The visitor center at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, specifically Fort Clatsop, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and from November to June 22nd. From late June to Labor Day, it stays open until 6 p.m.
The entrance fee at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is $10 per person for those 16 and older, valid for 7 days. Children 15 and under enter free. An annual pass, the America the Beautiful pass, is $80 and covers all US National Park sites for a year. An annual Oregon Coast Passport is also available for $35, covering entry to multiple coastal sites.
From Astoria, take Highway 101 south across Youngs Bay Bridge, then left on Marlin Ave, and right on Fort Clatsop Road to immerse yourself in historic splendor and coastal beauty.
Parking available for cars, RVs, and motorcycles at various sites. Dismal Nitch offers 8-hour parking for cars and RVs, no overnight stays. Other sites have time-limited parking; no overnight parking permitted. Fees apply for day use and parking.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, sprawling along 40 miles of the rugged Pacific coast in Oregon and Washington, is a tapestry of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historic significance. This park, a joint venture between the National Park Service and the states of Oregon and Washington, encircles the mouth of the Columbia River, offering stunning vistas and abundant recreational opportunities.
Hike the windswept trails of the cape and sandy beaches where the Corps of Discovery first stood at the edge of the Pacific. Gaze out at the mighty Columbia River, where Lewis and Clark took a historic vote to decide their winter quarters. The park’s 12 individual sites, including the replica of Fort Clatsop, where the explorers camped during the winter of 1805-1806, provide a deep dive into the region’s history.
The landscape is alive with the remnants of ancient forests and the resilient Chinook and Clatsop Indian cultures that have thrived here for thousands of years. Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vibrant colors, from the blooming wildflowers of spring to the autumn hues of the deciduous trees.
During your visit, explore the Salt Works, where the Corps of Discovery produced vital salt for their journey home. In the summer, enjoy ranger-led programs and interpretive walks that bring the park’s history to life. For the adventurous, local outfitters offer kayaking and canoeing tours along the Columbia River, providing a unique perspective on the park’s biodiversity, including salmon and sturgeon.
Nearby, the charming town of Astoria, with its boutique shops and artisan eateries, offers a delightful contrast to the wilderness. Don’t miss the Clatsop County Historical Society Museum for a deeper dive into the region’s history and culture. As the sun sets over the Pacific, the park transforms into a serene and awe-inspiring destination, a place where the boundaries between nature, history, and adventure blur seamlessly.
- Area (mi²)
- 5.2
- Annual visitors
- 293 356
- Established year
- 1958
Top 3 Facts about Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
The Corps of Discovery traveled 4,100 miles from St. Louis to the mouth of the Columbia River, establishing Station Camp in November 1805 after an arduous journey through mostly indigenous untouched terrain. This campsite marks a significant milestone in their historic expedition.
In this verdant coastal enclave, bald eagles soar overhead, while harbor seals and orcas glide through the waters. The shores are dotted with vibrant Oregon grape and evergreen huckleberry, their electric yellow blooms and sweet berries a delight. Vine maples add a serene canopy, and the streams are teeming with Pacific salmon and trout. This is a haven where nature’s splendor is on full display, inviting you to immerse yourself in its untamed beauty.
Witness the dramatic Columbia River Gorge, carved by cataclysmic Missoula floods and shaped by the Columbia River Basalt Group’s dark, columnar formations. The gorge’s walls rise sharply, with waterfalls cascading down rugged cliffs, and the river’s turbulent waters glide through a landscape sculpted by millennia of tectonic activity and volcanic flows. Here, giant Sitka spruces stand tall, their trunks up to 36 feet in circumference, amidst extensive wetlands and the remnants of ancient river channels.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 3-day trip to explore extensive trails and historic sites. Drive via U.S. Route 101, park at designated areas, and visit the visitor center first. Anticipate rocky terrain, rest often, and pack meals, especially during peak summer seasons like the annual Fort Clatsop Living History Event.
Pack Appropriately
Pack waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket, and layers for unpredictable weather. Bring a multi-tool, dry bag, and a first aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleep system, and hydration gear. Check the tide schedule if visiting the coast.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, and never feed them. Stay on trails, dispose of trash properly, and respect natural habitats to preserve the unique flora and fauna. Be mindful of seasonal changes and wildlife behaviors.Leave the area as you found it.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast water, and check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 541-086-3284. Be aware of your surroundings and follow all park signs and advisories.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and blooming wildflowers set the stage for an immersive outdoor experience. Join the Nature Matters talk series in April and May, and enjoy kayak and canoe tours. Ideal for spotting wildlife and exploring trails, spring is a perfect time to visit before the summer crowds.
Summer brings warm temperatures (60s-80s°F) and mild weather, ideal for hiking and canoeing. Join living history programs, ranger-led hikes, and the Nature Matters talk series. Don’t miss the July 7 medical issues talk by Dr. David Peck. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking immersive historical experiences.
Experience the crisp autumn air, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s, as the foliage transforms along the Columbia River. Attend the annual Fort Clatsop living history days in October, immersing yourself in historical reenactments and vibrant fall colors. Ideal for a serene and culturally rich getaway.
Experience the serene winter landscape from September to June, with temperatures in the 40s Fahrenheit. Cool and wet conditions, occasional snowfall, and fewer crowds make for a tranquil and immersive historical exploration. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, off-season adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lewis and Clark National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Portland takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, covering a distance of 117 miles.
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The Fort to Sea trail is a family-friendly option, spanning over 6 miles one way with varying terrain, allowing kids to follow the path the Lewis and Clark Expedition took from Fort Clatsop to Sunset Beach. This trail showcases several different biomes and offers a scenic walk from the reconstructed fort to the canoe landing on the Netul River. It is part of the 14.5 miles of trails in the park that mimic the Corps of Discovery’s routes.
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Dogs are not allowed inside public buildings, including the fort replica rooms and the Visitor Center, except for service dogs and dogs working as volunteers. They can, however, be in the uncarpeted areas by the bathrooms and in outdoor areas like trails and the parade grounds while on a leash.
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You cannot park an RV, camper, or motorhome within the park. However, you can find nearby camping options in the surrounding communities or through private landowners offering campsites.
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Visit the replica of Fort Clatsop, where Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805-1806, and enjoy ranger programs with costumed demonstrations. Hike 14.5 miles of trails that follow the routes of the Corps of Discovery and spot local wildlife. Participate in free kayak and canoe tours, or complete activities to earn a Junior Ranger badge.