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Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

A two-mile washboard dirt road leads into Palouse Falls State Park, and the rough approach sets the tone for what campers find on the other side: an exposed high-desert canyon with a 200-foot waterfall, pit toilets, and 12 unnumbered tent sites spread across an open grassy field. No shade, no hookups, no privacy between neighbors. Pets are not permitted.

The camping area itself sits apart from the falls overlook, and as Justin S. notes, "sites are exposed, no views of the falls." Day visitors move through the same general area, which means the campground functions more like a staging ground than a destination in its own right. First come, first served with no reservations. Sites are numbered by picnic table only. The $12 nightly fee requires a Washington Discover Pass.

What draws people here is the falls and the terrain surrounding them. A fenced overlook provides direct sightlines down into the canyon. For those willing to push further, a trail drops through the ravine to the river below, where there are swimming holes and boulder scrambling. The hike involves loose rock and significant exposure. Rattlesnakes are present and worth watching for, particularly on sun-warmed stones. Sunset from the canyon rim gets consistent mention from reviewers. Spring visits tend to offer higher water volume in the falls. Summer days run hot with little relief from shade, though evenings cool quickly.

The road in is navigable by standard passenger cars at low speed. There are no services nearby, so arriving with a full tank and all supplies is necessary. The park sits in a remote stretch of eastern Washington, well outside any town with a gas station or store. Campers who want more developed facilities nearby can look at Lyons Ferry Park, Starbuck-Lyons Ferry Marina KOA, or other campgrounds near Palouse Falls State Park along the Snake River corridor to the south.

Palouse Falls works best as a one-night stop for tent campers who are primarily there to see the waterfall and explore the canyon, and who don't mind close quarters with other visitors.

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Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsPalouse Falls State Park is located in Washington near Washtucna

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Located 23 miles Southeast of Washtucna Wash in Franklin County. From SR 261 Washtucna: Drive southwest 5.8 miles to the State Route 261/260 junction, and turn left at the grain elevator. Follow SR 261 southeast for 8.7 miles to Palouse Falls Road. Turn left, and follow the road to the end (approximately 2.5 miles)

Coordinates

46.66399496 N
118.22859255 W

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    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/20/26

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Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol

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Reviews13 Camper Reviews - Palouse Falls State Park

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5 Stars

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1 Star

39%
8%
38%
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3.5

out of 5

13 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the stunning waterfall views and hiking opportunities, though many mentioned the cramped camping conditions with no privacy between sites. Several reviews noted maintenance issues with facilities and extreme heat exposure in the open field layout.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2020

Danger and Exhilaration

Miles outside of established civilization, past Dayton, Starbuck and Lyons Ferry rests a hidden high desert gem, Palouse Falls. This roaring waterfall has captured the hearts and minds of many since a few years ago when a man rode a Kayak over its 200 foot descent.

This tents only and day use park keeps you safe from the bowl sided cliff with fencing allowing you to take photographs to your hearts content. For the more daring, there is a gap in the fence that leads you on a 30 minute adrenaline rush. Along the winding cliff face are trails work to dirt from the daring, down through ravine and a little minor trespassing on Union Pacific property allows for the 125 foot defending trail of fractured loose stone.

Once you’ve reached the base of the valley, you’ll meander through desert Brush and trees while clamoring over extremely large winter wash boulders. Keep a keen eye for rattle snakes, though they are rarely seen - they can be resting on stones sunbathing and comparing tan lines.

Past the brush you’ll reach the minor step down falls, this is an excellent swimming and fishing hole, safely far enough from the great falls to enjoy a day at the river. If you are still in the hiking mood then pass the swimming hole and continue south through the canyon. You’ll see a wall strewn with limestone scrawling, some decades old professing loves to last a lifetime, mine included.

There are two distinctive paths to take, one is river side and one is wall side. The wall side trail is much like any other hiking trail you’re used to, minor rising and lowering according to terrain, it is dirt with stones and sagebrush. The river side trail is massive boulders from which to enjoy a parkour-like hike leaping from stone to stone and the feeling cheating death along the cliffs edge.

At the furthest point on the trail you will reach the top of The towering Palouse Falls itself, the energy of the earth with surround you and the mist will lightly cool you as you feel accomplished, rowing spited of granite are like statues peering over the 200 foot drop.

Please be cautious here as many people have not lived to tell of their experiences at Palouse Falls, but do not let a darker subset of history dissuade you from your exploration as this is a once in a lifetime journey.

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Brandon K., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Brandon K., July 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Brandon K., July 12, 2020
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2020

Beautiful waterfall, close quarter camping

This is an interesting spot. Love the waterfall and views, but you have to be pretty comfortable camping basically on top of your neighbors. As I prefer a bit more isolation when getting into the great outdoors, this campsite is not high on my list. But, the waterfall area is gorgeous and a unique gem amongst the landscape

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Rachel A., July 9, 2020
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Rachel A., July 9, 2020
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Rachel A., July 9, 2020
  • (15) View All
Reviewed Jul. 2, 2019

Definitely not a typical state park campground

Palouse Falls was designated the state waterfall in 2014 and we had been told it was not to miss. Apparently, four people have died falling off the cliffs here, according to signs as we approached. The road in is dirt with a lot of “washboard” and just over two miles. Navigable by any car, just take it slow. The falls are beautiful but not much to do here. Tent camping only, no RV or van camping in the parking lot. When we arrived on July 2 at mid-day, there were no tents and we mistakenly ate our lunch in a “campsite”, not realizing the day use area was off to the right. Camping area was a large field with no separation between the sites other than the picnic tables being numbered. Pit toilets only. We camp in a van so we moved on down the road after enjoying the Falls.

