Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake State Park is like a baby sibling of Olympic National Park and is perfect for Birdwatching

I woke up to the sound of heavy rainfall drumming against the car roof, the chill of the morning creeping in through the one cracked windows. Clear Lake State Park had been on our list for ages, but something about visiting in late winter—when the crowds are gone, and the birds take center stage—felt like the perfect time to finally make the trip.

We snagged Kelsey Campground Site 77, a spot right by the lake, and let me tell you - waking up to that view was everything. The lake stretched out like a mirror, reflecting the gray sky and scattered raindrops, and in the distance, I could already see birds gliding just above the water. Korra, curled up in the front seat, let out a satisfied sigh, clearly enjoying her own space. And yes, there was network at the campground, but we tried to make sure to stay unplugged. TRIED.

Clear Lake is known as a birdwatching haven in winter, and it did not disappoint. While the trails here don’t allow dogs (understandable for protecting the wildlife), that didn’t stop us from spotting Blue Jay, egrets, and an absurd number of great blue herons a few steps away from the campground. A pair of wood ducks dove dramatically into the lake, while a nearby group of coots bickered over something invisible to me but apparently very important to them.

Since we couldn’t hit the trails together, we took long, lazy walks around the campground instead. Korra loved sniffing every tree and trotting up to the water’s edge, where tiny ripples sent her bouncing backward with excitement. The best part? No crowds. It was just us, the sound of rustling leaves, and the occasional distant laughter from another camper enjoying their own slow morning.

As the sun set behind the hills, I got the fire going, the crackling warmth instantly making the chilly evening feel inviting. We had Misal with white bread instead of pav, a simple but hearty meal that warmed us up instantly. Later, we roasted marshmallows, enjoying the golden gooeyness under the clear starlit sky.

By morning, the lake was still, reflecting a perfect crescent moon. We started our day with Semiya Upma for breakfast, a comforting and nostalgic dish that felt just right in the cool air. I can’t decide if I like camping more or the food we end up eating. I guess we’ll never know.

A quiet, beautiful escape from the city, Clear Lake State Park in late winter is it. Even if you don’t hike, even if you just sit lakeside with Korra and a warm drink, you’ll leave feeling refreshed.

Would I come back? Absolutely. Next time, I might even leave Korra at home just to check out those trails. But for this trip, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Have you been to Clear Lake in the off-season?