The park is a salmon and steelhead spawning grounds. It is also the site of the "Mashel Massacre" during the 1856 Indian War.
Geologic remains provide natural bird nesting sites for cliff swallows and other birds.
There are also spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually River Gorge. The park also features fishing, rafting, hiking, bird watching, picnicking, and mountain biking.
The Washington State Parks system includes more than 125 developed parks and covers about a quarter million acres.