Information about outdoor recreation and outdoor conservation is provided for Tri-Cities WA (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland) and other nearby communities including Yakima, Moses Lake, Walla Walla and Pendleton.
Check out the following topics:
Archery & Shooting Associations
Several shooting and archery associations are located in Tri-Cities, Hermiston, Milton-Freewater, Moxee, Waitsburg, and Walla Walla.
Tri-Cities
Colyak Bowhunters
The Colyak Bowhunters (Facebook) is affiliated with the Washington State Archery Association and maintains an archery range located at the W.E. Johnson Park in Richland.
Tri-Cities Metallic Silhouette Association
The Tri-Cities Metallic Silhouette Association is affiliated with the National Rifle Association and maintains a shooting range located northeast of Pasco and accessible from Highway 12 to the Pasco-Kahlotus road.
Tri-Cities Shooting Association
The Tri-Cities Shooting Association is affiliated with
the National Rifle Association and maintains a public shooting range at the Rattlesnake Mountain Shooting Facility (RMSF). 
Hermiston Gun Club
The Hermiston Gun Club (Facebook) is a shotgun trap shooting range, open to members and non-members.
Milton-Freewater - East End Rod & Gun Club
The East End Rod & Gun Club was created in 1947 for the promotion of the conservation of our natural resources, hunter safety education, the relations between sportsmen and landowner, and shooting sports among the citizens of our community.
Moxee - Sun Valley Shooting Park
Sun Valley Shooting Park offers covered rifle & pistol ranges, archery, trap, skeet, cowboy action, rifle competitions and much more. Note: Moxee is about 20 miles from Yakima.
Waitsburg Gun Club
The Waitsburg Gun Club has both an outdoor rifle and pistol range and offers pistol silhouette, muzzleloading, and trap shooting.
Walla Walla
Blue Mountain Archers
The Blue Mountain Archers is dedicated to the promotion of archery and bowhunting.
The club operates two archery ranges (indoor & outdoor) for member use, sponsors two 3-D tournaments, a summer club picnic and two
banquets each year.
Other Associations
More associations in this region can be found using the following resources:
Benton-Franklin Trends
Benton-Franklin Trends provides information on many indicators such as People, Agriculture, Culture, Recreation & Tourism, Economic Vitality, Education, Environmental Sustainability, Health, Housing, Public Safety, and Transportation that offers residents and visitors a comprehensive view of our community.
Culture and Recreation are key ingredients to an enjoyable quality of life in all communities. A link to this guide's Outdoor Recreation & Nature Conservancy web page has been included in the Culture, Recreation & Tourism section of Benton-Franklin Trends.
Bird Watching, Native Plant Identification & Wildlife Viewing
North Leslie Groves Natural Area in Richland
Note: for additional information on bird watching, native plant identification and wildlife viewing opportunities, view the Conservation Organizations & Recreation Opportunities and National Monuments, Refuges, State Parks & Umatilla National Forest sections on this web page.
Animals and Plants of Eastern Washington
Animals and Plants of Eastern Washington is an excellent resource on native plants and wildlife in Eastern Washington. In addition, maps and other resources are provided. View Wildife Areas, Refuges, and Parks to find wild places in wide-open spaces. According to the author, "The Web is useful but the outdoors is where the wonder is at."
Audubon Societies and Birding Organizations
Several Audubon Societies and other birding organizations serve this region that conduct bird censuses, field trips, and education programs. In addition, they are involved in conservation projects.
- Blue Mountain Audubon Society - Walla Walla region
- Lower Columbian Basin Audubon Society - Tri-Cities region
- Yakima Valley Audubon Society
Note: Larry Umthun is a member of the Lower Columbian Basin Audubon Society and has an excellent gallery of bird photographs.
Backyard Wildlife Sanctuaries
The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife is promoting the creation of Backyard Wildlife Sanctuaries. They are awarding certificates to those who have created a wildlife sanctuary.
Bateman Island - Tri-Cities
Bateman Island (Tri-Cities) is classified as an urban wildlife area and is two miles long and one mile wide. It is located at the confluence of the Yakima River with the Columbia River. Access to the island is from Wye Park off Columbia Park Trail near the north end of Columbia Center Boulevard. Outdoor recreation includes walking, mountain biking, fishing, and bird watching.
The Lower Columbia Basin Audubon Society offers monthly bird walks from September through June where an average of 45 bird species can be sighted.
Blue Mountain Wildlife - Pendleton
Blue Mountain Wildlife, located in Pendleton, aids orphaned, sick or
injured wildlife, primarily birds of prey, by providing the treatment and care necessary to return them to their natural habitat.
Irrigon Wildlife & Willow Creek Wildlife Areas
The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife provides information about the Irrigon Wildlife Area (near Hermiston) and the Willow Creek Wildlife Area (Pendleton).
Oak Creek Wildlife Area - Elk and Bighorn Sheep Feeding
During the winter months you can watch elk and bighorn sheep feed at the Oak Creek Wildlife Area located 20 miles west of Yakima.
Othello Sandhill Crane Festival
Watch the Sandhill Cranes at the annual three day
Othello Sandhill Crane Festival. This festival began in 1998 and occurs every year towards the end of March or the beginning of April.
Palouse Prairie Foundation
Photo of the Giant Palouse Earthworm by Yaniria Sanchez-de Leon/University of Idaho
The Palouse Prairie Foundation promotes preservation and restoration of native Palouse Prairie ecosystems in Whitman and Latah Counties (Colfax, Wa - Moscow, ID region). This organization has documented the birds, animals, and plants that are native to the Palouse Prairie region. In addition to promoting landscaping with native plants, they have interesting information about the Giant Palouse Earthworm.
