Facebook Mail RSS Twitter
  • Everyday
    • Education
    • Neighborhood Notes
  • Sports
  • Food & Art
    • Artist Profiles
    • Food Shopping
    • Local Farmers
    • Music
    • Restaurants
  • Community Channels
    • Around the House
      • Home Inspection Services
      • Insurance
        • Insurance Agent – Melanie Bakala
      • Real Estate Agents in Thurston County Covering Olympia Lacey Tumwater Yelm and beyond
    • Business Networking
      • Chamber
        • Chamber of Commerce
      • Economic Development Council
      • Rotary
        • Gateway Rotary
    • Community Talker
      • Instagram Article Feed
    • Health and Wellness
      • Hospital + Medical Center
      • Physical Therapy
    • Media Partners
      • Thurston Community Media
      • NorthAmericaTalk
    • Mentoring (Big Brothers Big Sisters)
    • Movies
    • Olympia Farmers Market
    • City, County and Government Information
      • People in Public Service
      • City of Lacey, Washington
      • City of Olympia, Washington
      • City of Tumwater, Washington
      • City of Yelm, Washington
      • City, County and Port Meetings
      • Port of Olympia
      • Thurston County Washington
    • Senior Life
      • Cemetery Products
      • In-Home Care
      • Senior Services for South Sound
    • Services
      • Auto Repair
      • Pet Emergency
    • South Puget Sound Community College
    • Thurston County Podcast
  • Featured Businesses
    • Around The House
    • Health Care
    • Local Retail Shops
    • Services
    • Women in Business
  • History
  • Photos
    • Community Events
    • Local Attractions
    • Sporting Events
  • Non-Profits
  • LocalTalk
  • Activities
    • Dogs & Pets
    • Family & Kids
    • Indoor
    • Outdoor
    • Gardening
    • Outdoor Recreation
    • Biking
    • Camping
    • Hiking
    • Running
    • Parks and Beaches
    • Thrifty Thurston
  • Events
    • Calendar
    • Post an Event
  • Calendar
  • Travel
    • Day Trips
    • Overnight Trips
  • Podcast
Search
Monday, July 7, 2025
  • About
    • Story
    • Team
    • Company News
    • Contact
    • Terms of Use
  • Advertise
    • How our Olympia advertising works
    • Launch a Campaign
    • Grow your Audience
    • Measure the Results
    • Company News
    • Contact
  • Events
    • Community Calendar
    • Articles
    • List an Event
  • I5 Traffic Cameras
Facebook Mail RSS Twitter
Sign in
Welcome! Log into your account
Forgot your password? Get help
Password recovery
Recover your password
A password will be e-mailed to you.
ThurstonTalk
  • Everyday
    • AllEducationNeighborhood Notes
      Humanitarian and influencer Kwabi Amoah-Forson stands at a podium with staff from Evergreen State College sitting behind him. a Banner says "Congratulations Class of 2025 - Evergreen" on the wall behind him

      The Evergreen State College Alumnus Kwabi Amoah-Forson Tells 2025 Graduates to…

      a woman leans over an older youth in a wheelchair, there are other adults and kids in a playground in the background

      South Sound Parent to Parent Invites Community to Join Them in…

      a group of high school students smile for a photo standing side by side, each with a medal around their neck

      71 North Thurston Public Schools Students Earn Seal of Biliteracy This…

      Tenino Moves Historic Train Depot, 1975

  • Sports
  • Food & Art
    • AllArtist ProfilesFood ShoppingLocal FarmersMusicRestaurants
      Rendering of a spacious cafeteria-style building with people sitting and walking around

      New Restaurant in Downtown Olympia Opening Soon

      Unique Pop-Up Vendor Brings Dirty Sodas to Olympia Area

      a bottle of Woodborne Spirits vodka with chantrelle mushrooms lying around it

      From Forest to Bottle: Woodborne Spirits turns Chanterelles into Award-Winning Gin…

      a bowl of bao with a red spoon with broth held over it. A bao is being held above the spoon with chopsticks

