Three Forks Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 4, 2025
Three Forks Park is a stunning recreational area located in the state of Washington, offering a plethora of reasons for visitors to explore its natural beauty.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Situated at the confluence of the Yakima, Cle Elum, and Teanaway rivers, the park showcases picturesque mountain views, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities.
One of the primary reasons to visit Three Forks Park is the wide range of recreational opportunities it provides. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. With an extensive network of trails, visitors can embark on scenic hikes amidst the lush forests, or challenge themselves with mountain biking adventures.
When exploring Three Forks Park, several points of interest should not be missed. The confluence of the three rivers is a remarkable sight, where the clear blue water of the Yakima River joins the milky glacial waters of the Cle Elum River. This unique natural phenomenon creates a picturesque backdrop for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the park is home to several scenic picnic spots and campgrounds, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Interesting facts about Three Forks Park include its historical significance. The area was once inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Yakama Nation, who used the rivers for transportation and fishing. The park also played a vital role during the construction of the nearby Cle Elum Dam in the early 20th century, which helped provide irrigation and hydroelectric power to the region.
The best time to visit Three Forks Park largely depends on personal preferences. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather, with blooming wildflowers and warmer temperatures perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping. Autumn is another beautiful season, as the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Winter brings a different charm, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided with multiple independent sources, such as the official website of Three Forks Park, reputable travel guides, and local tourism websites.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pratt River Backcountry Camping
|
||
Alice Creek Campsite
|
||
Tolt-MacDonald Park Campground
|
||
Site 27
|
||
Tolt MacDonald Park
|
||
Mason Lake Backcountry Camping
|
E J Roberts Park
Gardiner-Weeks Memorial Park
Si View County Park
Shamrock Park
Estebo Park