Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is a significant historical site located along the Pacific coast in Washington and Oregon, commemorating the historic expedition of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. The park covers a vast area, with its primary location situated at Fort Clatsop in Oregon, where the explorers spent the winter of 1805-1806.

The historical background of Lewis and Clark National Historical Park dates back to the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804-1806, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to explore and chart the newly acquired western territories of the United States. The expedition aimed to establish trade routes, document natural resources, and seek a possible water route to the Pacific Ocean. The explorers faced numerous challenges and hardships, but also made significant scientific discoveries during their journey.

Visitors to the park can explore the replica of Fort Clatsop, which provides a glimpse into the living conditions experienced by Lewis and Clark and their companions during their winter stay. The fort features exhibits, guided tours, and interpretive programs that educate visitors about the daily life of the expedition members. There is also a visitor center that offers a wealth of information, artifacts, and exhibits related to the exploration.

In addition to the historically significant site at Fort Clatsop, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park encompasses other areas of interest along the Lewis and Clark River. These areas offer recreational activities like hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and camping. The park features numerous trails, including the Fort to Sea Trail, which offers a scenic route through forests and dunes.

For those interested in more outdoor adventures, nearby attractions include Cape Disappointment State Park and the Long Beach Peninsula, where visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning ocean views. The park is also close to historic towns such as Astoria, Oregon, and Ilwaco, Washington, where visitors can explore museums and learn more about the region's history.

Overall, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park provides an immersive experience into the iconic expedition that helped shape the history of the United States. From its historically accurate replica of Fort Clatsop to its numerous recreational opportunities, the park offers something for history enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and nature lovers alike.

Located in the beautiful state of Oregon, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is nestled on the stunning Pacific coastline. This park spans across multiple locations, including Fort Clatsop, Cape Disappointment State Park, and other nearby areas. Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, where it meets the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the park offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and pristine beaches. With its diverse landscape encompassing towering cliffs, dense forests, and expansive sand dunes, this geographical location provides visitors with a unique experience that combines the majesty of both land and sea. Whether exploring the historic trails followed by the famous explorers or simply appreciating the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park's geographical location is truly a sight to behold.

Address & Contact

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
92343 Fort Clatsop Road
Astoria, OR 97103
Driving Directions
Phone: 5038612471
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Lewis and Clark National Historical Park would be in July and August. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 67°F to 69°F, with average minimum temperatures around 54°F. The average monthly precipitation is low, at approximately 0.8 inches. Additionally, these months boast the highest average visitor counts, indicating a lively park atmosphere without overwhelming crowds. It provides the ideal combination of pleasant weather for outdoor activities and a comfortable visitor experience.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Lewis and Clark National Historical Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Hiking Front-Country Hiking Fishing Hunting and Gathering Paddling Kayaking Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration Gathering and Foraging

Topics

Learn about these topics at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: Animals Birds Industry Logging and Timber Cutting Fish River and Riparian Trails Water Trails Explorers and Expeditions Military Schools and Education Forests and Woodlands Wetlands Forts Infantry and Militia Marshes Elk Enslavement Rainforest

Visitor Centers

Fort Clatsop Visitor Center

The Fort Clatsop Visitor Center is the first stopping spot for your visit to Fort Clatsop. The rangers inside are able to provide brochures and hiking trail maps of our site and the local area as well as take entrance fees or park passes. An exhibit hall detailing the Corps of Discoveries journey and the local Indigenous people can be found inside alongside a movie theater. The LCNHPA's Bookstore is found inside, offering a wide selection of historical books and gifts.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Clatsop Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Comfort Suites Columbia River

A stay at Comfort Suites Columbia River places you in the heart of Astoria, within a 10-minute walk of Uppertown Firefighters Museum and The Children's Museum and Hanthorn Cannery Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3420 Leif Erickson Dr, Astoria, Oregon 97103
Web: Link

Columbia Inn

With a stay at Columbia Inn in Astoria, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Oregon Film Museum and Flavel House Museum. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 495 Marine Dr, Astoria, Oregon 97103
Web: Link

Rose River Inn Bed and Breakfast

With a stay at Rose River Inn Bed and Breakfast in Astoria, you'll be in the historical district, just a 3-minute walk from Heritage Museum and 6 minutes by foot from Columbia River Maritime Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1510 Franklin Avenue, Astoria, Oregon 97103
Web: Link

Estuary Cottage

With a stay at this cottage in Seaside, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Columbia Beach and Seaside Factory Outlet Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2540 Mason St, Seaside, Oregon 97138
Web: Link

Kid-friendly 4br - Walk To Beach 4 Bedroom Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Seaside, you'll be next to a golf course, just a 3-minute walk from Columbia Beach and 12 minutes by foot from Seaside Museum and Historical Society. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 416 17th Avenue, Seaside, Oregon 97138
Web: Link

South Jetty Inn

Located in Hammond, South Jetty Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Fort Stevens State Park and Battery Russell. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 984 Pacific Dr, Hammond, Oregon 97121
Web: Link

580 Russell Place

With a stay at this vacation home in Hammond, you'll be steps from Fort Stevens State Park and a 4-minute drive from Columbia River. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 580 Russell Place, US, Hammond, Oregon 97121
Web: Link

226 Ridge Dr

With a stay at this vacation home in Gearhart, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gearhart Golf Links and Columbia Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 226 RIDGE Dr,, Gearhart, Oregon 97138
Web: Link

Slack Tide

With a stay at this vacation home in Seaside, you'll be next to a golf course, just a 2-minute walk from Columbia Beach and 12 minutes by foot from Seaside Museum and Historical Society. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1711 N Franklin St, US, Seaside, Oregon 97138
Web: Link

Pacific Way Cottage

With a stay at this vacation home in Gearhart, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Gearhart Golf Links and Columbia Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 95 Summit Ct, US, Gearhart, Oregon 97138
Web: Link