Fort Columbia State Park

Fort Columbia State Park is a former military installation covering about 593 acres along the Columbia River, with historic structures, wooded trails, and waterfront access. The site preserves original military buildings and maintains paths through forested areas.

The fort was established in 1896 to defend the Columbia River mouth and served as an active military base during World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. It closed in 1947 and was later converted into a state park.

The Commanding Officer's House displays period furnishings and exhibits about military families who stationed here. You can see how daily life looked for people living at this remote fort.

The park requires a Discover Pass for vehicle access and offers picnic tables and interpretive trails to explore. Sturdy shoes work well since paths go through wooded and uneven areas.

The fort includes over 1 mile (2 km) of Columbia River shoreline with access to a varied waterfront landscape. This extended waterfront allows visitors to see different habitats along the river.

Location: Pacific County

Operator: Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission

Part of: Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks

Website: https://parks.wa.gov/506/Fort-Columbia

GPS coordinates: 46.26010,-123.91876

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41