USACE reminds visitors to recreate responsibly at Illia Dunes, Granite Point

By Terry Murry on Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

POMEROY – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Walla Walla District, reminds visitors to recreate responsibly at Illia Dunes in Garfield County and Granite Point in Whitman County. The two sites are located on the Snake River about six miles upstream of Lower Granite Lock and Dam, which is about 22 miles south of Colfax.

This area is a popular end-of-summer gathering place for college students, but in recent years trash has been left behind creating health and safety hazards.

Since May 2022, there has been a permanent alcohol ban in effect at the Granite Point Recreation Site. According to the USACE, this change is designed to enhance public safety and increase the overall recreational quality of the site.

Parking is restricted to USACE parking lots only. No parking is allowed on Almota Ferry Road near Illia Dunes or Wawawai Road near Granite Point. Violators are subject to ticketing and/or towing and impoundment.

Photo of Illia Dunes via USACE