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About the Lake
Lake Lawrence is a 330-acre lake in southeastern Thurston County, Washington State. The lake is divided into two distinct basins. The larger East basin is 277-acres in size while the West basin is 53-acres. The mean and maximum depth of the larger East basin is 12.5 feet and 26 feet, respectively and 9.8 feet and 22.5 feet for the smaller West basin.
The watershed area encompasses 1,340-acres with soils primarily Vashon-age recessional outwash, which are characterized by high (though variable) permeability and provide a direct hydraulic connection between surface water and the groundwater aquifer.
Water enters Lake Lawrence via groundwater seeps, direct precipitation onto the lake, or stormwater runoff within the watershed. During a typical year, precipitation contributes 20 percent more total water to the lake than subsurface flow and nearly 47 percent more than overland flow. However, during the months of February through May, subsurface flow contributes 172 percent more water than rainfall.
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The lake has a very popular 15-acre County undeveloped park with 1500 feet of shoreline and a State Fish and Wildlife boat launch along the southwestern shore of the East Basin that was completely upgraded in September 2019. There are three private community access locations at the lake that have boat launches, picnic facilities and designated swimming areas.
Anglers and boaters use the lake year-round. The lake has a 5-mph speed limit until 11 a.m. to allow for quality fishing. After 11 a.m. the lake opens up. Boaters exceeding 5 mph must traverse the lake counter clockwise. The lake has numerous boating hazards that you should be aware of. Please view this 23-minute YouTube Video for specific information on boating safety on Lake Lawrence before visiting the lake – it could save you a prop:
Complaints about Boaters
Please contact Thurston County dispatch to file complaints about reckless boaters. They can be reached at 360-704-2740.
