Near the mouth of the Columbia River in the far southwest corner of Washington State, is the little town of Chinook. Chinook has an interesting history and was once visited by Lewis and Clark during their travels.
The Fort Columbia State Park is both a scenic and historical park. This fort, along the Columbia River, was in operation from 1896 to 1947. Located within Fort Columbia State Park is an interpretive trail, a small museum, and good opportunities for birdwatching.
The little community of Ilwaco is located in the far southwestern corner of Washington Sate, along the Pacific Ocean just north of the mouth of the Columbia River. Ilwaco is primarily a fishing port but there is much history in the area to explore. Nearby attractions include Cape Disappointment State Park and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
Cape Disappointment State Park, formerly known as Fort Canby State Park, is located along the Pacific Ocean with approximately 45km / 27mi of ocean front. The park has two lighthouses, North Head Lighthouse and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, as well as walking trails. The Cape Disappointment State Park also hosts events throughout the year so be sure to check ahead to see what's happening.
The Ilwaco Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum is a great place to visit to learn about the history of the town and the local area. The museum is divided into theme rooms, some of which include Native American history, Fur Traders, Natural History, the Columbia River Estuary, and more.
Oysterville is located near the northern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula. The town was settled in the mid 1800s after it was discovered the area was rich in oysters. Oysterville was a boom town but the oyster supplies eventually dwindled, as did the town's population. The town is listed on the Register of National Historic Districts and visitors come here largely for the scenery.
The Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, on Willapa Bay, protects spawning habitat for fish, stopping areas for migratory birds, and areas used by harbor seals for pupping. The area includes shoreline, dunes, sand bars, marshlands, mud flats, beaches, grasslands, and forest. The Willapa National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for wildlife observation, particularly during the spring or fall.