Part of the fun of North Central Washington is not only having the opportunity to participate in the many outdoor recreational opportunities that are there, but also experiencing some of the fun attractions that are there as well. A great way to do this is to camp in one of the region’s many state parks. One of the nicest and most convenient to visit is Confluence State Park.
Confluence State Park sits at the mouth of the Wenatchee River, just where it empties into the Columbia River, in the far north of the city of Wenatchee. The park has numerous campsites that are suitable for both RV and tent camping, an area for group camping, and a fun, carefree park environment. There are climbing toys on a large open grassy area and a roped off swimming area in the Columbia River for the kids to have fun, along with several other features. The park has picnic tables and picnic shelters for those who are just visiting for the day and a boat ramp for those who want to get out and have fun on the waters of the Columbia River.
Running through the park is the Apple Capital Loop Trail. This paved road runs for more than ten miles and hugs both the east and west banks of the Columbia River, crossing it on two bridges that are approximately five miles apart. The path is popular with both visitors and locals and on most days it is quite common to see walkers, joggers, cyclists, skaters and leashed pets enjoying themselves. The road passes through residential, agricultural, undeveloped, commercial, and park areas as it proceeds along the river. It is a valuable asset for the locals and a great thing for travelers to use as well.
Right next to the park is the Horan Natural Area, which offers visitors the chance to hike through an area of wetlands. It can be accessed from the loop trail and just across the bridge from the state park. The path that takes visitors through the natural area connects to the loop trail on the other side and continues into another nice park area from there. The Horan Natural Area is home to several different types of birds and other wildlife that can also be seen. This is a great place for a relaxing stroll at any time of the day or year.
Confluence State Park is also close enough for visitors to enjoy other Wenatchee area attractions and features, including museums, restaurants, farmers markets, parks, and more. Specific attractions in the area that are popular with everyone include Rocky Reach Dam, Lincoln Rock State Park, Peshastin Pinnacles, Saddlerock, Lake Wenatchee, Entiat Valley, Icicle Creek, and the cities of Leavenworth and Chelan.