State & National Parks

The visitor center includes a replica of Fort Clatsop similar to the one built by the explorers, an interpretive center offering an exhibit hall, gift shop and two films. The center features ranger-led programs as well as restrooms and a picnic area. The park is open every day of the year except December 25th.

Learn more about the hours of operations and when to visit, here

Fort Stevens was the primary military defense installation in the three fort Harbor Defense System at the mouth of the Columbia River. Today, Fort Stevens has grown into a 4,200-acre park offering an exploration of history, nature, and recreational opportunities.

Camping, beachcombing, freshwater lake swimming, trails, wildlife viewing, a historic shipwreck, and a historic military area make Fort Stevens a uniquely diversified park. A network of nine miles of bicycle trails and six miles of hiking trails are excellent. Not to mention Coffenbury Lake has two swimming areas, a picnic area, restrooms, and a boat ramp (10 mph boating speed limit).

During the summer, tour a rare 90-year old underground gun battery that served as a World War II command center, and take a truck tour of the fortifications spanning the Spanish-American War and World War II (tour available at a nominal charge).