The park was formerly named Mayfield Lake State Park before being renamed to honor Ike Kinswa, a Cowlitz Indian Tribe member.
Mayfield Lake is a reservoir created by the construction of the Mayfield Dam on the Cowlitz River.
The park's location offers a rare habitat where visitors can spot bald eagles and ospreys fishing in the reservoir.
The park encompasses significant elevation changes, ranging from the lakeside docks up through forested hillsides.
The site hosts a unique 'Friends of Ike Kinswa' volunteer group that assists with habitat restoration and maintenance.
Ike Kinswa State Park is a 421-acre recreational area located on the shores of Mayfield Lake in Lewis County, Washington. It provides 1.5 miles of freshwater shoreline, making it a primary destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park features 40 standard campsites, 60 full-hookup sites, and two cabins. Anglers frequently target tiger muskie, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout in Mayfield Lake. The park includes a multi-purpose boat launch and several miles of hiking trails that traverse second-growth forest. It is situated at the confluence of the Cowlitz and Tilton rivers. The facilities include modern restrooms, showers, and dedicated picnic areas for day-use visitors.
The elevated viewpoint on the park’s hiking trails overlooking the entire Mayfield Lake basin and surrounding foothills.
Reserve campsites well in advance, as sites often book out months ahead of the summer peak season.
Bring water shoes for swimming, as the shoreline can be rocky in certain areas.
Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before fishing, as Mayfield Lake has specific rules for tiger muskie.
Do not attempt to swim near the boat launch or dam spillway areas for safety reasons.
Select campsites and cabins may close during winter months; check park status for seasonal limited operations.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; keep pets on a leash at all times; respect quiet hours in campground zones.