Pioneer Park Aviary - Walla Walla
Visit the Pioneer Park Aviary in Walla Walla. This aviary is home to exotic birds and can be an educational experience for the whole family.
Washington Audubon - Great Washington State Birding Trail
Washington Audubon added the Sun and Sage Loop to the Great Washington State Birding Trail in 2009. This addition encompasses Southeast Washington.
Washington Native Plant Society - Columbia Basin Chapter
The Washington Native Plant Society - Columbia Basin Chapter serves the Tri-Cities and Walla Walla
area and is active in conducting plant surveys, salvaging, seed collecting, restoration ecology and public outreach.
Washington State Ornithological Society
The Washington Ornithological Society (WOS) provides a forum for birders from throughout the state to meet and share information on bird identification, biology, population status, and birding sites. Monthly meetings are held in Seattle.
Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program
The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) is a state grant program that provides funding to protect habitat, preserve working farms and create new local and state parks. You may search for projects by county for proposed and funded projects.
Washington Wildlife Viewing Guides and Areas
The Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife offers a wildlife viewing guide for the Yakima Area. In addition, information on wildlife viewing opportunities is available for the following wildlife areas: Columbia Basin (Adams and Grant Counties), Sunnyside - Snake River (Benton, Franklin, Yakima and Walla Walla Counties), and W.T. Wooten (Columbia and Garfield Counties).
Wood Duck Cams in the Tri-Cities
The Richland Rod & Gun Club has set up several cams in wood duck nesting boxes near West Richland to live stream the hatching of ducklings and their jump from the nesting boxes. The jump activity only lasts a minute or two. Cameras will be LIVE only when there is nesting activity (generally April, May, and June) otherwise they will be OFF AIR.
Yakima Area Arboretum
The mission of the Yakima Area Arboretum is to create and share a living museum of botanical specimens in order to cultivate a greater knowledge and appreciation of native and adaptive plants in an atmosphere of beauty, inspiration, and relaxation.
Biking & Cycling, Guides and Maps
Several biking & cycling opportunities are available in Tri-Cities, Echo, Moses Lake, Pendleton, Walla Walla and Yakima. For additional information on biking opportunities, visit the Conservation Organizations & Recreation Opportunities and National Monuments, Refuges, State Parks & Umatilla National Forest sections on this web page.
Tri-Cities
Cycling Routes
Bike Tri-Cities offers a Bicycle Map of the Tri-Cities (PDF) which shows bike routes, area Bike/Ped trails, area parks, facilities and other points of interest. Several local bicycle repair shops are also listed. The former Tri-City Bicycle Club lists some of the popular bike routes:
- Bofer Canyon Climb - 21 miles
- Chiawana Park Loop - 9 miles
- Chiawana Park to Sacajawea State Park Loop - 18 miles
- Clodfelter Road Loop - 43 miles
- Columbia Center Mall to Benton City - 27 miles
- Columbia Park Loop - 8 miles
- Columbia Park to Sacajawea State Park - 18 miles
- Grosscup Road Loop - 18 miles
- Richland Bike Tour - 12.3 miles
- Sacagawea Heritage Trail Loop - 19 or 14 miles
- Tapteal Greenway Trail
- Yakima River Loop - 45 miles
Mountain Bike Trails
Popular mountain bike trails in the Tri-Cities area include two trails on Badger Mountain (see Trails & Directions), the Washington State Patrol - Zintel Canyon Trail which is a popular single track trail, and Chamna Preserve. Search for additional trails at Mountain Bike Reviews or contact Scott's Cycle and Sports or Markee's Cycling Center in Kennewick for information.
In addition, over twenty trails are listed by the City of Richland on their Existing Off Street Trail Map (PDF).
Bike Tri-Cities
The Bike Tri-Cities is focused on assisting local governments in becoming Bicycle Friendly Communities.
Chinook Cycling Club
The Chinook Cycling Club was originated as a club for cyclists who enjoy the sporting aspects of cycling, including both national level competitive cycling and regional level recreational competition. They offer club rides for both mountain bikes and road bikes.
Columbia Basin BMX
The Columbia Basin BMX is for those with an interesting in BMX racing. This organizations holds competitive dirt bike racing events at the Horn Rapids Athletic Complex in Richland.
Wheelhouse Community Bike Shop
Wheelhouse Community Bike Shop is a co-op that offers bicycle related services, products, and facilities to the community. The co-op's goals are to expand bicycle usage and knowledge by providing public access to educational materials, workspace, and tools/parts through a member owned and supported central location, and invite the community to Learn, Repair, and Ride.
Echo Red 2 Red XC MTB Race - March
The Echo Red 2 Red XC MTB Race showcases the unique Eastern Oregon desert terrain and MTB trail system near Echo, Oregon. The course is 70% single track.
Moses Lake - BMX Track
Moses Lake BMX is a non-profit organization that runs bicycle motocross events at the Larsen Recreation Center in Moses Lake.
Pendleton On Wheels
The bicyclists who make up Pendleton On Wheels (PoW) are ordinary people with
an extraordinary love of cycling. They offer maps of six favorite countryside routes.
Walla Walla
The Walla Walla region is a good area for both road and mountain biking. Road biking opportunities exist on and off trails while mountain bikers will find an abundance of tracks in the foothills of the Blue Mountains.
Walla Walla Bike Route Maps
Bike route maps for the Walla Walla region are available online:
Mountain Bike Guide to the Blue Mountains
For mountain bikers, Kevin Pogue has published the Mountain Bike Guide to the Blue Mountains near Walla Walla, Washington.
Walla Walla Grit - September
The Walla Walla Grit is held each September. Be ready to push your bike to the limit. The grit course will make you question the line between gravel riding and mountain biking, and find the balance between comfort and speed.
