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Washington
12

Washington State Parks

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USA Parks
Washington
Volcano Country Region
Lewis and Clark State Park
Lewis and Clark State Park © Robert Ashworth from Bellingham, WA., USA / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nice place to camp.
Lewis and Clark State Park © Robert Ashworth from Bellingham, WA., USA / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In Lewis and Clark State Park one of the few lowland old growth forest preserves. With 2 ancient Western Redcedar Thuja plicata trees.Along I-5, south of Centralia, Washington between Seattle and Portland.
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LEWIS AND CLARK STATE PARK
LEWIS AND CLARK STATE PARK
4583 Jackson Highway
Toledo, Washington   98591
(lat:46.5219 lon:-122.8145) map location

Phone: 360-864-2643
Lewis and Clark State Park is a 621-acre camping park situated in one of the last major stands of old-growth forest in the state. Coniferous trees, streams, wetlands, dense vegetation and wet prairie comprise the park environment. The park contains a vast stand of rare old-growth forest. It is a Civilian Conservation Corps park, and many of the buildings constructed by the corps remain in use today.
History of the Area
Lewis and Clark State Park, which is actually separate from the Lewis and Clark Trail, began as a "public camp" for automobile tourists in 1922. Two years later, more than 10,000 people visited the park annually.

The old north spur of the Oregon Trail, which extended from the Cowlitz River landing to the city of Tumwater, passed directly through the present park site. When pioneers used this road, ramps had to be built over some of the downed logs (six to nine feet in diameter), since they had no saws capable of cutting the giants.

The park has a unique stand of old-growth forest, primarily Douglas fir and red cedar. It is one of the last old-growth forest stands remaining along Hwy. 99. Two-thirds of the old-growth trees were blown down in the 1962 Columbus Day Storm (8.5 million board feet of the original 13.5 million). The park was closed for three years to make repairs and plant trees.

Located nearby, the John R. Jackson House was the first American pioneer home built north of the Columbia River. It was constructed in 1845 by the man for whom it is named. The original house has deteriorated completely. The current log cabin was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The Jackson family has donated some original pioneer artifacts, which are on display at the cabin.
Passes
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.
Camping
The park has 25 tent spaces, two restrooms and two showers. Maximum site length is 60 feet (may have limited availability). All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Group Accommodations: Two group camps are reservable by calling the park office at (360) 864-2643. Prices vary with size of the group. The camps have a 50 person capacity and include running water, tables, stoves, fire ring and vault toilets.

Check-in time is 2:30 p.m., and check-out time is 1 p.m.Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.Engine-driven electric generators may be operated only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.Length of stay: You may stay up to ten consecutive days in any one park during the summer; the stay limit is extended to 20 days between Oct. 1 and March 31.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the freshwater lake, teeming with species like rainbow trout and largemouth bass. The park also offers a variety of salmon including Chinook, Coho, and Pink Salmon during certain seasons. Fishing equipment rentals are available on-site for convenience. A valid Washington state fishing license is required to fish within the park's boundaries.


Location
Lewis and Clark State Park is located near Centralia, Chehalis

Picnicking
The park provides two kitchen shelters with electricity, fireplaces and running water. One is available on a first-come, first-served basis, while the other is reservable by calling the park office at (360) 864-2643.
Trails
1. Beacon Rock Trail: A 2-mile round trip trail that leads to the top of a massive rock formation, offering panoramic views of Columbia River Gorge.

2. Hamilton Mountain Trail: This challenging 7.5 miles loop offers stunning vistas and waterfalls along with wildflower meadows in springtime.

3. Hardy Ridge Loop Hike: An approximately 8-mile hike featuring beautiful forest scenery and spectacular mountain views at its peak point.

4. Strawberry Island Loop Hike: Easy level hiking path around an island on the Columbia river; perfect for bird watching or picnicking by the riverside.

5. Equestrian Trails: Over five miles dedicated specifically for horseback riding through lush forests and open grasslands within park boundaries.

6. The Cape Horn Lookout Point: Short but steep half mile climb leading up to breathtaking view over entire state park area including mountains, valleys, lakes & wildlife sightings possible too!

7. Bonneville Dam Walkway: Paved pathway suitable even for wheelchairs/strollers providing close-up look at Bonneville dam operations plus chance spotting migrating salmon if season right!

8. Pacific Crest National Scenic Long Distance Path: Part this famous long:distance route passes directly through Lewis Clark State Park giving hikers opportunity experience part iconic American wilderness journey without needing commit months trekking time!

9. Hardy Falls And Pool Of Winds Viewpoint Track: Just under two:miles return walk taking you past cascading waterfall into hidden grotto where winds whip up spray creating unique natural spectacle worth seeing firsthand!

10. Rodney Falls Spur Route: Branching off main Hamilton Mountain track short detour brings visitors face:to-face another impressive cascade nestled deep amongst verdant woodland surroundings making it ideal spot cool down during hot summer hikes!
Bicycling
Within this natural haven, biking enthusiasts can explore a variety of trails. Be aware that some paths may be challenging.

The park offers 8 miles of bike-friendly routes for all skill levels. Always wear protective gear when cycling.

For those seeking an easy ride, the Discovery Trail is ideal but requires caution due to occasional pedestrian traffic and wildlife sightings.

Advanced cyclists might prefer the more rugged terrain found on other trails in the area; however, these require careful navigation skills and preparation beforehand.

Remember: always respect nature by staying on designated pathways while exploring via bicycle within this scenic location's boundaries.

Ensure you have adequate water supplies as well as emergency repair kits for your bikes before embarking upon any trail journey here.

Lastly, keep in mind that weather conditions could affect trail accessibility - plan accordingly to ensure safe riding experiences at all times.
Guided Tours
There is a self-guided half-mile interpretive trail in the park, featuring information on the park's old growth forest.

Jackson House tours are available year-round by appointment. Call (360) 864-2643.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with species like the Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker and Steller's Jay. Other birds include American Robins, Black-capped Chickadees and Dark-eyed Juncos. Birders might also spot Varied Thrushes or Red-breasted Sapsuckers in this area.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
October 1
park review stars; one to five Great spot, we stayed as our last family camping trip of the year 9-30-17 left 10-1-17 we even saw a beautiful Owl...
June 19 horse trails by theresagbs
park review stars; one to five I really love riding on them. I wish they were open this year.
June 28 the park is beautiful ! so natural !! by sue peha
park review stars; one to five what a beautiful nice clean park and the natural beauty is what makes it so appealing its what every park should look like! great job to the employees its so relaxing and georgeous. thanks !
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Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Located 12 miles south of Chehalis, Wash., on the I-5 corridor in Lewis County.

From I-5: Take exit # 68, and head east on Hwy. 12 about 2.5 miles. At Jackson Hwy., turn right, heading south. Continue about two miles to park entrance.

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Washington
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Washington State Parks

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