 | | Potholes Reservoir is part of the Columbia Basin Project and formed by O'Sullivan Dam. "Potholes" refers to the many glacial depressions in ancient sand dunes here. These potholes and small islands make this area one of the best in Washington for birding. The best birding is from March through October: Sandhill cranes and waterfowl in late February, raptors in April, Sage Thrasher, Lark Sparrow, Burrowing and Long-eared Owls and shorebirds in May. With the August reservoir drawdown, the exposed mudflats attract shorebirds such as a variety of sandpipers, stilts, plovers and curlews. Access to the reservoir is adequate except the west side is somewhat limited. Fish species include yellow perch, crappie, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and walleye. Fishing is year-round. Other wildlife such as rabbits, coyotes, deer, elk, and bears have been spotted around the area. Hunting is permitted during specified seasons. Recreation in the area is full of variety. All types of water sports are allowed. Some of these include water skiing, boating, swimming, kayaking, and tubing. Picnicking on the shores of the reservoir is very popular as well. Most of the areas are covered to provide shelter from intense sun or the occasional rain shower. ATV trails line the outside area into the state park as well. |
| |  | | | Facilities: Potholes Reservoir Reservations: Reservations are not accepted for Potholes Reservoir. Best Time To Visit: Potholes Reservoir is open year-round. Fees: No fees are charged. Accessibility: Handicap accessibility is provided. Rules: Hunting permits required. Directions: To reach Potholes Reservoir from Ephrata start out going southwest on Alder St SW toward 3rd Ave SW. for 0.1 miles. Turn left onto 3rd Ave SW. for 0.1 miles. 3rd Ave SW becomes Southeast Blvd. for 0.1 miles. Turn right onto A St SE. for 0.7 miles. A St SE becomes Dodson Rd. for 23.8 miles. Turn left onto Frenchmen Rd W. for 4.7 miles. Turn left onto WA-262 for 4.8 miles. Turn left onto Road F SE. for 0.7 miles. (There are .89 miles between your ending location and the end of your driving directions. Use maps to get from your ending location to the end of your route.) End at Potholes Reservoir. | | |
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| | | | Address | | Bureau of Reclamation: Washington Department of Wildlife | | 1550 Alder St. N.W. | | Ephrata, Washington 98823 |
| | | Phone | | General: (509) 754-4624 | |
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