CURRENT CONDITIONS

77° F

OUTSIDE WALLA WALLA

Little Goose Landing

Little Goose Landing (Photo Credit: Steve Dildine)

ACTIVITIES

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(Camping, Dispersed, Fishing, Rivers & Streams, Water Sports, Kayaking, Paddleboarding)

Overview

Summary

Situated above the Little Goose Dam, Little Goose Landing provides access for multiple recreation opportunities, including fishing, water sports, camping, or just a quiet place to picnic along the Snake River. The river at this point has traded its wild, canyon carving waters for power producing flows as it meets a number of dams on its final push to join the Columbia River. Pack your sunscreen and life jacket and enjoy some eastern Washington fun in the sun.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Little Goose Landing is a quiet oasis at the end of the road in the middle of nowhere. The area is dry and exposed to the elements. Only a small...

Little Goose Landing is a quiet oasis at the end of the road in the middle of nowhere. The area is dry and exposed to the elements. Only a small grove of trees offers reprieve from the direct sunlight. We shared the shade with a barn owl, so you likely won’t be the only creature looking for shade. Visit the US Army Corps of Engineers page for more information.

Amenities
The dispersed camping areas have fire pits and picnic tables. The day-use area offers ADA accessible covered picnic tables and fire pits as well as a restroom. The single lane boat ramp launches into the Snake River.

Regulations
Wood fires are not allowed from June 10 to October 10, but charcoal or propane are allowed during that time. Keep pets on leash. Valid Washington fishing license (if fishing). Fishing licenses are available online via the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife or local retail shops such as Bi-Mart, Wal-Mart, Sportsman’s Warehouse, or Big 5 Sporting Goods.

Paddleboards and kayaks are considered vessels. Washington State requires all vessels to have a life jacket on board along with a noise maker (whistle). They are also not allowed in bouyed areas such as swimming beaches or any sandy area along the river. Also of note, barges travel along the Snake River regularly and can create large wakes. Barges do not have the ability to make turns, so keep clear. For more information about boater safety visit the boater education site.

Field Notes
Pets: In general, pets are allowed on a leash and under control throughout jurisdictions. The only restrictions we have encountered are around swimming areas. As a best practice, be mindful of riparian habitat in general. You never know where a precious spawning area might be located. Pack it in and pack it out applies to your furry friend as well.

Disclaimer: While the Outside Walla Walla team has enjoyed all the adventures listed on this site, we cannot provide real-time conditions & maintenance reports. Extreme weather can change access overnight. Volunteer groups might lose capacity to manage trail systems. We do our best to report that information and update our site accordingly, but please read our Disclaimer (footer) and proceed with any adventure as your comfort level allows.

WHAT TO DO

Camping

A handful of dispersed camping options along the Snake River offer direct access to the water. Many sites have a fire ring. The shoreline is mostly gravel, which makes for less muddy wading and splashing. The campsites are completely exposed to the elements, so be prepared for wind and direct sun. For those cool fall evenings the fire ring is definitely a welcome amenity.

Visit the US Army Corps of Engineers page for more information.

Fishing

The boat launch is frequented by many local fishermen. Ample parking allows for proper parking of tow vehicle and trailer. The boat launch is protected from the main flow of the river, and the dock provides an added break from any choppy water. If you have a fishing boat, Little Goose Landing sits up river from Little Goose Dam giving you access to Central Ferry as well as Lower Granite Dam.

Visit the US Army Corps of Engineers page for more information.

Paddleboarding/ Kayaking

Brave the open waters of the Snake River or hug the shoreline and enjoy the landscape. You don’t have to venture far to feel the grandeur and power of the river. Always wear a life jacket, and don’t underestimate the current. Flat water is obviously ideal for this type of activity, so check the weather and consider an early morning or evening paddle.

Visit the US Army Corps of Engineers page for more information.