Fort Stevens State Park Tours and Activities

Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park
Fort Stevens State Park


See a century-old fort and enjoy the outdoor setting of this park at the very end of the Columbia River.

Established during the Civil War, the stronghold in what is now Fort Stevens State Park was one of three that protected the harbors at the outlet of the Columbia River. The fortress operated until after World War II. Visit the remains of military sites and explore the pretty natural setting. Stop at the ranger station, visitor center and museum for additional information.

Pick up a pamphlet to participate in a self-guided history scavenger hunt. Contact the Friends of Old Fort Stevens to see if any guided tours are available. I

nteresting sites from old times include the Battery Russell from the early 1900s and the South Jetty. Fort Stevens is an earthworks battery built near the end of the Civil War. Cannons in place for World War I were never called on to fire. The more modern guns readied for World War II also remained unfired, even during the fort’s 1942 attack from a Japanese submarine.

Bike 9 miles (15 kilometers) or hike 6 miles (10 kilometers) on trails through the park’s forest with views of dunes and wetlands. Ride around long, narrow Coffenbury Lake and stop to swim or have a picnic. Kayak and fish at two other lakes nearby.

Consider staying overnight at one of the many tent, yurt, cabin or RV sites. Watch for whales, seals, deer and snowy plovers here.

One park highlight is the wreck of the Peter Iredale. Head to the shoreline near the southern end of the park to see the rusting carcass of an English sailing ship that went aground in 1906 in this area of the ocean known as the Graveyard of the Pacific. All 27 crewmembers, including two stowaways, were rescued and taken care of at Fort Stevens. The wreck is approachable and very photogenic at low tide, especially at sunset.

Fort Stevens State Park is near Hammond, Oregon, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) west of Astoria. Travel to the park from central Astoria in about 20 minutes by car or bike in roughly 45 minutes. The park never closes. There are fees for parking or camping. Make campground reservations in advance.

Popular places to visit


Top Fort Stevens State Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

South Jetty Inn

South Jetty Inn

2.5 out of 5
984 Pacific Dr, Hammond, OR
South Jetty Inn
Hammond Home 2 Blocks to Marina & Columbia River!

Hammond Home 2 Blocks to Marina & Columbia River!

3 out of 5
Hammond
Hammond Home 2 Blocks to Marina & Columbia River!
Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!

Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!

3.5 out of 5
Hammond
Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!
Beautiful Water Views: Coastal Oregon Townhome!

Beautiful Water Views: Coastal Oregon Townhome!

3.5 out of 5
Hammond
Beautiful Water Views: Coastal Oregon Townhome!
Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!

Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!

Hammond
Balconies w/ Scenic River Views: Hammond Townhome!
Astoria Riverwalk Inn

Astoria Riverwalk Inn

2 out of 5
400 Industry Street, Astoria, OR
Astoria Riverwalk Inn
Motel 6 Astoria, OR

Motel 6 Astoria, OR

2 out of 5
288 W Marine Dr, Astoria, OR
Motel 6 Astoria, OR
Lloyd Hotel Astoria Bayfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

Lloyd Hotel Astoria Bayfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

2.5 out of 5
555 Hamburg Avenue, Astoria, OR
Lloyd Hotel Astoria Bayfront, Ascend Hotel Collection
Atomic Motel

Atomic Motel

2 out of 5
131 West Marine Drive, Astoria, OR
Atomic Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Fort Stevens State Park

At Fort Stevens State Park, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including biking along scenic trails, boating on the tranquil waters, and witnessing stunning sunsets. The park offers numerous recreational opportunities, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the area while engaging in various leisure activities. Whether you're cycling or simply relaxing, Fort Stevens is a fantastic destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

For shopping near Fort Stevens State Park, check out Turnaround Market, a local spot with city vibes just 20.9km away. If you're up for a drive, visit Seaside Carousel Mall and Seaside Antique Mall, both located 22.5km away, offering a mix of family-friendly shops and unique finds.

Recreation

Enjoy family-friendly fun at Astoria Aquatic Center, where you can swim and relax in a vibrant atmosphere. For a round of golf, head to Gearhart Golf Links, which boasts beautiful outdoor scenery. Finally, indulge in luxury at Astoria Golf & Country Club for a sophisticated golfing experience.

Adventure

Explore the Fort to Sea Trail, a scenic 9.7km hike offering stunning landscapes and a sense of adventure. For a more challenging trek, head to Angora Peak Trailhead, located 45.1km away, or Cape Falcon Trailhead, 46.7km away, both providing breathtaking views and outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

At Fort Stevens State Park, enjoy a night out at Liberty Theater for a mix of culture and romance, just 11.3km away. For family fun, head to Captain Kid Amusement Park, 24.1km away, or catch a show at Coaster Theatre, located 32.2km from the park.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park in Hammond, Oregon, offers a wealth of attractions for every type of traveller, from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the historic sites and railways within the park, while enjoying stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Ideal for family vacations, the park is surrounded by various nearby attractions, making it a perfect base for your adventures in this beautiful part of the United States.

  • Astoria Riverfront Trolley: This charming historic rail offers a delightful journey along the picturesque waterfront, providing stunning views of the Columbia River and the vibrant Astoria skyline. Experience the rich culture and history of the area while enjoying the leisurely pace of the ride.
  • Columbia River Maritime Museum: Dive into the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest at this fascinating museum. With exhibits showcasing shipwrecks, fishing heritage, and the region's naval history, it's a treasure trove for culture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  • Peter Iredale Shipwreck: Visit this haunting yet beautiful shipwreck, which has become a beloved coastal landmark. The rusting remains of the Peter Iredale offer a unique glimpse into maritime history and a stunning backdrop for photographs along the beach.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fort Stevens State Park

To save money during your visit to Fort Stevens State Park, consider travelling between November and January for lower accommodation rates, with Tuesdays being the cheapest days to stay. Avoid Saturdays, which are pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by sorting prices from lowest to highest and explore package deals that combine flights and accommodation for extra savings. Additionally, enjoy free activities like hiking and beach access, and look for affordable hotels near the beach to maximise your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fort Stevens State Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fort Stevens State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Fort Stevens State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Fort Stevens State Park accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.