CURRENT CONDITIONS

78° F

OUTSIDE WALLA WALLA

Lyons Ferry State Park

Palouse River via Lyons Ferry State Park (Photo Credit: Gwen Dildine)

ACTIVITIES

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(Hiking, Trails, Rivers & Streams, Water Sports, Kayaking, Paddleboarding)

Overview

Summary

Based on the name it shouldn’t surprise you that there was once a ferry that operated the crossing of the Snake River, and, naturally, it was operated by the Lyons family. What might shock you is the fact that the ferry operated from 1860 all the way through 1968 when the bridge was constructed. Lyons Ferry State Park commemorates many historical features of the area in addition to offering loads of outdoor fun.

WHAT TO EXPECT

There was once a campground across the highway that made enjoying the park for multiple days much easier. If camping is a must on the agenda, consider the Starbuck/ Lyons...

There was once a campground across the highway that made enjoying the park for multiple days much easier. If camping is a must on the agenda, consider the Starbuck/ Lyons Ferry Marina KOA on the other side of Lyons Ferry Bridge or Lewis and Clark Trail State Park just 45 minutes away.

Otherwise, the park is open from dawn until dusk. While this part of the world is quite exposed and can heat up quickly, the park enjoys many mature trees that provide ample shade. Birding, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are just a few of the activities that come to mind when planning a day at Lyons Ferry State Park.

Amenities
There are restrooms and showers available at the state park.

Wildlife Awareness
We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains and Walla Walla Valley. So many opportunities exist to play outside, whether in a national forest, wilderness area, or on a Wild and Scenic River. With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild.

Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur.

Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice.

Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day’s adventure is taking you.

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

Hiking

While there aren’t formal trails, there is plenty of space to wander around and enjoy the interpretive signs as well as follow the shoreline for roughly a mile. The Palouse River meets the Snake River at Lyons Ferry State Park. Enjoy learning about the area’s past–Native American significance, the Lewis & Clark adventure, not to mention geologic beginnings. Palouse Falls is also just down the road.

Fishing

A plethora of species are ready for the catchin’ in the area, including, steelhead, sturgeon, trout, walleye, catfish, and smallmouth and largemouth bass. Fishing regulations are highly specific and based on location and species. Please always consult the latest information available from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Paddleboarding/ Kayaking

Lyons Ferry State Park is a great place to paddle really anything for the day. The Palouse River pools up prior to the confluence with the Snake River and water enthusiasts can explore the shoreline, venture up the Palouse River depending on flow, or paddle over to the Starbuck/ Lyons Ferry Marina KOA for an icecream bar.