Steptoe Butte State Park

High above the Palouse Hills on the southeastern edge of Washington, Steptoe Butte offers unparalleled views of a truly unique landscape. The warm quartzite bluff stands out against soft hills of green and mauve, an occasional barn dotting the landscape. Colors seem to shift and change in the light.   The butte contains some of the oldest rock in the Pacific Northwest, and it marks the border of the original North American Continent.  Steptoe has, over time, been a wagon road, a hotel site and an observatory location. In addition to inspiring vistas, the 3,612-foot summit displays several interpretive panels that pay homage to its distinctive geology. This day-use park is a must-visit on a leisurely drive through Eastern Washington. Steptoe Butte is a 150-acre day-use park. Camping options for an eastern Washington road trip include Riverside, Field Springs and Lewis & Clark Trail state parks, all less than two hours away.