Long Lake (Kitsap County, Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Long Lake |
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 Long Lake
Location in Washington (state)
Long Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Port Orchard, Kitsap County, Washington |
| Coordinates | 47°29′06″N 122°35′24″W / 47.485°N 122.590°W |
Long Lake is the biggest freshwater lake in Port Orchard, Kitsap County, Washington. It stretches about two miles long and is 2,000 feet wide at its widest point. For over a hundred years, people have visited Long Lake to enjoy its waters for swimming, fishing, and relaxing.
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A Look Back in Time
People started settling near Long Lake in the late 1800s. They were drawn to its clear waters for sunbathing and swimming. For a long time, the lake was a hidden gem, mostly known by local people who loved to visit it for fun. Even today, many people still come to Long Lake to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Community Clubhouse
The Long Lake clubhouse is a special place with a long history. It stands where an old school building was built in 1891 by early settlers. The land for the school was given by a person known as 'Dad' Williams. Students from first to eighth grade attended classes there.
After World War II, many small schools were combined into bigger ones. This school was sold for just $1. The only rule was that whoever bought it had to use it as a community club. It could not be used for any other purpose. Today, the clubhouse is still a busy community center. It is used for events and as a gathering space for everyone.
Changes Around the Lake
In recent years, many new houses have been built around Long Lake. This development has caused some problems for the lake's water quality. Things like silt (fine dirt) and chemicals from the new homes can wash into the lake. This makes the water cloudy and less clean.
Some local residents are worried about these changes. They have noticed the lake getting shallower and the water becoming less clear. This rapid development is a big concern for the community. While some people think it helps local businesses, others are upset about the lake's decreasing quality over time.
Fun Activities at Long Lake
Long Lake is a popular spot for many outdoor activities. People come here to enjoy fishing, water sports, and swimming. There is also a park area for local residents to use. In the summer, the beach is a favorite place for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Fishing at Long Lake
Long Lake is a great place for fishing, especially in the spring. You can often catch Coastal Cutthroat trout during this time. Largemouth Bass and Yellow Perch fishing is also good from spring into summer. If you like catching Bluegill Sunfish and Black Crappie, late summer into fall is the best time.
Bass fishing is very popular here. There are even stories about a legendary, giant bass named Walter, said to be the biggest fish in the lake! You can fish from both motorized and non-motorized boats. However, fishing is only allowed between April 1 and September 30 each year.
Keeping Long Lake Healthy
Long Lake has faced many environmental challenges. Sometimes, the lake has to close because of harmful invasive weeds, parasites, algae, and even E. coli bacteria. These problems are caused by things like runoff from land, chemicals, and other environmental issues that affect the water.
A group called "Citizens for Improving Long Lake" used to help keep the lake clean. Unfortunately, this committee ran out of money. Now, the lake continues to face increasing problems with its watershed, which is the area of land that drains into the lake. Protecting the lake's health is an ongoing challenge for the community.
