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
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 Open
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 Civilian Conservation Corps Camp. This is a…
Site: Ice Cave Picnic Area
Site Open
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: Lower Falls Day Use
Site Open
Seasonal Update: Parking Reservation Tickets are required June 15 through Labor Day every year. Located on the Lewis River in the Lower Falls Campground this day use area is near the Lower Lewis…
Site: Marble Mountain Group Picnic Shelter
Marble Mountain Group Picnic Site is located at the Marble Mountain SnoPark on the south side of Mount St. Helens. on Forest Road 83. It is situated between many popular sites on Mount St Helens,…
Site: Smith Creek Picnic and Viewpoint Area
Site Open
The Smith Creek Viewpoint offers a lovely view of Smith Creek and is a very pleasant place to have a picnic. Picnic tables available.
Site: Walupt Lake Day Use Picnic Area
Site Open
Within Walupt Lake Campground.Walupt Lake has a primitive boat ramp and day use area that is great for swimming and hanging out a hot summer day. Mosquitos can be a problem early in the season.…