Brooks Memorial Group Campground

For Washington locals planning a large family reunion, a scout troop outing, or any significant group gathering amidst the beauty of the outdoors, Brooks Memorial Group Campground in Klickitat County offers an exceptional solution. As a key component of the larger Brooks Memorial State Park, this dedicated group camping area provides a spacious and accommodating setting for multiple families or individuals to enjoy the natural splendor of eastern Washington together. It's a place where shared memories are made under the whispering ponderosa pines, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Brooks Memorial State Park, named in honor of Judge Nelson B. Brooks for his contributions to Klickitat County's roads, is a 682-acre public recreation area nestled in the southern Cascade Mountains. The group campground within this park offers a unique opportunity for larger parties to have their own dedicated space, complete with essential amenities, while still benefiting from the park's extensive recreational offerings. Whether your group is looking for active adventures on trails, quiet moments observing wildlife, or simply a comfortable base for a collective outdoor experience, Brooks Memorial Group Campground is designed to facilitate memorable connections with both nature and each other, right here in Washington State.

Brooks Memorial Group Campground is located within Brooks Memorial State Park, at an address associated with Klickitat County, WA 98620, USA. More specifically, the park itself is situated approximately 11 miles northeast of Goldendale, Washington, directly off US Highway 97.

This location offers a relatively straightforward drive for many Washington residents. From larger cities like Yakima, you would travel south on US Highway 97. For those coming from the Vancouver/Portland area, taking SR 14 east along the Columbia River Gorge to US Highway 97 north towards Goldendale is a common route. The park is well-signed from the highway, with the main campground and day-use area on the west side of US 97, and the group camp, environmental learning center, and some additional trails on the east side, accessible by crossing the highway. While you feel immersed in a forested, mountain environment, the accessibility via a major highway means less time spent on rough forest roads, making it a convenient destination for group travel. This balance between ease of access and a natural setting makes Brooks Memorial Group Campground an ideal choice for Washington locals seeking a fantastic group outdoor experience without extensive travel complications.

Brooks Memorial Group Campground is specifically designed to accommodate larger parties, providing amenities that facilitate group gatherings while maintaining a comfortable camping experience. While it is distinct from the individual campsites in the main park, it offers its own set of features:

• Dedicated Group Sites: The group camp is sized to accommodate a significant number of people, often ranging from 20 to 50 individuals, and can typically host a maximum of six RVs.
• Spacious Setting: The area is generally quite large, providing ample room for tents, gathering, and activities.
• Fire Ring: A large fire ring is provided for communal campfires, perfect for evening gatherings and storytelling (always check for current burn bans and restrictions, especially during dry seasons in eastern Washington).
• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available, allowing for comfortable group meals and activities.
• Pit Toilets: Basic restroom facilities, typically two pit toilets, are provided within the group camp area.
• Water Access: While specific details can vary, the group camp generally has access to water. However, it's important to note a specific alert for the 2025 season indicating the group camp will be without running water due to repairs, with potable water available at the dump station in the day-use area. Groups should confirm current water availability.
• Volleyball Net: A volleyball net is often available, adding a fun recreational option for group play.
• Environmental Learning Center (ELC) Proximity: The group camp is located near the Brooks Memorial Retreat Center, also known as the Environmental Learning Center (ELC), which offers additional facilities like cabins, a large gathering lodge with a kitchen, and an amphitheater, available for separate rental or use by large groups.
• No Power Outlets for RVs: While RVs are permitted, the group camp typically does not provide power outlets for RVs, unlike some individual sites in the main campground.

Beyond the dedicated group camping amenities, visitors to Brooks Memorial Group Campground benefit from the extensive features and highlights of the entire Brooks Memorial State Park. This diverse environment offers something for every member of your group:

• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts over nine miles of hiking and equestrian trails that wind through beautiful ponderosa pine and Oregon white oak forests, along a prong of the Little Klickitat River, and up to open mountain meadows with panoramic views, including Mount Hood on clear days.
• Wildlife Viewing: The varied natural environments provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, including deer, beaver dams, squirrels, and a wide variety of birds. Spring brings a spectacular display of wildflowers.
• Disc Golf Course: A nine-hole disc golf course, established in 2017, is located in the forest near the day-use area, offering a fun activity for all skill levels.
• Environmental Learning Center (ELC): The nearby ELC serves as a hub for nature talks and programs, offering educational opportunities about the park's ecology and history. Its larger facilities can be rented for events.
• Proximity to Area Attractions: The park serves as a great base camp for exploring local attractions like the Goldendale Observatory State Park (known for incredible stargazing), the Maryhill Museum of Art, and the Stonehenge replica, all within a short drive. The majestic Columbia River Gorge is also nearby.
• Diverse Ecosystems: The park uniquely bridges the arid hills of the south Yakima Valley with the wetter Simcoe Mountains, creating a fascinating mix of environments.
• Year-Round Opportunities: While camping is seasonal, the park offers year-round activities, including backcountry snow play in winter (when conditions allow).

For the most current and accurate information regarding Brooks Memorial Group Campground and Brooks Memorial State Park, including reservations for the group camp, seasonal opening and closing dates, water availability updates, and fire restrictions, it is best to contact the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission or the park directly.

Address: Klickitat County, WA 98620, USA (within Brooks Memorial State Park)

Park Phone: (509) 773-4611

Reservations: Online through Recreation.gov (search for "Brooks Memorial State Park") or by calling 1-888-226-7688.

Email: brooks.memorial@parks.wa.gov

For Washington locals, Brooks Memorial Group Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for orchestrating memorable group outdoor experiences. Its location within the beautiful Brooks Memorial State Park in Klickitat County provides a natural and engaging backdrop for any gathering, from family reunions to organized youth activities. The dedicated group camping facilities offer the necessary space and amenities to ensure a comfortable and communal stay, fostering connection and shared adventure.

Beyond the group camp itself, the broader state park offers a wealth of activities – from hiking and equestrian trails through scenic forests to disc golf and wildlife observation. The convenience of its location near Goldendale, combined with the tranquil beauty of its ponderosa pine environment, makes it an ideal retreat without requiring an excessively long journey. Brooks Memorial Group Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a destination where the spirit of camaraderie thrives amidst the stunning natural beauty of eastern Washington, making it perfectly suited for locals seeking to create lasting memories with their favorite people.