Walla Walla Valley BMX
For those who enjoy the sport of BMX racing, Walla Walla Valley has a BMX track.
Walla Walla Valley Cycling
Cycling opportunities are offered by Walla Walla Valley Cycling which promotes recreational, touring and competitive cycling.
Bicycling in Washington State
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) offers a section on Bicycling in Washington State that includes links to regional bike route maps, state bicycle laws, and safety tips for biking.
Bike Route Mapping Tools
Map My Ride is a great tool for cyclists, hikers, walkers, and others to map their favorite routes and trails and share them with the public. You can use the search form to find cycling routes and trails locally or around the world! Map details can include elevation data and 3D views.
Sharing Our Trails: A Guide To Trail Etiquette
Here is a good guide on Sharing Our Trails: A Guide To Trail Etiquette (PDF).
Boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Wakeboarding & Water Skiing
Kayaks at White Bluffs - Photo by Dave Goeke
Thanks to the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers, there are plenty of water sports to do that include boating, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, and water skiing in the Tri-Cities region.
Canoeing, Kayaking, Sailing, Scuba Diving & WakeBoarding Clubs in the Tri-Cities
There are several canoeing, kayaking, sailing clubs, scuba diving, and wakeboarding clubs in the Tri-Cities area that include:
Columbia Basin Sailing Club
Columbia Basin Sailing Club engages in competitive sailing at Charbonneau Park on Lake Sacajawea behind Ice Harbor dam. They also host the annual Desert Regatta and teach beginning sailing classes in the summer as part of the Kennewick and Pasco Park & Recreation programs.
Desert Kayak & Canoe Club
The Desert Kayak & Canoe Club (Facebook) engages in whitewater-kayaking, sea-kayaking, canoeing, and rafting throughout the Northwest. Note: this is a closed Facebook Group that requires a Facebook account to view.
Tri-Cities Outrigger Canoe Club
The Tri-Cities Outrigger Canoe Club engages in the sport of outrigger canoeing.
The paddling season lasts from April through October and includes both recreational and competitive events.
Yakima Dive Club
The Yakima Dive Club is another scuba diving club in this region that is based out of Yakima.
Map - Boat Launches & Docks - Tri-Cities
Thanks to three rivers, the Tri-Cities provides many places for boat launches and docks. Here is a map of some of the popular boat launch facilities in the Tri-Cities.
Lake Sacajawea & Lake Wallula Recreational Areas
The US Army Corp of Engineers Walla Walla District maintains several recreational areas including Lake Sacajawea, the Snake River backup created by Ice Harbor Dam, 9 miles east of Pasco, and Lake Wallula, the 64 mile long Columbia River backup created by McNary Dam near Umatilla.
Recreation.gov also provides recreational information for Lake Sacajawea and Lake Wallula.
Boating The Hanford Reach National Monument
The Hanford Reach National Monument provides motorized and non-motorized boating opportunities on the nation's only remaining non-tidal, free-flowing stretch of the Columbia River. Jetboat or kayak tours are excellent ways to see the river, experience its history, and catch a glimpse of deer, pelicans, coyotes, bald and golden eagles, egrets, various herons, and waterfowl of all descriptions.
Northwest Discovery Water Trail
The Northwest Discovery Water Trail provides the opportunity to travel and explore the Clearwater, Snake, and Columbia Rivers. The water trail connects you to over 150 sites to launch your boat, picnic, or camp along these rivers when you travel by motorboat, canoe, sailboat, or kayak.
State Parks
There are several state parks in this region that offer a variety recreational opportunities:
- Hat Rock - (9 miles from Umatilla) - day-use, boating, fishing, hiking
- Potholes - (17 miles from Moses Lake) - day-use, boating, camping, water skiing, kayaking, hiking, fishing
- Sacajawea - (5 miles from Pasco) - day-use, boating, water skiing, fishing, hiking
- Ginkgo Petrified Forest / Wanapum Recreation Area - (near Vantage) - day-use, boating, camping, hiking, fishing
Tapteal Water Trail - Tri-Cities
Tapteal Greenway has completed the Tapteal Water Trail for paddlers which is intended to mirror the land side Tapteal Greenway Trail through the lower Yakima River, beginning and ending at almost exactly the same locations. The Tapteal Water Trail begins at Benton City Landing near the Conoco station in Benton City and counts mileage downstream before ending at Bateman Island – a distance of slightly over 30 miles.
Washington State and Oregon State Boating Information
Washington State Boating Information
The Washington State Parks Boating Program is portal for information on boating laws & regulations and boater safety education, including a free online paddle sports safety course.
Oregon State Marine Board
Oregon State Marine Board is Oregon's recreational boating agency, dedicated to safety, education and access in an enhanced environment. Note: an Aquatics Invasives Species Permit is required for all operators of canoes, kayaks, drift boats and other manually powered boats 10 feet or longer in Oregon.
Boating Safety Education Requirement
Both Washingtion State and Oregon State require that you complete a boater safety education course and obtain a Boater Education Card in order to operate a motorboat (15 hp or more in Washington and 10 hp or more in Oregon).
See Washington State Boating Mandatory Education and Oregon State Motorized Mandatory Education for more details including classroom courses, Internet course providers, and home study option. Your Boater Education Card is good in other states and Canada that have mandatory boating education requirements.
Camping
Camping opportunities are available in the Tri-Cities region.
Camping with the Corps of Engineers
The latest edition of Camping with the Corps of Engineers is available from Amazon.
Lake Sacajawea & Lake Wallula Recreational Areas
The US Army Corp of Engineers Walla Walla District maintains several recreational areas including Lake Sacajawea, the Snake River backup created by Ice Harbor Dam, 9 miles east of Pasco, and Lake Wallula, the 64 mile long Columbia River backup created by McNary Dam near Umatilla.