      Get Your Bao Some Bao in Thurston County: New Dough Zone…

  • Community Channels
    • Around the House
      • Home Inspection Services
      • Insurance
        • Insurance Agent – Melanie Bakala
      • Real Estate Agents in Thurston County Covering Olympia Lacey Tumwater Yelm and beyond
    • Business Networking
      • Chamber
        • Chamber of Commerce
      • Economic Development Council
      • Rotary
        • Gateway Rotary
    • Community Talker
      • Instagram Article Feed
    • Health and Wellness
      • Hospital + Medical Center
      • Physical Therapy
    • Media Partners
      • Thurston Community Media
      • NorthAmericaTalk
    • Mentoring (Big Brothers Big Sisters)
    • Movies
    • Olympia Farmers Market
    • City, County and Government Information
      • People in Public Service
      • City of Lacey, Washington
      • City of Olympia, Washington
      • City of Tumwater, Washington
      • City of Yelm, Washington
      • City, County and Port Meetings
      • Port of Olympia
      • Thurston County Washington
    • Senior Life
      • Cemetery Products
      • In-Home Care
      • Senior Services for South Sound
    • Services
      • Auto Repair
      • Pet Emergency
    • South Puget Sound Community College
    • Thurston County Podcast
  • Featured Businesses
    • AllAround The HouseHealth CareLocal Retail ShopsServicesWomen in Business
      a girl sits at a table on a laptop, a man is next her holding a cellphone and across the table is a young boy holding a tablet

      Comcast Unveils Simpler, Predictable Internet Pricing: What It Means for Thurston…

      outside of the WSECU Hawks Prairie branch with the letters "WSECU" in white on the front and empty parking spaces in front.

      WSECU Guides Members Through Life’s Major Financial Events With In-Person Banking…

      A Multi-Pronged Approach at Penrose Physical Therapy Keeps Patient Healthy and…

      an updated kitchen and dining area with light wood floors, white cabinets and white counters

      Family-Owned Olympia Builder Will Take Your New Home or Renovation Project…

  • History
    • Tenino Moves Historic Train Depot, 1975

      Arleen Webb Crooks Helped Make Olympia a Better Place

      Olympia History: Remembering the Daylight Bakery

      The Marie Bed & Breakfast in olympia

      From Historic Charm to Cozy Retreat: The Story of Our Victorian…

      People in Public Service: Cassandra Messegee Brown, Thurston County Superintendent of…

  • Photos
    • AllCommunity EventsLocal AttractionsSporting Events
      capital city pride

      Thousands Gather in Olympia to Celebrate Capital City Pride 2018

      procession species olympia

      Luminary Procession 2018: Lighting Up the Rainy Night in Downtown Olympia

      snowy winter scene

      ThurstonTalk Readers Capture Christmas Snow

      Twinklefest 2017

      Twinklefest 2017 Window Displays

  • Non-Profits
    • a woman leans over an older youth in a wheelchair, there are other adults and kids in a playground in the background

      South Sound Parent to Parent Invites Community to Join Them in…

      Chris Hyde stands in a kitchen, writing something on a notepad, three woman stand behind him behind a counter

      The Food Source Foundation and ‘Hometown Hero’ Finalist in Olympia Heat…

      a large group of men and woman with a couple kids post for a photo, four are kneeling, the rest are standing. They are in front of a pop up tent that says 'TOGETHER!" with three hand prints next to it One woman is holding a gift basket

      The League of Foundations Unites Three Local Nonprofits to Extend their…

      a man holds a child with a woman standing next to hem and a boat in the background

      South Sound Parent to Parent is a Resource Helping Families With…

      Komachin Middle School Future Business Leaders of America standing behind a long table with food in bins

      Matthew Klifman Takes Over as All Kids Win Board Chair

  • LocalTalk
    • No One Dies Alone Volunteer Program Launches July 1

      Leave Fireworks at Home and Be Careful With Campfires While Celebrating…

      two people hold a jump rope while a dog jumps it

      The Washington Center Announces the 25/26 Season

      FC Olympia women's soccer team clapping while seated on the bench. one woman is standing

      FC Olympia Hosts USL W Title Match Friday at RAC in…

      Mason Health COO Winfried Danke Earns Distinction As Fellow of the…

  • Activities
    • AllDogs & PetsFamily & KidsIndoorOutdoorGardeningOutdoor RecreationBikingCampingHikingRunningParks and BeachesThrifty Thurston
      People on the shore at Tolmie State Beach during low tide, with an island in the distance and clouds in the sky

      State Park Near Olympia-Lacey That’s Great for Picnicking, Walking and More

      a man fishes in a small boat on Lake Sylvia, trees cover the bank on the other side

      Visit Washington Coast’s Lake Sylvia

      Polson Logging Company steam engine pulling the Mt. Rainier Scenic train through the forest

      Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad Still in Operation After Fire, Take a…

      young boys and girls in t-shirts and shorts stand in a line on a field, the hands of an adult are seen handing the first two kids orange balls. The kid at the front of the line is throwing her ball.,

      New Engaging Youth Summer Camps Have Sports, STEAM, Coding, Music, Water…

  • Events
    • a group of people stand next to a red motorcycle, two of them are holding a giant check.

