Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is a protected site along the Columbia River that encompasses a reconstructed winter settlement and spans extensive natural areas. The park features dense rainforests, coastal walking trails, and meadowland across its territory.

A winter camp at this location sheltered an exploration expedition during their westward journey in the early 1800s. This site marks a significant point in early European exploration and settlement of the Pacific Northwest region.

Park staff in period clothing demonstrate traditional skills such as flintlock rifle shooting, leather preparation, and candle making during the warmer months. These demonstrations help visitors understand how people lived and worked during the early 1800s exploration era.

The site is easy to access with clearly marked trails of varying lengths for different fitness levels. Plan several hours to explore the full property, as multiple routes wind through forest and coastal areas with different terrain.

A walking trail connects the historical site directly to the Pacific Ocean, passing through changing landscapes from forest to shoreline. This path reveals how early explorers could travel both inland and toward the sea from their winter base.

Location: Clatsop County

Location: Pacific County

Inception: July 19, 2004

Operator: National Park Service

Part of: Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks

Address: 92343 Fort Clatsop Road, Astoria, OR 97103

Website: https://nps.gov/lewi

GPS coordinates: 46.13361,-123.87750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56