Attractions and Places To See in Fort Stevens State Park - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see in Fort Stevens State Park include a diverse range of historical sites and natural features within its 4,300 acres at the mouth of the Columbia River. The park served as a military installation for over 80 years, guarding the Columbia River. Visitors can explore a freshwater lake, extensive beaches, and a network of trails. It offers a blend of cultural significance and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see in Fort Stevens State Park
- The most popular attractions is Peter Iredale Shipwreck, a man-made monument that features the skeletal remains of a 1906 sailing ship on Clatsop Beach. This shipwreck is considered one of the most accessible and long-lasting in the world.
- Another must-see spot is Fort Stevens State Park, a historical site with a rich military history. Visitors can explore massive concrete bunkers and other old structures from its time as a vital installation guarding the Columbia River.
- Visitors also love Columbia River South Jetty Observation Tower, a viewpoint offering ocean views. This tower provides a vantage point to watch waves and observe wildlife.
- Fort Stevens State Park is known for its historical sites, natural features, and recreational opportunities. The park offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including military batteries, beaches, and trails.
- The attractions in Fort Stevens State Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 upvotes and 4 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Peter Iredale Shipwreck
Highlight • Monument
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Fort Stevens State Park
Highlight • Historical Site
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Battery Russell
Highlight • Historical Site
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Columbia River South Jetty Observation Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
Be sure to keep off the Jetty heading west from this point. It's dangerous and often has heavy equipment working on it. The Jetty extending East/South of this point to the beach is fine to walk on.
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Columbia Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Tips from the Community
The tower's incredible vantage point is a chance to experience the captivating beauty of the Pacific Ocean and Columbia River. While you're here, please note that the south jetty beyond this point is temporarily closed for safety reasons due to ongoing repairs.
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This beautiful stretch of beach is a fantastic place for a run while soaking in the views of the Pacific Ocean. As you jog along the coastline, you will likely encounter many families enjoying a picnic, kite flying or tossing around a Frisbee.
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Fort Stevens State Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive 4,300-acre park boasts a rich military history, having once been a vital installation that guarded the entrance of the Columbia River. This beautiful park has a lot to explore, including excellent trails for multiple running routes, a freshwater lake, beaches, dunes, a museum and a fascinating historic shipwreck.
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Peter Iredale was a four-masted steel barque that ran ashore on the Oregon coast on October 25, 1906, en route to the Columbia River. She was abandoned on Clatsop Spit near Fort Stevens in Warrenton, about four miles south of the Columbia River canal.
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Fort Stevens State Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive 4,300-acre park boasts a rich military history, having once been a vital installation that guarded the entrance of the Columbia River. This beautiful park has a lot to explore, including excellent hiking and bike-friendly trails, a freshwater lake, beaches, dunes, a museum and a fascinating historic shipwreck.
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The Peter Iredale shipwreck is a haunting reminder of the perils of the sea. This four-masted steel ship met its untimely end in 1906 when it ran aground along the Oregon coast. Over a century later, the ship's remains are still visible, slowly succumbing to the elements. During low tide, you can walk up to the wreckage and take fantastic photos of its eerie beauty while pondering the circumstances leading to its demise.
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Battery Russell was built at the beginning of the 20th century. It was named after Bvt. Major Russell, who died during the Civil War, and the fort served as a defense system until the end of the Second World War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore within Fort Stevens State Park?
Fort Stevens State Park boasts a rich military history, serving as a vital installation from the Civil War through World War II. You can explore massive concrete bunkers and other old structures at the main Fort Stevens State Park site. Don't miss Battery Russell, a fascinating piece of history with its 10-inch rifles, and the military museum which offers displays, old photographs, and weapons.
Where can I see the Peter Iredale Shipwreck?
The skeletal remains of the 1906 sailing ship Peter Iredale Shipwreck are a prominent sight on Clatsop Beach. It's considered one of the most accessible and long-lasting shipwrecks in the world, and you can often walk right up to it during low tide.
Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park?
Yes, Fort Stevens State Park offers several spots for wildlife viewing. From the Columbia River South Jetty Observation Tower, you can spot seals year-round and even whales during their winter migration. Around Coffenbury Lake, visitors might see heron and elk.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do at Coffenbury Lake?
Coffenbury Lake is a 56-acre freshwater lake perfect for various activities. You can enjoy swimming, fishing (it's stocked with trout), boating (with a 10 mph speed limit for motorized boats), paddle-boarding, kayaking, and picnicking. A flat, easy 2.5-mile loop trail encircles the lake, ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.
What are the best hiking trails in Fort Stevens State Park?
The park features an extensive network of trails. For an easy hike, consider the 2.5-mile loop around Coffenbury Lake or the 1.3-mile Kestrel Dune Trail which leads to the Peter Iredale Shipwreck. The park also marks the northernmost trailhead for the Oregon Coast Trail. You can find more easy hiking options in the area by exploring the Easy hikes in Fort Stevens State Park guide.
Are there bike trails available in Fort Stevens State Park?
Absolutely! Fort Stevens State Park offers nine miles of paved bicycle trails. These trails are generally easy and provide a great way to explore the park's diverse landscapes. For more cycling routes, check out the Cycling in Fort Stevens State Park guide.
Is Fort Stevens State Park family-friendly?
Yes, Fort Stevens State Park is very family-friendly. Many attractions, including the Peter Iredale Shipwreck, Battery Russell, and Columbia Beach, are suitable for all ages. Coffenbury Lake offers swimming and boating, and there are numerous easy trails for walking and biking, making it an ideal destination for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Fort Stevens State Park?
Fort Stevens State Park is enjoyable year-round, but the summer months offer the warmest weather for beach activities, swimming in Coffenbury Lake, and ranger-guided kayak tours. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Winter is ideal for whale watching from the South Jetty.
Are dogs allowed in Fort Stevens State Park?
Yes, Fort Stevens State Park is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on most trails and beaches, including Columbia Beach, provided they are on a leash. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
What are the parking and day-use fees at Fort Stevens State Park?
A day-use permit is required for parking at Fort Stevens State Park. You can purchase a 24-hour permit at the park or use an annual Oregon State Parks Pass. For the most current information on fees and permits, it's best to check the official Oregon State Parks website: Oregon State Parks.
What can I expect to see from the Columbia River South Jetty Observation Tower?
The Columbia River South Jetty Observation Tower provides unparalleled ocean views. From this vantage point, you can watch waves crash against the jetty, observe marine life like seals, and during migration seasons, even spot whales. It's also the northern terminus of the Oregon Coast Trail.
Are there any unique recreational activities in the park besides hiking and biking?
Beyond hiking and biking, Fort Stevens State Park offers disc golf at the Columbia Shore Disc Golf Course. Coffenbury Lake also provides opportunities for fishing, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. The expansive beaches are perfect for beachcombing and kite flying.
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