      An Exciting Summer Is Ahead at Mason Health, With Installation of…

      long sticks with salmon attached them over an open flam. A black belt runs in front of the fire pit that says Lucky Eagle Casino Resort

      Heat up Your Family’s Summer at the Barbecue Festival in Yelm

      a man speaking into a microphone with a young boy next to him at West Bay Park, the new totem carving is in the background

      The West Olympia Rotary Commemorates 50th Anniversary Through ‘Life Is Water’…

      an artist sits at a table with her paintings on display

      Shelton Art Walk Returns in 2025 with a Celebration of Art,…

      black night sky with two fireworks going off in red and green

      2025 July 4th Fireworks in Thurston County

    • Calendar
    • Post an Event
  • Calendar
  • Travel
    • Day Trips
    • Overnight Trips
  • Podcast
Home Activities Where to Find Turtles Around Thurston County

Where to Find Turtles Around Thurston County

By
Clare Kondrat
-
McLane Creek Nature Trail pond
McLane Creek Nature Trail has multiple viewing platforms to make your nature-viewing experience extra easy! Photo credit: Clare Kondrat

Share via:

271 Shares
  • More
FacebookTweetPin

When you think of Thurston County wildlife, you probably think of squirrels, birds and maybe a pet or two. But did you know that Thurston County is also home to various turtle species? These lovable reptiles are plentiful during late spring and early summer months during the longest days, but also can be found earlier in the spring and into the fall. While viewing turtles takes a lot of patience, you might be able to spot some around local water areas with some luck. Here are the best places to find turtles in Thurston County.

Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

100 Brown Farm Road NE, Olympia

While the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge is more well-known for its extensive bird-watching opportunities, it has turtles too!  The nicely shaded boardwalks provide a perfect opportunity for turtle-watching. Explore the ones next to the swamps on the Twin Barns trail and you might see some turtles swimming or enjoying the sun on the banks. Bring your binoculars to see the wildlife up close! Parking can get crowded during busy times and on the weekends, so make sure to plan ahead.

A $3 fee is required for entry if you do not have an America the Beautiful Annual Pass, but the entry fee covers up to four adults. Children under 16 are admitted free.

McLane Creek Nature Trail

Nisqually Wildlife Refuge’s Norm Dicks Visitor Center
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge’s Norm Dicks Visitor Center has access to the swamps right behind it, with mounted binoculars available for anyone to use, which make spotting turtles easier.
Photo credit: Clare Kondrat

McLane Creek Nature Trail, Olympia

On the edge of Capitol Forest, you can find the McLane Creek Nature Trail. Going down to the second, larger parking area gives you direct access to the ponds, which are the best bet to find turtles. While there is a mile-long loop you can do if you choose, you can reach the water within a few minutes’ walk from the parking lot. When looking, keep an eye out near the edges of the water. Turtles can sometimes be seen up on logs or in the water among the lily pads.

A Discover Pass is required for parking.

Lake Lois Park

6020 7th Avenue SE, Lacey

Lake Lois is burrowed away in a wetland area right off of Carpenter Road, with a park on one side of the road that is linked to a habitat reserve and small trail system on the other side.Turtles have been spotted a few times along the quarter-mile trail surrounding the lake at the park, but it might also be worth a try to check out the habitat reserve. They can likely be found in the water among the vegetation or sometimes on a rock or log on sunny days.

Lake Lois
Lake Lois has plenty of trees and vegetation to attract turtles to sun. Photo credit: Clare Kondrat

No pass or fee required for parking or entry

Spotting Turtles in Thurston County

Our local species include the pond slider, painted turtle, and western pond turtle. These species generally like slow-moving or still water. Try looking around at local ponds, lakes, and slow rivers, with muddy bottoms and lots of vegetation for them to feed on.

Another tip is timing your search right. Because turtles are cold-blooded, they can also be found out of the water on land or logs to soak up the sun’s rays. The best time to see turtles is often spring and early summer, especially on warm afternoons with plenty of warm sunshine. Make sure to also enjoy the rest of the beautiful nature around you even if they continue to elude you.

For more information about recent local turtle sightings and the turtles themselves, check out iNaturalist.

Best of luck, turtle seekers!

