Season: Summer (June to September) 

White River Picnic Area is typically open late June to late September and is dependent upon weather and road conditions. NOTE: From July 4 - September 2, 2024, timed entry reservations are required to enter the Sunrise Corridor, which includes White River Picnic Area, between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm. 

Approximately 5.3 miles up the White River Road from the White River Entrance Station lies the White River Picnic Area. This picnic area features eight tables and eight grills dispersed throughout the picnic area. Picnic tables closest to the parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and the remaining picnic tables are along a dirt path leading to the Wonderland Trail trailhead. Most picnic tables are individually placed, accommodating groups of six each. A paved path at the west end of the parking lot provides wheelchair access to the restrooms and water faucets, however there are no designated accessible parking spaces. 

Like much of the area surrounding Mount Rainier, White River has had a long history of human use. Evidence indicates that native peoples have been visiting and using areas like this for at least 7,000 years. About 200 years ago, European Americans began coming to White River to mine for copper, gold, and silver. With unsuccessful mining prospects, the area became more suitable for recreation and in 1921, the concession Rainer National Park Company developed a campground at White River. Two years later, the park opened a smaller campground nearby, and by 1925 decided to expand and take over all operations of camping in the park. This meant that in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps was able to redevelop the now-public campground along with a designated picnic area. Today, the picnic area remains in use as a stopping point on the way to Sunrise, a destination for campers and hikers, and a gathering place for climbers and Wonderland Trail hikers. 

As you enjoy a picnic here, please be mindful of your impact to the landscape, wildlife, and other visitors. Trash cans are located near the west end of the parking lot for you to clean up and dispose of all waste. Never feed any wildlife or leave food unattended to avoid wild animals getting food that could make them sick or cause them to act aggressively. Please empty wastewater in sinks and deposit any solid food waste into trash cans. While there are grills throughout the picnic area, open fires are not allowed outside of the grills, and you must follow any fire restrictions in place. Pets must be on a leash, not more than six feet (1.8 meters) in length or in a crate/cage at all times. Pets are allowed along the road and paved sidewalks and may join you at your picnic at tables. Pets are not allowed on any trails in Mount Rainier National Park. Potable water is located near the restrooms. There are maintained paths to get to and between picnic tables. Stay within the established pathways to reduce impact on the forest floor. If you choose to play music, please be aware of volume out of respect for other visitors and wildlife.