Recreation.gov also provides recreational information for Lake Sacajawea and Lake Wallula.
Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest is located in the Blue Mountains of Southeast Washington and Northeast Oregon. The two nearest districts to the Tri-Cities are the Pomeroy Ranger District and the Walla Walla Ranger District.
The Umatilla National Forest has many outdoor recreation opportunities including bicycling, camping & cabins, fishing, hiking, horse riding & camping, hunting, nature viewing, OHV riding & camping, outdoor learning, picnicking, scenic driving, water activities, and winter sports.
The Pomeroy District has fifteen campgrounds to chose from with Tucannon Campground being the most popular while the Walla Walla District has six campgrounds with Jubilee Lake Campground being the most popular.
Washington State Parks
There are several Washington State parks in this region that offer camping opportunites:
- Brooks Memorial - near Goldendale
- Lewis and Clark Trail - (25 miles from Walla Walla)
- Palouse Falls - (23 miles from Washtucna)
- Potholes - (17 miles from Moses Lake)
- Yakima Sportsman - (3 miles from Yakima)
- Ginkgo Petrified Forest / Wanapum Recreation Area (near Vantage)
Make an online reservation or check the availability of any of the parks listed above through the Washington State Parks Reservation System.
Other Campgrounds
Crow Butte Park
Crow Butte Park is located on a 1500-acre island in the Columbia River, 11 miles west of Paterson, WA on Highway 14. The park covers 275 acres and is accessible by motor and river traffic. There are 50 full service camping spots, three boat launches and a boat basin. This park is maintained by the Port of Benton.
Hood Park, Fishhook Park, and Charbonneau Park
Here is camping information for: Hood Park, Fishhook Park, and Charbonneau Park.
Horn Rapids Park
Horn Rapids Park, near Benton City along the Yakima River, has been owned by Benton County since the 1960s and is the premiere natural area of their park system. The park has a campground, horse camp, model airplane facility, boat launch, and miles of multi-use trails.
Scooteney Reservoir Recreation Area
Scooteney Reservoir Recreation Area is located in Franklin County off Hwy 17 north of Mesa. In addition to camping, there are fishing and boating opportunities.
Yakima River Canyon: Big Pines, Lmuma Creek, Roza, and Umtanum
The 27 mile long Yakima River Canyon, between Ellensburg and Yakima, is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). See brochure / map (PDF). This canyon has four recreation sites that allow camping: Big Pines, Lmuma Creek, Roza, and Umtanum.
Recreation.gov
You can reserve a camping or RV spot at any park maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers or the National Forest Service online and/or obtain a list of campgrounds or other recreational areas of interest at Recreation.gov.
City Parks and Recreation Departments
City parks and recreation departments support outdoor recreation activities that typically include softball and swimming opportunities. However, they also support other outdoor activities including lessons in fly fishing and kayaking.
Conservation Organizations
Several non-profit organizations have been working to preserve open spaces and natural habitats in the Tri-Cities and Yakima region. As a result of their efforts, several recreation opportunities have been created that include hiking, biking, paddling and horseback riding. Note: these organizations are always looking for volunteers to help with their ongoing projects!
Tri-Cities
Benton Conservation District
The Benton Conservation District is a non-regulatory, grant-funded organization dedicated to the wise
stewardship of soil, water, air, fish and wildlife in Benton County, Washington.
Friends of Badger Mountain
The Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve is maintained by Friends of Badger Mountain. This group is lobbying to preserve local ridges for their scenic view and as open space. In their preservation efforts of Badger Mountain, several trails have been created:
- Skyline Trail - 3.0 miles (hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders)
- Canyon Trail - 1.3 miles (hikers)
- Langdon Trail - 2.5 miles (hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders)
- Sagebrush Trail - 0.6 mile (hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders)
- Badger Flats Trail - 0.4 mile (hikers, mountain bikers)
Friends of Badger Mountain, in partnership with the local chapter of the Native Plant Society, Ice Age Flood Institute, and Benton County, have established an Interpretive Loop Trail in the saddle on Candy Mountain. The loop trail is 1.2 miles long (round trip) starting from the parking lot and has very little elevation gain. The trail features signage pointing out native plants.
Friends of Mid-Columbia River Wildlife Refuges
The Friends of Mid-Columbia River Wildlife Refuges fosters understanding, appreciation and conservation of native fish, wildlife and plants located at Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuges and assists USF&WS in providing opportunities and programs for environmental education and interpretation, and for wildlife-dependent recreation.
This organization maintains the McNary National Wildlife Refuge Education Center located in Burbank, WA where volunteers
interested in connecting children to nature coordinate, organize, and host an outdoor classroom. Each year, approximately 2,000 students
participate in hands-on experiential learning stations, including aquatic insects, shrub-steppe habitat, invertebrates, birds, and more.
Lower Columbian Basin Audubon Society
The Lower Columbian Basin Audubon Society (Tri-Cities) maintains the Dr. Rod Coler Audubon Nature Trail (aka Lower Columbia Basin Audubon Society Nature Trail) which consists of eight acres in central Columbia Park between State Highway 240 and the Columbia River in Kennewick. To get there, take State Route 240 to Edison Street in Kennewick and follow the signs to the park.
In addition, this organization organizes local bird walks.
Tri-Cities (continued)
Tapteal Greenway
The Tapteal Greenway has the mission of protecting native habitats and species through conservation and enhancing recreational opportunities throughout a 30-mile corridor along and including the Yakima River extending from Kiona Bend at Benton City to the mouth of the river at Bateman Island in Richland. Many park trails and several boat launches have been constructed in this area by this association.
