Howard Amon Park Richland WA
A sprawling waterfront park with scenic trails, a fantastic playground, and sports courts, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Howard Amon Park Richland WA
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling waterfront park with scenic trails, a fantastic playground, and sports courts, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
"One of the most robust and well-rounded parks I’ve ever visited—perfect for families, events, or just enjoying the outdoors."
🚶♀️ Walk the Waterfront
Miles of paved paths offer stunning river views. Great for all fitness levels.
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Columbia River Waterfront Trail
Along the Columbia River
Scenic paved paths perfect for strolls, cycling, and enjoying river views.
Expansive Playground
Central park area
A paradise for kids with climbing walls, sandboxes, and accessible play structures.
Sports Courts
Various locations
Well-lit courts for pickleball and volleyball, often bustling with activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Trail
Family Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Waterfront
Miles of paved paths offer stunning river views. Great for all fitness levels.
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
The playground is a huge hit with children of all ages.
🎾 Sports Enthusiast Spot
Courts for pickleball and volleyball are well-maintained and lit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Waterfront
Miles of paved paths offer stunning river views. Great for all fitness levels.
☀️ Pack for Sun Protection
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
The playground is a huge hit with children of all ages.
🎾 Sports Enthusiast Spot
Courts for pickleball and volleyball are well-maintained and lit.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Shaded grassy areas and picnic tables make for perfect outdoor meals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Howard Amon Park is widely praised as a versatile and family-friendly destination with beautiful waterfront views and excellent recreational facilities. Visitors highlight the expansive playground, scenic walking paths, and sports courts. However, some note that restroom facilities can be in rough condition.
"The wife and I stopped here while enjoying the evening after dinner visiting Richland.
Great park with lots of paved access for wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Easy to get near the water. Even at night it was mostly well lit.
Certainly an interesting dichotomy with the fancy river cruise boat docked at one end and the homeless resources van at the others.
The restrooms were ROUGH and smelled like cheap weed but the overall park was clean and well maintained. We even banged around on the little precision garden next to the playground and it was nice.
Lots of folks playing pickle ball and volleyball and the courts were well lit.
Totally worth a stop and the history of this land is cool too with the connection to the Manhattan project.
On a side note it was nice to see a publicly accessible AED in the parking lot with lots of lights directing you to it."
Mike Devietro
"Howard Amon Park is a very large and versatile park with so much to offer, especially for families with children. The playground area is expansive—kids could spend hours here exploring and playing, which is always a good sign (and might even mean an early bedtime afterward!). There’s even a small rock climbing wall where little ones can start learning to climb in a safe environment.
At the moment, the water pool is under construction and won’t reopen until summer 2026, but there’s still plenty to enjoy. The park also has a nice little beach area along the Columbia River, perfect for fishing if that’s your thing, though I personally wouldn’t recommend swimming there.
The grounds are beautiful, with wide grassy spaces, lots of trees (great for hanging up a hammock), and plenty of shaded spots to relax. There are also picnic areas available to rent for gatherings and special occasions.
Overall, this is one of the most robust and well-rounded parks I’ve ever visited—perfect for families, events, or just enjoying the outdoors."
Misha Smith
"We absolutely love this park! Lots of stuff for all ages, with new, well-maintained playground, zip line, climbing walls, sandbox, accessible playplace, and wading pool. Great picnic tables, trash cans, and shady grassy areas for picnics or parties. Close to the river and walking trail. This is our favorite park!"
Dana Bendt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Howard Amon Park is easily accessible by car in Richland, WA. It's located along the Columbia River. Ample parking is available throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by vehicle.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking with the local transit authority for Richland, WA, is recommended for public transportation options. Many visitors opt for driving due to the park's expansive nature.
Absolutely! The park is connected to a network of bike paths, and there are bike racks available. It's a popular destination for cyclists exploring the area.
Yes, there are multiple parking lots located throughout Howard Amon Park, providing convenient access to different areas of the park.
