Fort Stevens State Park, Military heritage site and state park in Warrenton, US
Fort Stevens State Park sits at the mouth of the Columbia River and combines vast woodlands, freshwater lakes, and sandy beaches with old military structures. The property spreads across several thousand acres with distinct zones ranging from thick forest to open coastal areas.
The fort was established in 1863 to guard the Columbia River and remained a key defense post for over 80 years. It experienced a rare moment during World War II when it came under attack from across the ocean, before being deactivated in 1947.
The park preserves layers of the region's past through its structures and landscapes. Visitors encounter remnants of military life that shaped how people understood coastal protection and settlement in this remote area.
The park offers camping facilities with different levels of accommodation and year-round lodging options in cabins and yurts. Visitors should expect changeable coastal weather and bring sturdy footwear, as trails pass through forest and along beaches.
The wreck of the steel sailing ship Peter Iredale sits visible on the beach and marks one of many vessels that failed to navigate these dangerous waters. The ship has been part of the landscape for over 100 years and shows how the elements gradually transform metal.
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