Two of the major major preserves this organization is responsible for creating and maintaining are
the Amon Creek Natural Preserve and the
Chamna Natural Preserve. This organization also created the Tapteal Water Trail for paddlers.
Washington Native Plant Society - Columbia Basin Chapter
The Washington Native Plant Society - Columbia Basin Chapter serves the Tri-Cities and Walla Walla
area and is active in conducting plant surveys, salvaging, seed collecting, restoration ecology and public outreach.
Yakima
Cowiche Canyon Conservancy
The goal of Cowiche Canyon Conservancy (Yakima) is to preserve, enhance and maintain
Cowiche Canyon with its undeveloped uplands, and Snow Mountain Ranch as a natural area for use and enjoyment by the public.
This organization has created over 30 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers.
Yakima Greenway Foundation
The
Yakima Greenway Foundation conserves, enhances and maintains the Yakima Greenway as a continuing living
resource for future generations. The foundation boasts more than 20 miles of paved pathway, as well as parks, fishing lakes, picnic areas, playgrounds, and river access landings, along with protected and natural areas (see map).
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is a nonprofit organization working with communities to preserve unused rail corridors by transforming them into trails. This organization sponsors TrailLink.com which is a free trail search service. Some of the rails-to-trails projects that have been completed in this region include:
- Lower Yakima Valley Pathway (Grandview/Sunnyside) provides opportunities for walking, biking, cross country skiing, inline skating, and is ADA accessible.
- Cowiche Canyon Trail (Yakima) provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, running, cross-country skiing and wildlife observing.
- Lewis and Clark Commemorative Trail (Hat Rock State Park to McNary Beach Park - Umatilla) provides opportunities for hiking.
Fishing & Hunting
Photo by Scott Butner
Fishing and hunting opportunities are available in the Tri-Cities, Moses Lake, Pendleton, Walla Walla and Yakima areas. For additional information on fishing and hunting opportunities, view the National Monuments, Refuges, State Parks & Umatilla National Forest section on this web page.
Fishing & Hunting Clubs
There are several fishing and hunting clubs in this region that include:
Blue Mountain Pheasants Forever - Walla Walla
The Blue Mountain Pheasants Forever (Facebook) is engaged in upland game bird hunting and wetland restoration and enhancement in the Walla Walla and Columbia Counties and the cities of Walla Walla, Dixie, Touchet, Prescott, Waitsburg, and Dayton, Washington.
Columbia Basin Fly Casters - Tri-Cities
The Columbia Basin Fly Casters is an organization dedicated to the sport of fly fishing. They are interested in developing the sport and preserving the waters and habitat that make fishing possible. The Club was formed by a small group of fly fishers in 1978, and has continued to grow to over 100 members.
Columbia Basin Pheasants Forever - Moses Lake
The Columbia Basin Pheasants Forever (Facebook) is engaged in upland game bird hunting and wetland restoration and enhancement in the Moses Lake area.
Richland Rod & Gun Club
The Richland Rod & Gun Club is an organized group of hunters, fishermen, and conservationists who share a common
interest in the outdoors. Also, this club has a section on Wild Game Recipes on their website.
Walla(2) Fly Fishers
The Walla(2) Fly Fishers represents the fly fishers of the Walla Walla River Valley. This club
was formed in March 2009 and is a charter chapter of the Federation of Fly Fishers.
Fishing & Hunting Clubs (continued)
Walleye Anglers Unlimited - Tri-Cities
The Walley Anglers Unlimited (Facebook) is a fishing club that was formed in the Tri-Cities to promote the sound and ethical sport of walley fishing, and to enhance and preserve the walleye population through education and resonable biological findings.
Yakima Fly Fishers Association
The Yakima Fly Fishers Association is a non-profit group of local Yakima area fly fishermen and women.
They are advocates for education, conservation and habitat rehabilitation for the sport of fly fishing in the Yakima area.
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing and Hunting Resources
Washington and Oregon fishing and hunting resources, including regulations and seasons, are available from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW).
Weekly Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife Reports
For weekly fishing, hunting and wildlife reports, view the ODFW Recreation Report and the WDFW Weekender Report.
Family Fishing
The WDFW promotes family fishing (juveniles, juniors and adults when accompanied by a juvenile). For a list of places to fish and fishing regulations, see Youth Fishing. There is a family fishing pond located at the east end of Columbia Park in Kennewick.
Water Access Sites for Boaters and Bank Fishermen
The WDFW maintains Water Access Sites for boaters and bank fishermen. In addition, information about the types of game fish available at each site is listed. Water Access Sites can be found in the counties of Adam, Benton, Franklin, Grant, and Yakima.
Yakima Nation Confederated Tribes and Bands
Wildlife, Range, & Vegetation Resources Management Program
The Yakima Nation's Wildlife, Range, & Vegetation Resources Management Program manages wildlife and habitats throughout the ecologically diverse, 1.2 million acre Reservation. As a Sovereign Nation under this Treaty, the Yakama Nation remains focused on their responsibility as stewards and protectors of the land and its valuable resources. Each year, the Yakima Nation opens a portion of the reservation for hunting of birds and small game. See The Public Hunting & Fishing Program for more information.
Hiking & Climbing
Hiking Wallula Gap - photo by George Meriwether
Hiking and climbing opportunities are available in the Tri-Cities, Walla Walla, and Yakima areas. For additional information on hiking opportunities, view the Conservation Organizations & Recreation Opportunities and National Monuments, Refuges, State Parks & Umatilla National Forest sections on this web page.
Hike TriCities.com
HikeTriCities.com describes over 20 local hikes in the Tri-Cities complete with pictures, videos, GPS tracings, maps and directions to the trailheads. Every hike also has descriptions with mileage, difficulty, elevation change and other features. In addition, recent blog posts are provided along with photographs of wildflowers and butterflies taken during several hikes.
