8 Washington State Parks in Eastern Washington You Should Visit for Outdoor Fun and Scenic Views
Eastern Washington offers a mix of landscapes that’s perfect if you want to get outside and explore. From rolling hills to serene lakes, the state parks in this region provide a variety of ways to enjoy nature without the crowds you might find elsewhere.
If you’re looking for some great spots to visit in Eastern Washington, this list of eight state parks will help you find places that are both scenic and fun to explore. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just relaxing in the great outdoors, these parks have something for you.
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Lake Chelan State Park
If you’re looking for a spot to camp, hike, or just relax by the water, Lake Chelan State Park is a solid choice. You’ll find over 6,000 feet of shoreline and plenty of space for swimming, fishing, or volleyball.
The park sits on the south shore of Lake Chelan, a huge and deep lake famous in Washington. It’s family-friendly with sandy beaches and hiking trails nearby, perfect for a day trip or longer stay.
Plan ahead and get a Discovery Pass to park or camp here. The area can get busy, especially in summer, but the views and activities make it worth it. Check details at Lake Chelan State Park for more info.
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Steptoe Butte State Park
If you’re looking for epic views, Steptoe Butte is a great spot to check out. It’s a 3,612-foot tall quartzite butte that rises dramatically from the flat farmlands of Eastern Washington. From the top, you can see for miles—up to 200 miles on a clear day.
The park’s only 150 acres, so it’s easy to explore. You can drive up a paved road or hike if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s especially popular for photography and catching sunsets over the Palouse region.
You’ll find the park about 12 miles north of Colfax, close to the Washington-Idaho border. It’s a small but memorable stop if you want to experience Washington’s natural beauty.
More details can be found at Steptoe Butte State Park Heritage Site.
Riverside State Park
If you’re near Spokane, Riverside State Park is a great spot to check out. It’s one of the biggest parks in Washington, with nearly 14,000 acres to explore.
You can hike, bike, camp, or just enjoy the views along the Spokane and Little Spokane rivers. There’s plenty of space for whatever outdoor activity you like.
The park also has cool natural features like freshwater marshes and basalt formations. You’ll find areas for fishing, swimming, and even rock climbing if you’re feeling adventurous.
Learn more about Riverside State Park recreation and updates on Washington State Parks.
Palouse Falls State Park
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Palouse Falls State Park is worth the trip. The park features Washington’s official state waterfall, dropping 200 feet into a deep canyon carved by Ice Age floods over 13,000 years ago.
You’ll find limited parking, especially on weekends, and trailers or RVs aren’t allowed. The viewing area is the safest spot to take in the falls since trails below are closed to visitors. It’s a great place for some scenic photos or a quick hike.
Check out more details on the Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site.
Swinging Bridge at Riverside
When you visit Riverside State Park, don’t miss the iconic swinging bridge at Bowl and Pitcher. It’s a short walk but offers great views of the Spokane River and unique basalt rock formations.
Crossing the bridge gives you a little thrill without being too scary, even if you’re not a fan of heights.
The area around the bridge is perfect for photos and a quick break before you explore more trails nearby. You can learn more about the bridge and trails at Riverside State Park on their official site.
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Coulee Corridor State Park
When you visit Coulee Corridor State Park, expect to see landscapes shaped by ancient Ice Age floods. The area features deep blue lakes, wide canyons, and unique rock formations.
You can spend your time hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the scenic views. The park is part of a larger route that offers plenty of spots for outdoor recreation.
If you’re into nature and history, this park lets you explore both at once. It’s a great stop to break up a road trip through Eastern Washington.
Learn more about the park and the surrounding areas at the Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway.
Beacon Rock State Park
If you’re looking for a cool place to explore, Beacon Rock State Park is a solid choice. It’s home to an 848-foot tall basalt rock that was once the core of an ancient volcano. You can hike to the top for great views of the Columbia River Gorge.
The park has over 4,400 acres with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You’ll find camping spots, picnic areas, and plenty of spots along the river to relax. It’s a year-round destination, so you can visit anytime and enjoy the scenery. Check out more about Beacon Rock State Park to plan your visit.
John Wayne Pioneer Trail
The John Wayne Pioneer Trail is a long rail-trail that stretches over 200 miles across Eastern Washington. You can hike, bike, or even horseback ride along the route.
The trail takes you through a mix of forested mountains and open landscapes, giving you a real feel for the state’s variety. One of the highlights is the Snoqualmie Tunnel, which is over two miles long.
If you want a bit of adventure combined with history, this trail is a solid choice for your next outdoor trip. Check out details on the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.
