Rainbow Falls State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rainbow Falls State Park |
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Falls on the Chehalis River
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 Rainbow Falls State Park
Location in Washington (state)
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| Location | Lewis, Washington, United States |
| Area | 129 acres (52 ha) |
| Elevation | 331 ft (101 m) |
| Established | 1935 |
| Operator | Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission |
| Website | Rainbow Falls State Park |
Rainbow Falls State Park is a cool place to visit in Washington. It's a public park right on the Chehalis River. You can find it about one mile east of a small town called Dryad.
This park covers about 129 acres, which is like 100 football fields! It has nearly 4,000 feet of river shoreline. The park is famous for its beautiful waterfall, which gives the park its name. It also protects some of the last remaining very old trees in the Chehalis Valley. These trees are often called old-growth trees.
Contents
Park History: How Rainbow Falls Was Built
Building the Park: The Civilian Conservation Corps
Rainbow Falls State Park was built a long time ago, in 1935. It was created by a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC was a special program during the Great Depression. This was a time when many people didn't have jobs.
The CCC helped young men find work. They built parks, roads, and other important things across the country. At Rainbow Falls, they built many of the park's log structures. These buildings are still a part of the park today.
Overcoming Challenges: The 2007 Flood
In 2007, Rainbow Falls State Park faced a big challenge. There was a very serious flood. This flood caused a lot of damage. It destroyed bridges along the Willapa Hills Trail. It also damaged the park's main entrance.
But the park didn't stay closed for long! Park visitors found a new way to enter the park. By May 2008, people were able to enjoy the park again. This shows how strong and resilient the park and its community are.
What Can You Do at Rainbow Falls State Park?
Fun Activities for Visitors
Rainbow Falls State Park is a great spot for outdoor adventures. There are many fun things you can do here. It's a perfect place to explore nature and relax.
- Camping: You can set up a tent and spend the night under the stars. It's a great way to experience the park fully.
- Hiking Trails: The park has trails where you can walk and explore. You can see the beautiful old trees and the river.
- Fishing: If you like to fish, the Chehalis River offers a chance to catch some fish.
- Swimming: On a warm day, you can cool off with a swim in the river.
Exploring the Park's Natural Beauty
The park is named after its amazing waterfall. This waterfall is a must-see when you visit. The park also protects some of the last old-growth trees in the Chehalis Valley. These are very tall, ancient trees that have been growing for hundreds of years. They are an important part of the forest's ecosystem.