Inter-Mountain Alpine Club - Tri-Cities
The Inter-Mountain Alpine Club has been in existence in the Tri-Cities since
1948 to encourage the enjoyment of the outdoors and to promote hiking, mountain climbing, and other activities.
Outdoor Adventurers - Tri-Cities
Outdoor Adventurers is for anyone who is interested in outdoor activities. Our meetups include, but are not limited to activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, camping, and backpacking.
Rock Climbing
For rock climbing locations, view Kevin Pogue's guide to Rock Climbing areas near Walla Walla. Kevin's guide covers climbing areas in Southeast Washington and Northeast Oregon.
The Cascadians - Yakima
The Cascadians is an outdoor recreation and conservation club located in Yakima. Activities include hiking, backpacking, climbing, skiing, bicycling, kayaking, and rafting.
Walla Walla Hiking Club
The Walla Walla Hiking Club (Facebook) is a group of awesome people that get together to enjoy the outdoors and hike the many trails within two hours of Walla Walla Washington.
Geology Field Trips - Lake Lewis Chapter - Ice Age Floods Institute
For those who enjoy geology and want to go on field trips that involve some hiking, visit the Lake Lewis Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute (IAFI). This organization occasionally offers field trips in the Tri-Cities region that are open to the public.
Horseback Trail Riding - Tri-Cities
Horseback trail riding opportunities are available in the Tri-Cities area.
Backcountry Horsemen of Washingtion
There are several Backcountry Horsemen of Washingtion chapters in the Tri-Cities area that offer horseback trail riding opportunities:
- Purple Sage Riders (PSR) (Facebook)
- Rattlesnake Ridge Riders (RRR) (Facebook)
Horseback Riding Clubs - Tri-Cities
There are several horseback riding clubs in the Tri-Cities area that are listed on the Hobby, Recreation & Social Groups section of this website.
Horseback Trail Riding Areas
The following are some of the horseback trail riding areas in the Tri-Cities region:
Ayers Road - Finley
Faith Martin, local radio personality, trailered her horses from Benton City to Ayers Road in Finley to ride with a couple friends! You can watch a few videos and photos she captured of her horse ride adventure.
Badger Mountain - Richand
Friends of Badger Mountain maintain several trails on Badger Mountain in Richland that horseback riders can use:
- Skyline Trail - 3.0 miles
- Langdon Trail - 2.5 miles
- Sagebrush Trail - 0.6 mile
Chamna Natural Preserve - Richland
The Chamna Natural Preserve is a 276+ acre park with over 11 miles of muscle-powered trails suitable for jogging, walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Signage throughout the preserve will help you get around and help you to identify various flora and fauna of the area. Horse riders are required to stay on formalized trails and to keep the offloading area clean.
Horseback Trail Riding Areas (continued)
Hanford Reach National Monument - North of Richland
The Hanford Reach National Monument is north of Richland. Horseback riding is allowed only on the Wahluke Unit and only on roads.
Horn Rapids Park - Richland
Horn Rapids Park, mainted by Benton County, consists of over 800 acres. The park has a campground, horse camp, model airplane facility, boat launch, tree collection, and miles of multi-use trails.
Juniper Dunes - outside Pasco
The Bureau of Land Management maintains Juniper Dunes which is just north of Pasco and covers 19,000 acres broken down into three different regulated areas. In addition to supporting off-road motor vehicles, other uses include picnicking and camping, and some hiking, horseback riding, and hunting.
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
Horseback riding and hiking is permitted on roads and designated trails at the McNary National Wildlife Refuge. There are two four-mile-long trails designated for horseback riding. One is located on the Wallula Unit and follows the Walla Walla River on the north side upstream from Madam Dorian Park. The other horse riding trail is located on the Peninsula Unit and follows the river shoreline
W.E. Johnson Park - Richland
W.E. Johnson Park, maintained by the City of Richland, is 236 acres and located on Hall Road off of Van Giesen on the west side of the By-Pass Highway. The park is mostly natural open space with multi-use dirt trails, with approximately 1/2 mile of Yakima River frontage.
Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest offers a variety of trail systems for back-country horse riding. To avoid encounters with motorized travelers, check out their trails in any of the designated Wilderness Areas located on the Forest. Note: The Pomeroy Ranger District and Walla Walla Ranger District are the closest to the Tri-Cities.
Sharing Our Trails: A Guide To Trail Etiquette
Here is a good guide on Sharing Our Trails: A Guide To Trail Etiquette (PDF).
National Monuments, Refuges, State Parks & Umatilla National Forest
Juniper Dunes Wilderness Area - photo by Terry Richard
There is an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities available in this region and information is provided for the following:
- Columbia Plateau Trail State Park
- Hanford Reach National Monument
- Juniper Dunes Wilderness Area
- Lake Sacajawea & Lake Wallula Recreational Areas
- Mid-Columbia River Natural Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex
- State Parks
- Umatilla National Forest
- Recreation.gov
Columbia Plateau Trail State Park
A 15 mile section of trail in Franklin County is now part of the 130-mile Columbia Plateau Trail State Park that runs from the Tri-Cities to Cheney along the old SP&S railroad tracks. This trail is for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The nearest entry point from Tri-Cities is at Ice Harbor Dam. Also, more information about this trail is available from Wikipedia.
To get to the trailhead from Pasco, take Highway 12 east toward Walla Walla, then drive about 8.2 miles north on the Pasco-Kahlotus Highway. Turn right on Ice Harbor Dam Road and travel 2.5 miles to the dam. Continue north to the boat launch, taking the upper road nearest the railroad tracks.
