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.