Mission

Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park (FLSSP) supports, enhances, and promotes Lake Sammamish State Park for the benefit and enjoyment of our diverse community.

Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park (FLSSP) is committed to making outdoor recreation and Lake Sammamish State Park more accessible and inclusive for all communities. Our goal is to connect all populations to the park's environmental, educational, and recreational resources, and to strengthen those connections by improving the park, organizing community events, and providing engaging programs.

FLSSP proudly supports the mission of the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission to connect all Washingtonians to their diverse natural and cultural heritage and to provide them with unforgettable recreational and educational experiences that enrich their lives.

Vision

Our vision for Lake Sammamish State Park is to create an innovative model for inclusive recreational, cultural, historical, and natural sites in the 21st century. We aim to make this park Washington's signature park, where we actively protect and celebrate urban natural areas, preserve significant wetlands and wildlife habitats, and enhance the experiences of our visitors. Our efforts will ensure that Lake Sammamish State Park continues to enrich the lives of our visitors and provide a treasured legacy for future generations.

Board & Staff

Board of Trustees

  • Paige Basinger, President

  • Sam Elder, Treasurer

  • Jamison Rush, Secretary

  • Dave Kappler, Trails Committee Chair

  • Grace Whitten, Events Committee Chair

  • Marilyn Wilshin

  • Tiffanny Brooks

  • David Kyle

  • Nitin Sanghi

Advisory council

  • Stacy Vynn McKinstry, City of Issaquah

  • Janie Walzer, City of Sammamish

  • Jim Berry, Advisor

  • Debbie Berto, Advisor

  • Brad Book, Advisor

  • David Bush, Advisor

  • Connie Marsh, Advisor

  • Dora Rajkhowa, Advisor

Staff

  • Jessica Schafer, Executive Director - director@flssp.org

  • Sarah Polster Tribble, Operations Manager - operations@flssp.org

Lake Sammamish State Park PARTNERS

  • Shawn Tobin, Cascades Foothills Area Manager

  • Suzanne Kagen, Cascade Foothills Area Program Specialist

What is a Friends Group?

Friends Groups are made up of passionate volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to supporting their local state park. These groups lead activities like educational programs and events, coordinate park-specific volunteer activities, fundraise, and operate park stores - all to enhance the visitor experience and protect our parks for future generations to enjoy. 

Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park (FLSSP) is one of over 25 Friends Groups that support the 124 state parks in Washington. Whether you're a hiker, camper, or just someone who appreciates the natural beauty of our state, there's a Friends Group that would love to have you on board. 

By joining a Friends Group, you'll make a positive impact on your favorite park and connect with like-minded individuals who share your love for the outdoors. Learn more about these incredible groups and the Washington State Parks Foundation by visiting Friends of Parks - Washington State Parks Foundation (waparks.org). Let's work together to keep our state parks thriving for generations to come.

FLSSP History

In 2013, a group of volunteers came together with a shared vision to breathe new life into the park and make it a true gem of the Seattle area. The story of the Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park (FLSSP) is one of community, dedication, and transformation.

With passion and hard work, FLSSP members campaigned tirelessly to secure funding for capital improvements and spearheaded efforts to clean and resurface the park’s beaches, remove invasive plant species, and enhance the picnic areas that had been neglected for far too long. 

But they didn't stop there. Driven by the belief that everyone should have access to nature and play, FLSSP raised over $1,000,000 for an all-access playground and developed a Comprehensive Trails Plan that will make the park more accessible for all. 

Today, Lake Sammamish is a thriving hub that supports a diverse array of plant, fish, and animal wildlife and serves as a recreational destination for people from all walks of life.

The work of FLSSP is never done, but our determination to protect and enhance the beauty of this beloved urban environment only grows stronger. When a community joins forces with a shared vision and an unshakeable commitment to making a difference, we can create a profound and lasting impact. Let us continue to work together and inspire each other to build a better future for all.

Annual Reports