Picnicking
There are many amazing places to picknick on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Picnicking - Single
Use the Search section below to look for Single Use Picnicking Areas.
Picnicking - Group
Search for Picnicking Opportunities
Mount St. Helens West: State Highway 504
Site Open
One of the main roads into Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, State Route 504 provides spectacular views of the landscape, including the crater, blast zone, and Toutle River Valley.ALERT:…
Mt. Adams area
Mt. Adams area is administered by the Mt Adams Ranger District. This area is located in the eastern portions of Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwest Washington and comprises 367,000 acres.…
Observation Site: McClellan
Site Open
On a clear day, this site offers stunning views of the south side of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding area. The parking area and viewing platforms are paved and flat. In the video it's at about…
Observation Site: Palisades
Site Open
The Palisades are a rock formation of dacite columns. There are interpretive signs at this scenic view point. There was a view of Mt. Rainier but the trees have grown taller blocking the view.Open…
Pine Creek Information Center
Site Closed
Pine Creek Information Center is often an important stop for visitors to the south and east side of the Monument who need information, maps, passes, souvenirs, restrooms, or to stretch their…
Site: Coldwater Lake Picnic and Boating Area
Site Open
Coldwater Lake Recreation Area is located at Mile Marker (MP) 45 on State Route 504 east of Castle Rock in the heart of the blast zone near the Science and Learning Center at Coldwater and Johnston…
Site: Hemlock Picnic Area
Site Closed
This site on Trout Creek offers a covered picnic area and viewing platform at a steelhead recovery site on the historic Wind River Nursery and Hemlock CCC Camp. This is a great jumping off point for…
Site: Ice Cave Picnic Area
Site Closed
A group of forested picnic areas with tables and fire rings are located adjacent to the Ice Cave, a popular 650 foot long cave that has a beautiful display of ice stalactites and ice stalagmites…
Site: Iron Creek Picnic Area
Site Open
The area consists of very tall old growth trees with lush vegetation and room to roam. The picnic area is set among a majestic forest glen along the Cispus River adjacent to the Iron Creek…
Site: La Wis Wis Picnic Area
Site Closed
Shelter, tables, and interpretive plaques are available at this site. This site is within La Wis Wis Campground.