Fort Clatsop
Step into the shoes of Lewis and Clark at Fort Clatsop, their winter encampment, offering a vivid historical and natural exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Fort Clatsop
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the shoes of Lewis and Clark at Fort Clatsop, their winter encampment, offering a vivid historical and natural exploration.
"A must-visit gem where history meets nature, feel like you've stepped back in time."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Ranger Programs
Rangers in period clothing offer engaging demonstrations and stories. :bustsinsilhouette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reconstructed Fort
Main Fort Area
Step back in time in this meticulously rebuilt log fort, the winter home of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery.
Visitor Center Exhibits
Visitor Center
Engaging displays and artifacts bring the Corps of Discovery's journey and winter encampment to life.
Netul River Canoe Landing
Trail to Netul River
Walk the scenic trail to the Netul River, where the Corps of Discovery launched their canoes.
Old-Growth Forest Trails
Various Trails
Explore lush, moss-draped forests on trails that offer a glimpse into the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Pass Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Ranger Programs
Rangers in period clothing offer engaging demonstrations and stories. :bustsinsilhouette:
Bring Your National Park Pass
Save on admission with your America the Beautiful Pass. :ticket:
Explore the Trails
Don't miss the walk to the Netul River and through the forest. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Ranger Programs
Rangers in period clothing offer engaging demonstrations and stories. :bustsinsilhouette:
Bring Your National Park Pass
Save on admission with your America the Beautiful Pass. :ticket:
Explore the Trails
Don't miss the walk to the Netul River and through the forest. :hiking_boot:
Wildlife Sightings Possible
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially near the mudflats. :raccoon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fort Clatsop for its historical accuracy and immersive experience, offering a vivid glimpse into the lives of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery. The well-done reconstruction and engaging ranger programs are highlights, complemented by the beautiful natural setting and accessible trails. Some note that the trails can be uneven, requiring careful footing.
"A replica fort that well mimics the original fort where Lewis and Clark wintered several hundred years ago. An accurate representation of the area and living conditions of the day. Path trails are slightly uneven so watch your footing. Nearby you can find the original river pilings for the docks established by the expedition and one or two native canoes carved out of tree trunks. Although I have lived in a Racoon populated area for decades, the nearby mudflats close to he river pilings was where I saw my first ever Racoon, so wildlife sightings are also possible."
Graham Tranter
"Relatively small park but very worth the visit for the historical significance. The fort reconstruction was well done, giving a good idea of what life must have been like for the Corpse of Discovery. A number of trails to wander, with various tree species.
Excellent visitors center too."
Kevin Vickery
"92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103
If you love history, adventure, or just the sheer magic of the Pacific Northwest, Fort Clatsop is an absolute must-visit. This is where Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery hunkered down for the winter of 1805-1806, enduring months of relentless rain after their grueling journey to the Pacific. And let me tell you, standing where these explorers once stood hits different when you’re basking in rare January sunshine, which, lucky for me, was the case!
The replica fort itself is incredibly well done, giving you a real sense of what life was like for the expedition. You can almost hear the crackle of the fire, feel the damp chill they must have endured, and imagine Sacagawea and her baby navigating the muddy grounds. Park rangers, dressed in period clothing, bring history to life with fascinating stories and demonstrations.
But beyond the history, the setting is breathtaking. Towering trees, lush moss draping over branches like nature’s own artwork, and trails that lead you right into the heart of the old-growth forest. I could hear the distant call of birds, the rustling of leaves, and for a moment, it felt like I had stepped back in time.
If you’re in Astoria, don’t skip this gem. It’s a place where history meets nature, and for just a moment, you can feel what it was like to stand at the edge of the unknown, just like Lewis and Clark did over 200 years ago."
Story Flower
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Clatsop is conveniently located just south of Astoria, Oregon. You can reach it by car via US-101 S. The drive is short, typically around 10-15 minutes. Parking is available at the visitor center.
Public transportation options directly to Fort Clatsop are limited. It's best to have a car for easy access, especially if you plan to explore other historical sites in the Astoria area.
The Fort Clatsop location is 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103. It's part of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.
Yes, Fort Clatsop is part of a larger network of Lewis and Clark sites. Astoria itself has historical significance, and the surrounding Oregon Coast offers many related points of interest.
While not a primary route, biking is possible if you are comfortable with road cycling on US-101. The park itself has trails suitable for walking and exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Clatsop is part of the National Park Service. An entrance fee is required unless you have a valid National Park Pass (like the America the Beautiful Pass), which grants free admission.
Fort Clatsop hours typically align with the visitor center's operating schedule, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours before your visit.
Advance booking is generally not required for Fort Clatsop. You can purchase your entrance pass upon arrival, or if you have a National Park Pass, you can enter directly.
Fort Clatsop is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, managed by the National Park Service, not a state park.
Children are often free, and National Park Passes cover admission for the pass holder and accompanying guests. Check the NPS website for any specific senior or military discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the reconstructed fort, visit the visitor center exhibits, walk the trails to the Netul River and through the forest, and attend ranger programs.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the fort, visitor center, and taking a short hike. You could easily spend longer if you enjoy longer walks or attending multiple ranger programs.
The trails vary in difficulty. The path to the canoe landing is generally easy, but some forest trails can be uneven and muddy. Wear appropriate footwear.
Fort Clatsop is a replica of the original winter encampment. The original fort has long since deteriorated, but the replica provides an accurate representation.
Yes, park rangers often conduct historical demonstrations, including period crafts and talks, bringing the history of the Corps of Discovery to life.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the reconstructed fort from various angles, the moss-draped trees along the trails, and the serene Netul River. The visitor center also has interesting displays.
Photography is generally allowed inside the reconstructed fort, but be respectful of other visitors and any ongoing ranger programs.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots, especially in the forest. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks and Historical Sites to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the official NPS regulations for Fort Clatsop.
A versatile camera with a good lens for landscapes and close-ups is ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for the fort and forest, while a telephoto can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The trails are generally manageable for most children, especially the path to the Netul River. Encourage kids to look for wildlife and imagine the challenges Lewis and Clark faced. Remember that children often get free admission.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the details in the exhibits and listen to the ranger talks. Consider exploring the nearby historical markers and other related sites in Astoria to gain a comprehensive understanding of the region's historical significance.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
+1Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see native flora and fauna. The trails offer a refreshing contrast to the historical focus, making for a well-rounded visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lewis and Clark Expedition at Fort Clatsop
+1The fort itself was a substantial structure, consisting of two large, interconnected log cabins designed to house the 34 members of the expedition, including Sacagawea and her infant son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau. Here, they documented flora and fauna, mapped the surrounding territory, and prepared for their long journey back east. The park's exhibits and ranger programs vividly recount these experiences, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of their mission.
+1Visiting Fort Clatsop is more than just seeing a historical site; it's an opportunity to understand the resilience and determination of these early American explorers. The surrounding natural landscape, largely unchanged since their time, further enhances this immersive historical experience.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Fort Clatsop
+1The Netul River plays a central role in the park's landscape and history. A scenic walk leads to the riverbank, where visitors can see the approximate location of the original canoe landing. This area provides a tranquil setting and a reminder of the expedition's reliance on waterways for travel. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the mudflats near the river are known to be habitats for various species.
Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, the trails at Fort Clatsop offer a rewarding experience. The combination of historical interpretation and natural beauty makes it a unique destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
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