At first glance, Kanaskat-Palmer looks like a classic state park, with gentle trails, sprawling lawns and a diverse forest, set on the banks of a river.

But, oh, what a river it is!

As it tumbles toward the mouth of a sandstone gorge, the Green River serves up some of the region's best rapids for rafting and kayaking. Graded Class II to Class IV, this frothy whitewater isn't for everyone; only experts are encouraged to run through the Green River Gorge.

You can find many ways to experience the aquamarine waters without steering through currents, however. Activities include trout fishing, rock hopping and wading in the placid pools and eddies. Maybe you'll see your friend or family member speed by in a kayak.

Kids and contemplative hikers can stroll down the sun-dappled trails, identifying hemlock, cottonwood, alder, spruce and cedar and looking for birds and forest animals.

Though Kanaskat-Palmer is popular with locals and whitewater fans, overnighters can make a leisurely dinner, roll into a tent, RV or yurt, and leave the driving for another day.

PARK FEATURES
Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is a 541-acre camping park on a low, forested plateau, with 2 miles of shoreline on the Green River. Boat and raft launching is by hand only. River rafting and kayaking down the Green River Gorge is for expert-level enthusiasts only.

ADA AMENITIES/FACILITIES

Campground
Restroom

PICNIC & DAY-USE FACILITIES
The park offers one large reservable kitchen shelter with water, electricity, and two standing barbecues. Three picnic shelters and 49 unsheltered picnic tables are available first come, first served.

ACTIVITIES

TRAILS
3 miles of biking trails
3 miles of hiking trails

WATER ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
Fishing (freshwater)
Swimming
White-water kayaking

OTHER ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
Beach exploration
Bird watching
Fire circles (4)
Horseshoe pits (2)
Wildlife viewing

BOATING FEATURES
Whitewater rafting is available. There is no boat-launch fee for this activity.

CAMPSITE INFORMATION
The park has 25 tent spaces, 19 partial-hookup sites with electricity, six yurts, one dump station, two restrooms (ADA), and six showers (four ADA). Maximum site length is 50 feet (limited availability).

Check-in time is 2:30 p.m.
Check-out time is 1 p.m.