We were surprised to read the recent Columbian article “ State park surprises ,” which included Columbia Hills Historical State Park , where we had an ill-fated camping trip.

Last August we took our 10-year-old grandson, Theo, camping at Columbia Hills. We had gone there before and had a wonderful time camping in our motorhome. But we’ve sold the motorhome, so this trip relied on tents, air mattresses and the pioneer spirit. We planned to enjoy all the labors of more primitive camping. It was 98 degrees on a Tuesday when we headed out. We couldn’t wait to swim in Horsethief Lake and paddle around an inflatable raft with Theo.

But, lo, as we turned off Lewis and Clark Highway into the campground entrance, an official orange and yellow sign announced, “CAUTION: TOXIC ALGAE in Horsethie

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