Welcome to the Lakewood Sanctuary! Birds, turtles and beavers are among the animals that find shelter in this small cove nestled along the shore of Lake Washington. In 2022 Seattle Parks and Recreation worked with community members to protect this area for native plants and wildlife. There are several spots along the shoreline to observe the Sanctuary. Look for blue herons standing still waiting for prey and turtles sunning themselves on logs. Listen for the chime of red-winged blackbirds and spot osprey winging overhead or perching on a snag. In the dusky hours, beavers can be seen swimming or munching on water lilies. Ducks and kingfishers also enjoy the Sanctuary waters and shoreline.
Lakewood Sanctuary is located between S. Adams Street boat launch (Google map) and the Lakewood Moorage/Marina, part of Lake Washington Boulevard Park. This section of Lake Washington Park receives a lot of human use. The Sanctuary is fenced along the shoreline, and a sign in the water states that boats are not allowed in, to prevent disturbance of wildlife.
Near the Sanctuary is a small island, Ohlers Island, on which the Lakewood Marina office is located. It is reached by a walkway from the mainland. At some point in the future, there will be public access to Ohlers Island during business hours, offering another vantage to view the Sanctuary.
Funding for website provided by neighborhood matching funds from the Seattle Dept. of Neighborhoods.
