Overview
Lake Spokane (also called Long Lake) is a roughly 5,000-acre reservoir on the Spokane River northwest of Spokane, Washington, formed by Long Lake Dam. Completed in 1915 and operated by Avista Utilities under FERC license, the project provides hydropower and creates a 24-mile-long recreation pool downstream of Nine Mile Falls Dam. Long Lake Dam was once among the world's tallest when completed and is now listed for its historic engineering.
The reservoir averages about 45-50 feet deep and reaches roughly 180 feet near the dam, with about 54 miles of shoreline. Forested banks, riverine upper ends, and a deep lower pool define its physical character. The upper end near Nine Mile Falls is more riverine, while the lower pool deepens toward the dam.
Anglers pursue bass, trout, and other species under Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. Public ramps, parks, and Avista recreation sites support boating and camping along the corridor west of Spokane. Riverside State Park and other public lands add hiking and shoreline access beside the reservoir corridor.
Water levels are managed for power generation, with a normal full pool near 1,536 feet and seasonal drawdown toward about 1,522 feet. Monitoring current lake levels helps with ramp use, fishing, and shoreline access as the pool moves with Spokane River flows and generation. FERC license conditions and Spokane River flows shape how far and how fast Avista can move the pool.
Current Conditions
- Current statusBelow full pool
- Drought conditionsSevere Drought
About This Lake
Learn how this lake is managed, what affects its water level, and where Lake Insights gets its data.
Lake Spokane is a 5,060-acre reservoir on the Spokane River managed by Avista Utilities (Long Lake Dam, FERC No. 2545).