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
FacebookTweetPin

Share via:

271 Shares
  • More
Previous articleThe Evergreen State College Ranked No. 1 in the Nation for Public Good by Washington Monthly
Next articleYelm Community Schools Proudly Reopens Beautiful and Fully Rebuilt Southworth Elementary
Clare Kondrat

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

People on the shore at Tolmie State Beach during low tide, with an island in the distance and clouds in the sky

State Park Near Olympia-Lacey That’s Great for Picnicking, Walking and More

a man fishes in a small boat on Lake Sylvia, trees cover the bank on the other side

Visit Washington Coast’s Lake Sylvia

Polson Logging Company steam engine pulling the Mt. Rainier Scenic train through the forest

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad Still in Operation After Fire, Take a Ride and Experience Local Railway History

Upcoming Events

Jul
7
Mon
8:30 am Crusader Camps-Sports Camp @ Evergreen Christian School
Crusader Camps-Sports Camp @ Evergreen Christian School
Jul 7 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Crusader Camps-Sports Camp @ Evergreen Christian School
Join us at camp this summer at Evergreen Christian School. Camps facilitated by educators and open to students age 3 – 12. Low counselor to camper ratio. It is going to be LOTS of fun![...]
View Calendar
Add
  • Add to Timely Calendar
  • Add to Google
  • Add to Outlook
  • Add to Apple Calendar
  • Add to other calendar
  • Export to XML

Local Community Sponsors

Local Community Sponsors

Business

a girl sits at a table on a laptop, a man is next her holding a cellphone and across the table is a young boy holding a tablet

Comcast Unveils Simpler, Predictable Internet Pricing: What It Means for Thurston...

Submitted by Comcast Comcast, Western Washington’s largest internet service provider, is rolling out a new pricing structure for its Xfinity Internet plans, promising simpler, more...
outside of the WSECU Hawks Prairie branch with the letters "WSECU" in white on the front and empty parking spaces in front.

WSECU Guides Members Through Life’s Major Financial Events With In-Person Banking...

A Multi-Pronged Approach at Penrose Physical Therapy Keeps Patient Healthy and...

an updated kitchen and dining area with light wood floors, white cabinets and white counters

Family-Owned Olympia Builder Will Take Your New Home or Renovation Project...

Kim Parks posing for a photo between framing on a house being built, wearing a black tank top and a tool belt

Welcoming Kimberly Parks to the Boggs Inspection Services Family

Trending Now

Rendering of a spacious cafeteria-style building with people sitting and walking around

New Restaurant in Downtown Olympia Opening Soon

Unique Pop-Up Vendor Brings Dirty Sodas to Olympia Area

Humanitarian and influencer Kwabi Amoah-Forson stands at a podium with staff from Evergreen State College sitting behind him. a Banner says "Congratulations Class of 2025 - Evergreen" on the wall behind him

The Evergreen State College Alumnus Kwabi Amoah-Forson Tells 2025 Graduates to...

Editor Picks

an artist sits at a table with her paintings on display

Shelton Art Walk Returns in 2025 with a Celebration of Art,...

young boys and girls in t-shirts and shorts stand in a line on a field, the hands of an adult are seen handing the first two kids orange balls. The kid at the front of the line is throwing her ball.,

New Engaging Youth Summer Camps Have Sports, STEAM, Coding, Music, Water...

black night sky with two fireworks going off in red and green

2025 July 4th Fireworks in Thurston County

Recent Posts

  • The Evergreen State College Alumnus Kwabi Amoah-Forson Tells 2025 Graduates to Remain Hopeful and Empower People in Need
  • New Restaurant in Downtown Olympia Opening Soon
  • An Exciting Summer Is Ahead at Mason Health, With Installation of New MRI and Summer Fundraising Events
  • No One Dies Alone Volunteer Program Launches July 1
  • Leave Fireworks at Home and Be Careful With Campfires While Celebrating This Holiday Weekend
ABOUT US
ThurstonTalk is a community social network delivering positive stories about what it’s like to live, work and play in Thurston County Washington, including Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Tenino and the surrounding area. Advertise with ThurstonTalk. Brand your business and tell your story to your target market.
Contact us: info@thurstontalk.com
FOLLOW US
Facebook Mail RSS Twitter
  • About
    • Story
    • Team
    • Company News
    • Contact
    • Terms of Use
  • Advertise
    • How our Olympia advertising works
    • Launch a Campaign
    • Grow your Audience
    • Measure the Results
    • Company News
    • Contact
  • Events
    • Community Calendar
    • Articles
    • List an Event
  • I5 Traffic Cameras
© ThurstonTalk, Inc.
Share via
Facebook
X (Twitter)
LinkedIn
Mix
Email
Print
Copy Link
Powered by Social Snap
Copy link
CopyCopied
Powered by Social Snap