The Department of Natural Resources has issued a statewide burn ban restricting the use of outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes, and prescribed burns on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection, including all Washington State Parks, through Sept. 30, 2024. This date may be extended or shortened depending on fire conditions. For more information, visit our Alerts page.
No open flames of any type, internal RV stoves OK. No smoking allowed. Trails and undeveloped areas may be closed to entry.
5150 Fort Simcoe Rd, White Swan, WA 98951
Located on the Yakama Indian Reservation, Fort Simcoe is one of the few remaining pre-Civil War forts in the west. Take a walk through the fort and enjoy the landscape.
Alcohol is not permitted at Fort Simcoe State Park. This policy is strictly enforced throughout the park, including picnic shelters.
Bird Watching
Hiking, Walking, Rolling and Running
Accessible Restrooms
Restrooms
Trash Service
Grill
Picnic Shelters
Picnic Tables
Parking
Horseshoe Pits
Interpretive Opportunities
Accessible Trails
Hiking Trails
Field
Wildlife Viewing
Alcohol is not permitted at Fort Simcoe State Park. This policy is strictly enforced throughout the park, including picnic shelters.
Nestled between rolling hills, small farms and tiny towns, Fort Simcoe has a unique sense of remoteness - and a beauty that makes it worth the drive.
Once a Yakama Nation camping area, the rich, fertile region sparked discord between the tribes and Euro-American settlers, prompting the U.S Army to construct a fort there in 1856. Fort Simcoe's military history was short-lived when in 1859, the U.S. military fort was closed and turned over to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. It became the location of the Yakama Indian Agency, as well as home to an Indian boarding school for Yakama children for over 60 years (1860-1922).
Meander the 196-acre park to view five of the original buildings, the tribal jail and restored barracks. Don’t forget to look at the original blockhouse (defense lookout) and take in the golden valley below. Try to spot a Lewis's woodpecker, as Fort Simcoe Park is a haven for this bird of a different feather.
Relax under a shade tree or have lunch in the picnic shelter near the playground. Keep an eye on your food, as bears have been known to enjoy the park, too.
Don't forget to bring your equipment to play baseball, football, softball and soccer in the large, open grassy area.
To book a tour of the interpretive center or Commander's Quarters, call (509) 874-2372 or (509) 925-1943.
