Located in Allen Canyon in the northwest corner of Clark County, Allen Creek runs into Lake Rosannah, which flows into the Lewis River just to the north. Columbia Land Trust helped facilitate the protection of the Lake Rosannah Natural Area, which is now managed by the county.
Recreational Activities: Hiking, Birdwatching
Access: Open access, no permission needed, day use only
Dogs: Allowed on leash only
Amenities: Parking for a few vehicles
Trails: There are no official maintained trails, but there is a short, informal trail.
Acreage: 62 acres conserved by Columbia Land Trust, total acreage of the natural area is 200.
County: Clark County
Nearest Town: Ridgefield, WA
Directions: Lake Rosannah Natural Area is located at NW 324th St. and NW Allen Canyon Rd. in Ridgefield. From I-5, take the La Center exit at NW 319th St. and head west. Turn north on NW 41st St. and then west on NW 324th St. The main natural area access is on Allen Canyon Rd. at the bottom of the hill.
Tips for Visiting: There is no public access to Lake Rosannah itself, but there are scenic lake views from the natural area. Access via the northeast gate has no trails, but you can walk through a large meadow (long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended). The southern access point has a dirt-surfaced trail that leads 0.5 miles along the eastern side of Allen Creek and to the lakeshore. There are mature trees in the canyon area and seasonal flowers. Given the site’s proximity to the Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge, the birding can be great, especially during spring and fall migration.
Year Conserved: 1993
About: Columbia Land Trust and Clark County have a long history of collaboration and shared conservation goals. In late 2023, the Land Trust transferred 62 acres of land to the county, to be permanently managed as part of Lake Rosannah Natural Area. This parcel, along with other properties adjacent to parks throughout Clark County, was originally conserved by Columbia Land Trust with the goal of eventually transferring them to the county, as part of a long-term collaborative strategy. The Land Trust utilized Conservation Futures funds to complete the original purchases, which contribute to a shared vision of protecting lands that provide important wildlife habitat, connect scenic corridors, and offer recreational opportunities close to home.
Another 120-acre conserved parcel to the south of the lake is part of the Lake Rosannah Natural Area but has no access at this time.
Project Partners: Clark County Parks, Conservation Futures