Racoons.

Lake Wilderness Park

The City of Maple Valley obtained the Lake Wilderness Park from King County in January 2003. At 117 acres, Lake Wilderness Park is a large regional park with lots of prime shoreline, preserved forestland, and meandering pathways. 

Running through the middle of Lake Wilderness Park is Jenkins Creek, a tributary for Big Soos Creek, which empties into the Green River. The park also includes three wetlands. A variety of birds and animals also make their home in Lake Wilderness Park, including deer, beaver, raccoon, hawks, wrens, and ruffed grouse. 

For more information about  the park and its amenities, please visit the City of Maple Valley's website.