Dismal Nitch Rest Area SR 401 Multidirectional: Where Lewis and Clark Got Stuck
Dismal Nitch Rest Area SR 401 Multidirectional at mile marker 1 sits where Lewis and Clark camped for five miserable days in 1805 when bad weather trapped them just short of reaching the Pacific Ocean. Located 10 miles south of Naselle near the big Columbia River bridge to Oregon, this rest area has basic facilities plus a short walking trail with signs about the expedition and views across the river to Astoria. The name “Dismal Nitch” comes from Clark’s journal describing how awful those five days were – cold, wet, and stuck.
Dismal Nitch Rest Area SR 401 Multidirectional Fast Facts
| Feature |
Detail |
| Location |
Near Megler, Pacific County, Washington |
| Highway |
SR 401 Multidirectional |
| Mile Marker |
MP 1 |
| Status |
Open – basic facilities working |
| Key Features |
Lewis & Clark historic site, Columbia River views, short trail |
| Limitations |
Remote location, highway noise, limited nearby services |
| GPS Coordinates |
46.24979, -123.85880 |
What Works Here
The restrooms work and there’s drinking water, which matters since you’re pretty far from anywhere else. Picnic tables face the Columbia River with views across to Astoria and the massive bridge. Both directions of SR 401 can use the same facility.
A short trail leads to signs explaining the Lewis and Clark story and a monument marking roughly where they camped. Takes about 15 minutes to walk if you’re interested. The Columbia River views include big cargo ships heading to and from the Pacific, and the scenery is decent when weather cooperates.
Many people use this for overnight RV stops since it’s legal and relatively peaceful after dark, despite posted time limits that don’t seem to get enforced much.
What Doesn’t Work
Highway noise from SR 401 and bridge traffic carries across the area, though it does quiet down at night. The remote location means you’re driving quite a while to find gas, food, or anything else you might need.
Wind whips across this open spot regularly, and Columbia River weather changes fast. If you’re not into Lewis and Clark history, the trail is just a short walk with some signs – nothing spectacular.
Planning Your Stop
SR 401 connects US 101 to the bridge into Oregon, so it gets tourists and people crossing between states. Summer brings more traffic, winter can be stormy. This works as a stopping point if you’re exploring Lewis and Clark sites or just need a break near the Oregon border.
The remote Pacific County location means planning ahead for supplies. Stock up before heading out here since services are sparse.
Traveler Tips
• Walk the trail if you care about Lewis and Clark history; skip it if you don’t
• Bring wind protection; this spot gets breezy regularly
• Stock up on gas and supplies beforehand – nearest services are far away
• Good for overnight RV camping despite posted time limits
• Clear days offer better river views; cloudy weather matches the “dismal” theme
• Consider Fort Clatsop nearby if you’re doing the full Lewis and Clark tourist thing
What Travelers Say
History fans like the Lewis and Clark connection and the signs explaining what happened here. The Columbia River views get mentioned positively, especially seeing Astoria from this side.
RV folks use this regularly for overnight stops, noting it feels safe and generally quiet after traffic dies down. Several mention the irony that the “dismal” place actually has nice river views most of the time.
Multiple people warn about the remote location and recommend stocking up on supplies before arriving, since there’s nothing nearby for miles.