The park features a well-maintained paved walkway that runs throughout. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and strollers, making it easy to explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Howard Amon Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy all its amenities for free.
Howard Amon Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific facilities like restrooms or sports courts might have their own hours. It's best to check local listings if you plan to visit very early or late.
While many picnic areas are first-come, first-served, some larger areas or pavilions might be available for reservation for events. It's advisable to contact the local parks department for booking information if you have a large gathering planned.
Typically, pets are allowed in Howard Amon Park but must be kept on a leash. Always check local ordinances for the most current pet regulations.
Yes, the park features paved access and wide paths, making it very accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Howard Amon Park offers a wide range of activities including walking, biking, picnicking, playground fun, and sports like pickleball and volleyball. There's also a beach area for fishing.
Yes, the park boasts an expansive and well-maintained playground with climbing walls, sandboxes, and accessible play areas that kids love.
There is a beach area for fishing, but swimming is generally not recommended. A wading pool is available seasonally for younger children.
Restrooms are available within the park, though some reviews mention they can be in rough condition. It's advisable to be prepared.
The park is beautifully lined with trees, offering plenty of shade, and features wide grassy spaces perfect for relaxing or setting up a picnic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Howard Amon Park itself does not have restaurants. However, there are numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, making it ideal for bringing your own food.
Yes, the park has many shaded grassy areas and picnic tables perfect for picnics and BBQs. Some areas may be reservable for larger events.
Information on vending machines or concessions is not widely available. It's best to bring your own food and drinks to ensure you have what you need.
Richland, WA, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes just a short drive from the park, providing diverse dining choices after your visit.
Alcohol policies can vary by park and city. It's recommended to check the specific regulations for Howard Amon Park and Richland, WA, before bringing alcohol.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront trail offers beautiful river views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The playground area and the mature trees also make for great photographic subjects.
Yes, with its scenic river backdrop, lush greenery, and fun playground, Howard Amon Park provides a picturesque setting for family photos.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's crucial to check with the local authorities or park management regarding drone regulations.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful golden hour lighting along the river. Mornings can also be serene with soft light.
The park has historical connections to the Manhattan Project, and while not always explicitly marked for photos, the area's history adds a unique layer to the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to take advantage of the numerous shaded picnic areas and tables. While the wading pool is a seasonal attraction, the beach area offers a different kind of water-adjacent fun, though swimming isn't recommended. The park's overall layout and amenities make it easy to spend an entire day here with children.
🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Fitness Enthusiasts
Bring your bike, rollerblades, or just your walking shoes. The scenic route offers a refreshing environment for your workout, and the availability of sports courts means you can easily switch up your routine. The park's accessibility ensures you can get a good workout any time of day.
📸 Photographers
Whether you're looking for landscape, family, or candid shots, the park's diverse features offer something for everyone. The well-maintained paths make it easy to move around and find the perfect angle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfront Trail
Many locals and visitors alike use this trail for their daily exercise. It connects various parts of the park and extends beyond, offering a substantial route for those looking to cover some distance. The presence of mature trees along the path provides welcome shade during warmer months, enhancing the comfort of your walk or ride.
Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. The path is well-lit, making it a safe option even in the early evening, though it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Family Adventures at the Playground
Beyond the main playground, the park also offers a small rock climbing wall, providing an additional challenge for adventurous youngsters. While the wading pool is a popular feature, it's important to note its seasonal availability and potential for construction closures, as one review mentioned a future reopening in summer 2026.
This area is perfect for family outings, birthday parties, or simply a fun afternoon. The abundance of space and engaging equipment ensures that children will have a memorable experience. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as the playground can be a destination in itself.
Park History and Context
The park's development has transformed it into a versatile community hub. It hosts various events, including art festivals, which draw crowds and showcase local talent. This blend of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical undertones makes Howard Amon Park a distinctive destination.
Understanding this background can enrich your visit, offering a glimpse into how the area has evolved. It's a reminder that many public spaces have stories to tell beyond their immediate use.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit