Exploring Fort Clatsop: A Family Adventure Through Lewis & Clark History
Discovering Fort Clatsop: A Journey Back in Time with Lewis & Clark
Our family’s full-time RV travels recently brought us to Fort Clatsop, part of the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park near Astoria, Oregon. This historic site marks the location where the Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805–1806 after reaching the Pacific Ocean. It’s not just a replica of the original fort—it’s a hands-on experience that brings American history to life in an engaging and meaningful way, especially for kids.
Fort Clatsop
Attending Ranger Talks: Birds & Expedition History
One of the highlights of our visit was attending two fantastic ranger-led programs. The first focused on the birds documented during the Lewis & Clark expedition, many of which were unknown to science at the time. The ranger passionately explained how the team identified and recorded dozens of bird species during their journey across uncharted terrain. This was a great educational opportunity not only for the kids, but for us adults too!
The second ranger talk dove into the history of Fort Clatsop itself and the incredible endurance, ingenuity, and teamwork that defined the Corps of Discovery. From building the fort in rainy winter conditions to interactions with local tribes and preparing for the return journey east, the story was presented in a way that truly made the expedition feel alive.
Earning Junior Ranger Badges at Fort Clatsop
No visit to a National Park would be complete for our family without participating in the Junior Ranger program. The kids eagerly completed their activity booklets, which included scavenger hunts, history-based games, and bird identification exercises.
After proudly reciting the Junior Ranger pledge, they each received their official Fort Clatsop Junior Ranger badges—a meaningful keepsake from a memorable experience.
What to See and Do at Fort Clatsop
In addition to the ranger talks and the reconstructed fort itself, here are a few more highlights to check out:
Visitor Center – Interactive exhibits about the expedition, native wildlife, and Native American tribes.
Replica Fort – Walk through the reconstructed fort where Lewis & Clark and their team lived.
Trails – Several scenic trails run through the lush forests and wetlands surrounding the site.
Living History Demonstrations – Seasonal reenactments with costumed interpreters.
Tips for Visiting Fort Clatsop
Arrive early to catch ranger programs (times vary by season).
Bring rain gear—this part of Oregon is famously wet!
Don’t skip the visitor center exhibits—they’re well-designed and educational.
Kids of all ages will enjoy the hands-on learning opportunities through the Junior Ranger program.
Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the site and trails.
Final Thoughts: Why Fort Clatsop is a Must-Visit Stop for Families
Fort Clatsop is more than just a historical replica—it's an immersive, family-friendly destination that offers a deep dive into one of America’s most iconic explorations. Whether you're roadschooling, RVing full-time, or simply exploring the Oregon coast, this park is a meaningful and educational stop.
For families like ours who value hands-on learning and real-world experiences, Fort Clatsop delivers. It’s one of those special places where history, nature, and curiosity come together.
Planning a visit to the Pacific Northwest?
Be sure to check out our other blog posts featuring Oregon Coast adventures, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly travel tips across the USA.
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