I wanted to see the Palouse Falls in central Washington and the area around it. I was born and raised in western Washington and somehow I had never visited this area in eastern Washington.  Planning my visit, I  came across a reference to “camping” at the Little Goose Dam Road boat ramp parking lot. Not finding any other choices except for the Palouse Fall campground, I drove to the parking lot. What I found exceeded all expectations. I had a spot next to the Snake River with a gorgeous view. I sat by a campfire that night visiting with the unofficial parking lot host. A truly enjoyable site for the night. I would return.

Location Facts:

• The parking lot camping site is located about 5 miles east on the Little Goose Dam Road from Hwy 261.
• Flush toilets.
• Free.
• Nice grassy area for tents.
• The Little Goose Dam has windows to watch the fish climb the ladder.
• Camping is allowed all along the road, if you don’t like the parking lot. But there isn’t a lot of spots you can pull off from the road.
• There is a fish hatchery across from the Lyons State Park open for public visiting.
• The host told me that the parking lot is seldom full, only at the times of fish openings. The night I was there, there were four of us camping.
• If you like history, google Marmes Rock Shelter.