Hanford Reach National Monument
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has current information about recreational opportunities and visiting guidelines for the Hanford Reach National Monument. These opportunities include boating, kayaking, conoeing, fishing, hiking, nature observation, and photography.
The Washington Trails Association describes several hiking opportunities. Be forewarned that these "trails" are not clearly defined. For descriptions of these trails, visit Washington Trails Association and search for "Hanford Reach National Monument."
Juniper Dunes Wilderness Area
For an early season day-time hiking or horseback riding opportunity, visit the Juniper Dunes Wilderness area which is 15 miles north of Pasco (see map). The Juniper Dunes Wilderness is a protected wilderness area comprising of 7,140 acres that was established in 1984 and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).The Juniper Forest area, adjacent to the Juniper Dunes Wilderness area, is popular for off-road vehicles with over 30,000 off-road enthusiasts visiting per year.
Flora and fauna information associated with the Juniper Dunes Wilderness area is available from Wikipedia.
Lake Sacajawea & Lake Wallula Recreational Areas
The US Army Corp of Engineers Walla Walla District maintains several recreational areas including Lake Sacajawea, the Snake River backup created by Ice Harbor Dam, 9 miles east of Pasco, and Lake Wallula, the 64 mile long Columbia River backup created by McNary Dam near Umatilla.
Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex
The The Mid-Columbia River Natural Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex includes several refuges in this region. The administrative offices are located at the McNary NWR at Burbank, Washington. Some of the activities available include hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, boating, photography and wildlife observation.
The refuges located in this region are:
- Cold Springs Natural Wildlife Refuge (6 miles from Hermiston, OR)
- Columbia Natural Wildlife Refuge (Othello, WA)
- Hanford Reach National Monument (north of Richland, WA)
- McKay Creek Natural Wildlife Refuge (5 miles from Pendleton, WA)
- McNary Natural Wildlife Refuge (Burbank, WA)
- Saddle Mountain National Wildlife Refuge (north of Richland, WA) is part of the Hanford Reach National Monument and is comprised of the following units: Fitzner-Eberhardt Arid Lands Ecology Reserve, Saddle Mountain, Wahluke, Columbia River Corridor, McGee Ranch/Riverlands, and Vernita Bridge - see map.
- Toppenish Natural Wildlife Refuge (6 miles from Toppenish, WA)
- Umatilla Natural Wildlife Refuge (located along the Columbia River in the vicinity of Irrigon, OR, and Paterson, WA)
State Parks
There are several state parks in this region that offer a variety recreational opportunities:
- Fort Simcoe - (7 miles from White Swan) - day-use, museum.
- Hat Rock - (9 miles from Umatilla) - day-use, boating, fishing, hiking.
- Lewis and Clark Trail - (25 miles from Walla Walla) - camping, day-use, hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing.
- Palouse Falls - (23 miles from Washtucna) - camping, day-use.
- Potholes - (17 miles from Moses Lake) - camping, day-use, boating, water skiing, kayaking, hiking, fishing.
- Sacajawea - (5 miles from Pasco) - day-use, boating, water skiing, fishing, hiking.
- Yakima Sportsman - (3 miles from Yakima) - camping, day-use, fishing
Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest is located in the Blue Mountains of Southeast Washington and Northest Oregon and the two forest districts closest to the Tri-Cities are the Pomeroy District and the Walla Walla District.
Many recreational opportunities are available that include bicycling, camping & cabins, fishing, hiking, horse riding & camping, hunting, nature viewing, OHV riding & camping, outdoor learning, picnicking, scenic driving, water activities and winter sports.
The Pomeroy District offers fifteen campgrounds with Tucannon Campground being the most popular while the Walla Walla District offers six campgrounds with Jubilee Lake Campground being the most popular.
Updated motorized vehicle use maps are available that show routes open to motorized travel and display designations by vehicle class, seasons of use, and general travel rules and regulations.
Recreation.gov
You can reserve a camping spot at any park maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers or the National Forest Service online and/or obtain a list of other recreational areas of interest at Recreation.gov.
Northwestern Outdoors Radio
John Kruse is the host of Northwestern Outdoors Radio, the award-winning, hour long show broadcast on radio stations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. Northwestern Outdoors focuses not only on fishing and hunting, but also on all sorts of other outdoor recreation topics like wildlife watching, conservation issues, camping, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, bicycling, natural history and more!
REI Tri-Cities - Outdoor Clinics & Events
REI, a sporting goods store in Kennewick, sponsors a series of outdoor related clinics and events in the Tri-Cities region.
Running
Running opportunities are available in the Tri-Cities, Walla Walla, and Yakima areas.
3 Rivers Road Runners - Tri-Cities
The primary goal of the 3 Rivers Road Runners is to promote running events in the Tri-Cities and the benefits of the healthful, positive lifestyle gained through running.
Blue Mountain Endurance - Walla Walla
Blue Mountain Endurance support's the growth of endurance sports in the Walla Walla Valley and surrounding area. Whether you're a new runner looking to complete your first 5k, or you're aiming to complete an Ironman distance triathlon, our goal is to support you along the way.
Hard Core Runners Club - Yakima
The Hard Core Runners Club in Yakima hold championships, races on the road or track, conducts lectures, has fun runs, and promotes educational activities, demonstrations, clinics and social events. It is affliated with the Road Runners Club of America.
Nomad Trail Runners - Tri-Cities
The Nomad Trail Runners is a local club that provides a structured organization for the purpose of promoting trail running as a sport and healthy lifestyle within our community. This club promotes trail running in Southeast Washington.
Runners of the Sage - Tri-Cities
Runners of the Sage is a running group open to all levels, paces, and ages of runners. Each week we generally have a 2, 3, or 4 mile route option, depending on your current fitness or training plan. The routes change each week.