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Lee D., July 2, 2019
Reviewed May. 12, 2019

Beautiful Waterfall.

If you are a night sky photographer, this is the campground for you. The limited to no light pollution makes this perfect for any night sky event! If you are not a night sky photographer, I wouldn't waste my money. It's a very reasonable $12 a night. But it's hot, very hot. Limited to zero shade, a pit toilet that doesn't get maintained often enough with the amount of visitors. Don't get me wrong, the area is beautiful, gorgeous canyon, high cliffs, waterfall is amazing. There is a trail, on the other side of the protective fence, on the side of the cliff. That's a big nope for me! DON'T GO PAST THE FENCE. So yes, very hot, amazing waterfall, cool wildlife. Not much else. Great day place, not exactly where you want to spend a week.

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Andrea R., May 12, 2019
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Andrea R., May 12, 2019
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Andrea R., May 12, 2019
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 11, 2019

Beautiful scenery, no reservations, quick quiet hikes.

There are bathroom facilities. Beautiful views, hikes are about 1-3 miles. Beautiful overviews of the falls and if you’re adventurous and fit enough can climb down the canyon to the base of the falls and walk along the river. Lots of wildlife, watch out for rattle snakes. Stick around for sunset you won’t be disappointed. Camping is in an open grassy area, no reservations or real boundaries between sites, all sites are smushed together. Very transient turnover. Most people stay one night. A discover pass is required.

Site1
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Tiffany M., April 11, 2019
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Tiffany M., April 11, 2019
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2018

Small but beautiful

The camp is first come first serve. There’s only 12 spots for tents and there can be up to 8 people per spot. The views are amazing and the sunrise is amazing from camping area. We were there in late August and it was pretty cold at nights but the days were cool enough to go for a hike.

SiteSite 2
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Jorge H., August 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Jorge H., August 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Jorge H., August 29, 2018
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2018

Gorgeous But SOOO Hot

Even in early June it was sweltering and dry at Palouse Falls. We stumbled upon the park while driving across the country and it was a welcome break from the monotony of the region. As soon as the sun started going down the weather cooled off enough to walk around the rim of the canyon above the river and waterfall. We didn't try swimming but I hear that there are a few places that it's safe to cool off in the water.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Kelsey M., August 27, 2018
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Kelsey M., August 27, 2018
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Kelsey M., August 27, 2018
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2017

Lovely falls

Middle of nowhere with surprisingly beautiful waterfalls and either an accessible short hike, or a few miles of fairly easy hiking. Make sure to visit in the spring when there is a lot of water. In our opinion, it’s not worth driving a huge distance to visit (unless you’re really into waterfalls), but if you’re in the area it’s a great place to stop and spend the night. The campground is very small, but since it’s so out of the way it apparently rarely fills up. Sites are exposed, no views of the falls. Nice day trip and nice simple state park campground.

Reviewed Aug. 6, 2016

Palouse Falls

The scenery was phenomenal and the Rangers were really great. We had a good time, but the camping area was small and there wasn't any privacy between sites. I will go back, for sure, when I go hiking, but I now realize it's not exactly geared to bring young children. A good friendly place to lay your head for sleep between hikes. Oh!, and make sure you check you gas tank and make sure you have everything you need. There isn't a gas station or store anywhere near.

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Chandra J., August 6, 2016
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Chandra J., August 6, 2016
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2016

Gorgeous Waterfall

Sure was hot when we visited the falls. Camping at the falls is not really a good option as the sites are right in the middle of where all of the people visiting for the day go through. I would suggest camping nearby (maybe near the snake river). There are not clear signs as to where to hike for trails to get you to the bottom of the falls. Some of the hiking is pretty scary as there are no barriers if you were to fall. Definitely worth the visit though!

  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Hollina P., July 8, 2016
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Hollina P., July 8, 2016
  • Review photo of Palouse Falls State Park - DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING — Palouse Falls State Park by Hollina P., July 8, 2016
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there accommodations besides camping near Palouse Falls?

While there's no camping at Palouse Falls State Park, alternative accommodations can be found in nearby towns. The park is relatively remote, described as "miles outside of established civilization," past communities like Dayton, Starbuck, and Lyons Ferry. Visitors seeking overnight options should look toward these surrounding towns for hotels and motels, or consider camping facilities along the Snake River. Due to the park's isolated location in eastern Washington, planning accommodation in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Is camping allowed at Palouse Falls State Park?

No, camping is no longer allowed at Palouse Falls State Park. Despite its name including "DAY USE ONLY - NO CAMPING," there appears to be some confusion as older information may reference camping facilities. The campground is currently closed, and the park is designated for day use only. Visitors looking to camp should explore alternatives near the Snake River or in nearby towns. Always check with Washington State Parks for the most current information before planning your trip.

What are visitors saying about Palouse Falls State Park?

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular waterfall views and describe Palouse Falls as a "hidden high desert gem." The scenery receives glowing reviews, particularly during spring when water levels are high. Many highlight the excellent night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Hiking trails offer both accessible short options and longer routes, with opportunities to view wildlife (though rattlesnake awareness is advised). Some mention the rough, washboard dirt road leading to the park, though it's navigable by standard vehicles. The falls' dramatic 200-foot descent and surrounding canyon landscapes make it a unique destination despite the remote location.

When is Palouse Falls State Park open to visitors?

Palouse Falls State Park is open year-round for day use visitors, though spring is often recommended as the best time to visit when water flow is highest, creating more dramatic falls. The park has bathroom facilities and offers several hiking trails ranging from 1-3 miles. Summer visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures with limited shade. For the most spectacular experience, many visitors recommend staying for sunset or arriving early for sunrise views over the canyon.