Around the Valley: With Karen Huwe

School's out for summer, and it's time to take the family outdoors and go camping. The decision is where to go that is close by, considering the high gas prices. You can travel to the Little Goose Dam area or the Tucannon Lakes in about an hour. Both are good choices with a few things in common and different features to consider.

On the drive to your destination, you must be on the lookout for slow-moving animals crossing the road; cows near the dam and bighorn sheep in the Tucannon area. In both areas you will see deer, ducks, and birds. Elk, frogs, and turkeys are in the Tucannon, and pelicans are close to the dam. Barges and touring ships can also be seen near the dam. Camping above Little Goose Dam is free but there are limited spots. At the Tucannon area you need a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass and there are lots of camping options with at least seven campgrounds.

If fishing is on your agenda, the Snake River has a variety of fish. Catfish and bass are favorites for a fish fry. Rainbow trout, pan-size, and jumbos are stocked in the five Tucannon Lakes. When not fishing the Snake, you can take a little walk and see and hear birds, collect rocks, or look for unique pieces of driftwood. Boating, water skiing, swimming, or taking out the kayak or paddle board are fun water activities. At the Tucannon, you can walk around a couple of the lakes and likely see an eagle or an osprey dive for fish to carry back to their nest. Also, at the upper end of the Tucannon, you can ride ATVs up Meadow Creek trail or take a hike to Sheep Creek Falls.

No matter your choice, camping with the Snake River as your backdrop or the hills and trees of the Tucannon, you can't go wrong creating memories and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Don't forget to make Smores!