Blaze the Tri-Cities
A Collection of Running/Walking Trails of Tri-Cities - by Jori Perrins
According to Jori Perrings, when people are asked about trails in Tri-Cities, usually they can only come up with one: Badger Mountain. Although Badger Mountain is a wonderful, well-preserved hiking area that displays all the beauty of the Tri-Cities - there are so many other trails in the area that a lot of people are not aware of. With her Blaze the Tri-Cities blog (published in 2014), Jori shows that our area has so much to offer in the way of places to go for a run or go for a walk.
Sacagawea Heritage Trail - Tri-Cities
The Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a recreational and educational trail along twenty-three miles of beautiful Columbia River shoreline in the Tri-Cities that has been created for bicycle and pedestrian use (see map - PDF).
Note: HikeTriCities refers to this trail as the Tri-Cities Riverfront Trail.
Snow Skiing, Snowboarding, Cross Country Skiing, and Sno-Parks
Photo by Kim McIntyre
Snow skiiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, and sno-park opportunities are available in Southeast Washington & Northeast Oregon.
Snow Skiing & Cross Country Skiing - Bluewood
Downhill and/or cross country skiing activities are available at
Bluewood, located near Dayton, WA .
Sno-Parks
Most sno-parks are geared for snowmobilers and very few exist for general snow play / sledding. Here are a few sno-parks that also support snow play / sledding in Southeast Washington and Northeast Oregon. Sno-park permits are required in both states.
Sno-Parks (continued)
Note: the Bluewood Ski Resort does not offer general snow play areas.
- Rose Springs - 16 miles south of Pomeroy
- Fields Spring State Park - 4.5 miles south of Anatone via Highway 129
- Andies Prairie - 8 miles east of Tollgate on ORE 204 - view brochure (PDF)
Desert Ski Club - Tri-Cities
The Desert Ski Club is the Ski & Snowboard Club of the Tri Cities. This club has evolved into a year around Sports and Social Activities Club for singles & couples. Many of their trips allow minors.
Tri-Cities Annual Ski Swap & Snowboard Sale
The annual Tri-Cities Ski Swap & Snowboard Sale is typically held in December at the Benton County Fairgrounds. This is an event where you can buy outdoor/winter clothing and gear and even sell your used gear on consignment. Admission and parking is free.
Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest has several winter sport activities available including sledding and cross country skiing.
Sportsmen Show - Tri-Cities
The annual Sportsmen Show is a three-day outdoor sports expo held in January at the TRAC in Pasco. The show features a variety of demonstrations, vendors, a 3-d archery shoot, and a fishing pond.
State Parks Day Use Fees
Washington State Discover Pass
The Washington State Discover Pass allows you to enjoy nearly 7 million acres of Washington state-managed recreation lands - including campgrounds, parks, wildlife areas, trails, natural areas, wilderness areas and water access points.
You need to display the Discover Pass on your vehicle when visiting state recreation lands managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. An annual pass is $35 and the daily pass is $11.50 (excludes transaction fees). The fine for not displaying the pass is $99.
Fee Free Days at Washington State Parks
Washington State offers fee free days at state parks when a Discover Pass is not required. Check Discover Pass Free Days for the dates. A pass is still required for access to recreation lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Oregon State Park Access Fees
Of the hundreds of day-use parks in the Oregon state park system, around two dozen charge a day-use parking fee which is $30 per vehicle per year. There is also an Oregon Pacific Coast Passport which is a Multi-Agency (Forest Service, National Parks Service, Bureau of Land Management and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department) day use passport that covers entry, vehicle parking and day use fees at all State and Federal fee sites along the entire Oregon Coast.
Also, see the Oregon State/Federal Recreation Passes Guide (PDF) which provides a list of state and federal recreation passes, where they are required, and purchase information.
Books & Maps
Day Hiking: Eastern Washington
Day Hiking: Eastern Washington (published in 2013) features 125 day hikes throughout the eastern Washington region. Who better to cover such a large geographic area than long-time eastern Washington expert Rich Landers, partnered with Day Hiking guru Craig Romano.
Fishes of the Columbia Basin
Dennis Dauble published Fishes of the Columbia Basin which is an easy-to-use guide that includes handy references to fish species, locations of Columbia River tributaries and dams, websites related to fish and fishing, plus 147 illustrations and 16 pages of color plates. To learn more about this book, visit Keokee Books (published in 2016).
Geology - Ice Age Floods
Bruce Bjornstad has published two different books "On the Trail of the Ice Age Floods" that are listed in the Geology - Ice Age Floods section that show the best places to hike, bike, drive and fly to see some of the unique geologic features in this region.
Wildflower & Native Plant Books
The Washington Native Plant Society - Columbia Basin Chapter (Tri-Cities) provides a list of several wildflower & native plant books. These can be purchased at their monthly meetings.
Benchmark Maps
Benchmark Maps publishes several maps for this region that are great for locating campgrounds, parks and monuments, wildlife areas, boating and fishing locations, game management units and public lands.
Washington State Department of Natural Resources - Map Products
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources offers several map products for sale that include:
- State Trust Lands Maps (features: Shows extent, distribution and location of trust lands and diversity and breadth of public lands)
- Public Lands Quadrangles (features: DNR lands, State Parks and Recreation lands, Dept. of Fish and Wildlife lands, Federal lands - Highways, roads and trails - Public recreation sites - Water features - Geographic names)
- State Forest Maps (features: Interesting background information about each individual state forest - Recreation sites and information - Roads and features - Elevation contours - Shows extent, distribution and location of trust lands and diversity and breadth of public lands)
- Recreation Guide (features: This product details the location, setting and facilities associated with each of our more than 130 recreation sites throughout the state)