Beacon Rock State Park

A couple of week ago we were able to take off on a two-night camping trip to Beacon Rock State Park.  This park is in Washington snuggled up close to the Columbia River.  This is only the second time we have been on longer than a one-nighter with our own little family.  It takes so much work to set up a campsite!  Why not stay for as long as possible? 

The view looking up from inside our tent.  How fun to just lay there, staring up at the tree and the blue sky.  The weather was perfect.  Not too hot, not too cold.  

My super happy campers.  They were loving it.

From the campground, there is a nice, 2.5 hike to Hardy Falls and Rodney Falls.  Our kids were great hikers.  Libby even found some hiking poles to use along the way.

There is also a nice view of the Columbia River from the hike.

Libby decided it was best to carry her hiking sticks in her belt loops so she could pick up even more sticks.

Looking at Hardy Falls.

This picture above is of Rodney Falls, the section they call the Pool of the Winds.  The water pours down into this little pool, surrounded by rock, making a constant rush of wind from the opening.  It was very cool.  My picture definitely doesn't do it justice.  You should Google some better pictures.

Later that day we found a little spot to get down by the Columbia River, close to the Bonneville Dam.  To our surprise, there were sea lions fishing in the river not too far from us.  We didn't realize they came up the river so far but a local told us the sea lions have been doing that for a little while now and it's causing quite the controversy.  Fisherman don't like the sea lions taking the fish, but no one wants the sea lions hurt.  Apparently, relocation doesn't work. They just come right back.  But they were fun to watch for a little while.

We all had a blast.   The kids all told me they wanted to camp a lot more!  They also asked if we could stay longer, but unfortunately, we had to get back home.  We definitely need to plan another trip soon!