Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area

For Washingtonians seeking a beautiful and versatile outdoor space for family gatherings, leisurely picnics, or simply a day of riverside relaxation, the Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area in Kettle Falls offers an inviting solution. Located along the shores of Lake Roosevelt, an impoundment of the mighty Columbia River, this expansive park provides a blend of recreational amenities and natural beauty. Unlike traditional campgrounds focused solely on overnight stays, the Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area primarily serves as a vibrant day-use area, ideal for community events, family parties, and enjoying the tranquil waterfront. This article will delve into what makes this picnic area a valuable asset for locals, covering its strategic location, available facilities, unique highlights, and why it's a perfect spot to create cherished memories in Eastern Washington.

The Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area is celebrated by visitors for its spaciousness and versatility. As one enthusiastic reviewer stated, "Love this park. It’s big with lots of trail and you can throw parties here because there are two gazebos with tables." This highlights its capacity to host larger groups and events, a significant advantage for families planning reunions, birthday celebrations, or other community gatherings. The presence of two gazebos, complete with tables, provides sheltered spaces for meals and activities, making it adaptable to various weather conditions and group needs.

Beyond the dedicated picnic facilities, the area boasts close proximity to the Columbia River, making it an excellent spot for water-based activities during the warmer months. "River is close by, you can go swimming during warmer months," confirms a visitor, emphasizing the direct access to refreshing waters. While the natural environment, like any outdoor setting, can sometimes bring challenges such as mosquitoes (as one review noted, "the mosquitos were unbearable late afternoon yesterday!"), this is a common consideration for any riverside location and can be managed with appropriate precautions. For Washington locals, Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area provides a convenient, well-equipped, and scenic setting for a day of outdoor fun and social connection, all within the breathtaking landscape of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area.

The Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area is located in Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA. This places it in northeastern Washington, nestled within the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, a key feature of the Columbia River system. The picnic area is situated south of the Kettle Falls marina and campground, accessible via Kettle Park Road. This location is particularly convenient for residents of Spokane and other communities in Eastern Washington, offering a relatively straightforward drive to a beautiful lakeside setting.

Access to the picnic area is generally good, with paved roads leading to the site. While it's part of a larger recreation area, its specific designation as a picnic area means direct vehicle access to designated parking spots near the shelters and amenities. This ease of access makes it highly suitable for day trips, as visitors don't need to navigate challenging terrain or lengthy backcountry roads. The proximity to the town of Kettle Falls also means that essential services, such as grocery stores and gas stations, are just a short drive away, providing convenience for visitors. The area is part of the historically significant Kettle Falls region, once home to a major Native American fishing site, adding a layer of cultural richness to its natural appeal.

• Picnic Shelters/Gazebos: The area features at least two large gazebos (picnic shelters) with tables, providing covered spaces ideal for group gatherings and parties.
• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available throughout the grassy areas, offering ample seating for individual families and larger groups.
• Grills: Barbecue grills are provided at many sites, allowing visitors to cook their own meals.
• Restrooms: The facility offers both flush toilets and vault/composting toilets, ensuring a range of restroom facilities for user comfort. Accessible restrooms are also available.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water faucets are provided, ensuring access to fresh water for visitors.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area makes the park family-friendly, offering entertainment for children.
• Trash/Litter Receptacles: Trash cans are conveniently located for waste disposal, encouraging visitors to keep the area clean.
• Parking: Ample auto parking is available for visitors.
• Benches/Seating: Additional benches and seating areas are provided for relaxation and enjoying the scenic views.

• Spacious & Versatile Layout: The park is described as "big," with ample space for various activities, from picnicking to lawn games. Its layout with multiple shelters makes it highly versatile for both small family outings and larger organized events.
• River/Lake Access: Direct access to the Columbia River (Lake Roosevelt) allows for swimming during warmer months and provides scenic waterfront views.
• Historical Significance: The area is rich in history, being the former site of the iconic Kettle Falls (now submerged by Lake Roosevelt) and a historically important Native American fishing ground. The nearby Old Kettle Falls Trail offers a glimpse into this past.
• Trails for Exploration: The park includes "lots of trail," providing opportunities for walking, leisurely strolls, and exploring the surrounding natural environment. The Old Kettle Falls Trail specifically winds through an old townsite and wetlands.
• Scenic Views: The location offers beautiful views of Lake Roosevelt and the surrounding forested landscape.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, open grassy areas, and safe access to water, it's an excellent spot for families with children.
• Event Hosting Capability: The presence of gazebos and large open spaces makes it ideal for throwing parties, family reunions, and other community events.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting along the lake and trails offers opportunities for bird watching and observing local wildlife.
• Cellular Signal: According to general information about the Kettle Falls Day Use Area, cellular signal is often available, which can be convenient for visitors.

Address: Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA

Phone: (509) 754-7800

Mobile Phone: +1 509-754-7800

The Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area is part of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding facilities, operating hours, potential alerts, or reservations for shelters (if applicable), it is best to contact the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area directly or visit their official website.

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area Main Office:

Phone: (509) 754-7889 (for general inquiries)

Website: www.nps.gov/laro (search for Kettle Falls Day Use Area or related sections)

The Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area is an exceptionally suitable and highly valued resource for Washington locals, particularly those residing in Eastern Washington. Its primary appeal lies in its versatility and comprehensive amenities as a day-use park, making it perfect for a wide array of recreational activities that cater to families, groups, and individuals alike. For residents, the convenience of having a large, well-equipped park with direct river access so close to home is invaluable, simplifying spontaneous outings and planned gatherings.

The presence of two spacious gazebos with tables is a significant advantage for locals looking to host parties, family reunions, or other community events without the complexities of overnight camping. This feature transforms the picnic area into an easily accessible event venue, fostering community bonds and creating cherished memories. Beyond organized events, the park's ample picnic tables, grills, and playground make it an ideal spot for everyday family fun, allowing children to play freely while adults relax and enjoy the scenery.

Furthermore, the close proximity to the Columbia River (Lake Roosevelt) means that swimming and other water activities are readily available during warm weather, a highly sought-after amenity for beating the summer heat. The existence of "lots of trail" provides opportunities for walking and exploring the beautiful natural and historical landscape, including the Old Kettle Falls Trail which offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. While mosquitoes can be a factor, this is a minor consideration for the wealth of opportunities available. Ultimately, Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area serves as a fantastic local hub for outdoor recreation and social engagement, embodying the essence of accessible and enjoyable public spaces for the Washington community.

Old Kettle Falls Picnic Area

Kettle Falls, WA 99141, USA