Fort Columbia State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Columbia State Park |
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Historic wood-frame buildings
at Fort Columbia State Park |
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 Fort Columbia State Park
Location in Washington (state)
Fort Columbia State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Pacific County, Washington, United States |
| Area | 618 acres (250 ha) |
| Elevation | 709 ft (216 m) |
| Established | 1950 |
| Operator | Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission |
| Website | Fort Columbia State Park |
Fort Columbia State Park is a really cool place to visit in Washington state! It's a public park and a historic site located right at the mouth of the Columbia River. This park used to be a military fort called Fort Columbia. It sits on Chinook Point near Chinook.
Today, you can explore twelve old wooden buildings from the fort complex. There's also a special center to learn about history and lots of hiking trails. The park covers 618 acres and is built over a hidden tunnel for U.S. Route 101. It's a great spot to learn about the past and enjoy nature.
Contents
The Story of Fort Columbia
Building a River Defense
Fort Columbia was built a long time ago, between 1896 and 1904. Its main job was to help protect the Columbia River. The fort was placed on Chinook Point as part of a "triangle of fire" defense plan. This plan included two other forts: Fort Canby and Fort Stevens. Together, these three forts could defend the river from enemy ships.
From Fort to Park
After World War II ended, Fort Columbia was no longer needed as a military base. In 1950, it was given to the state of Washington. That's when it became Fort Columbia State Park, a place for everyone to visit and learn.
In the 1960s and 1970s, one part of the fort, called Battery 246, had a special role. It was set up as an emergency operating center for the government. It was one of a few places the governor could use in case of a big emergency. Later, in 1993, the park received two large 6-inch guns. These guns were moved to Battery 246 from an old fort in Canada.
What You Can See and Do
Exploring the Interpretive Center
The Fort Columbia Interpretive Center is a great place to start your visit. It has exhibits that tell the story of the fort. You can learn about early explorers and pioneers who lived in the area. It's like stepping back in time to see how things used to be.
Historic Buildings and Guns
You can also visit the Commanding Officers Quarters. This building is decorated with furniture from the early 1900s. It shows what life was like for the fort's leaders. The park grounds also feature three artillery batteries and two large coastal artillery guns. These are impressive to see up close!
Hiking and Picnics
If you love being outdoors, Fort Columbia State Park has plenty to offer. There are picnicking areas where you can enjoy a meal with your family or friends. You'll also find 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind their way up Scarborough Hill, offering great views.
Stay in a Historic Home
The park even has two historic homes, the Steward's House and Scarborough House, that you can rent. Imagine staying overnight in a place with so much history!
Part of a Bigger Story
Fort Columbia State Park is also part of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. This means it's connected to the famous journey of explorers Lewis and Clark. It's one of several parks in Washington and Oregon that tell their story.
