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Pacific Ocean beaches here are among the most beautiful in the country with ample opportunities for camping, beachcombing, picnicking and relaxing. Vehicles are allowed on most of the beach in Warrenton. The South Jetty, at the point where the river meets the ocean, provides a great opportunity for viewing both and is popular during winter for stormwatching. Nearby Cullaby Lake is a great place to water ski and picnic. Paddle boats and canoes are available at Coffenbury Lake. |
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Warrenton is home to three marinas: The city-run Hammond Marina, where portions of the movie, “Free Willy,” were filmed; Warrenton Mooring Basin, which also is operated by the city; and Skipanon Marina, a privately run marina adjacent to the boat basin. Several full-service charter boat companies offer river cruises, ecotours, fishing and crabbing. For boat moorage information, contact the city of Warrenton at 503-861-3822. |
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The marinas |
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The ocean, the river and beyond |
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Photo courtesy Oregon State Parks |
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Places to See and Things to Do |
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The winter headquarters of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery is in Warrenton. A replica of the fort was destroyed by fire in 2006 and completely rebuilt by volunteers. For the 200th anniversary of the explorers’ visit in 2005-06, Congress included Fort Clatsop in the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, which includes numerous sites in Oregon and Washington near the mouth of the Columbia River. |
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City and state officials, along with residents and volunteers, are working on plans to expand the city’s trail system. The Waterfront Trail was completed in 2006, running along the Skipanon and Columbia rivers. The 6.5-mile Fort to Sea Trail runs from Fort Clatsop, under Highway 101,and to the ocean. In addition, Fort Stevens State Park includes 12 miles of paved bicycle, walking and equestrian trails. |
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Warrenton is perfectly situated at both the mouth of the Columbia River and along the Pacific Coast. It is the perfect place to pitch a tent or park an RV and relax and enjoy the scenery. But there also are many things to see and do for those inclined to be more active. While Warrenton’s neighbor and sister city, Astoria, is better known, many of the area’s best attractions are actually found within Warrenton’s city limits. Hunting, fishing and “discovery” are Warrenton’s watchwords.. |
Why Lewis & Clark slept here |
Where to go and what to do |
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Fort Stevens was built by the U.S. Army in 1863, during the Civil War. It remained in service, protecting the region, through the end of World War II, when it was deactivated. Oregon State Parks acquired the fort in 1975. In addition to the historical area, the park includes campgrounds, the Peter Iredale shipwreck, South Jetty and Coffenbury Lake. It is popular for birdwatching, picnicking and other recreation. |
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Hiking trails & scenic places |
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Photo by Don Ellis |
