Lewis and Clark State Park

Lewis and Clark State Park: Historic Old-Growth Forest Sanctuary with Equestrian Trails

Lewis and Clark State Park preserves one of the last major stands of lowland old-growth forest in Washington state, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience ancient Douglas fir and Western Red Cedar trees in a 616-acre camping park near Winlock. Established in 1922 as a “public camp” for automobile tourists, this historic park features rustic Civilian Conservation Corps buildings and welcomes both equestrians and hikers to explore 8 miles of trails through pristine forest corridors, wetlands, and along creek systems that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s original forest ecosystem.

Lewis and Clark State Park Fast Facts

Park Overview

Lewis and Clark State Park occupies one of Washington’s most significant old-growth forest preserves, representing the largest tract of ancient forest contained within the state park system when it was established. Located six miles northeast of Winlock, the park began as a 520 acre preserve announced by the state park board in May 1922, with Governor Louis F. Hart dedicating the grounds on September 23, 1922. The park operates under a 1921 legislative resolution requiring it to remain as a natural wooded area, ensuring permanent protection of this irreplaceable ecosystem.

The park’s ancient forest faced significant challenges during the Columbus Day Storm of 1962, which destroyed two-thirds of the old-growth trees, reducing the forest from 13.5 million board feet to just 5 million. However, recovery areas now demonstrate forest regeneration, while remaining old growth sections continue to provide visitors with authentic experiences among massive Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar specimens. Lewis and Clark State Park serves as both a natural sanctuary and historical preservation site, maintaining Civilian Conservation Corps structures built during the 1930s that exemplify rustic park architecture.

Activities & Recreation

Facilities & Amenities

Lewis and Clark State Park provides comprehensive facilities including 24 standard campsites, 8 full-hookup back-in sites, and 1 primitive hiker-biker campsite, plus 5 equestrian campsites available first come, first served with horse loading area. The park features two group day-use kitchen shelters, one accommodating up to 50 guests with electricity, water and fireplace, and another smaller shelter with electricity and water available first come, first served for up to 25 people.

The Lewis and Clark Lodge serves as a unique group accommodation, sleeping 24 people with a 22-bed bunkroom, two bedrooms with full-size futons, mess hall, wood stove, and full-service kitchen for up to 50 guests. Additional amenities include a day use community hall for 50 guests, outdoor amphitheater, playfield with swing set, three horseshoe pits, 2 restrooms and 2 showers. The park maintains half a mile of interpretive trail plus 8 miles of hiking trails, with 5 miles designated for equestrian use.

Camping & Accommodations

The park offers diverse camping options including 24 standard campsites and 8 full hookup sites suitable for various camping preferences, plus 1 primitive hiker-biker site. Equestrian visitors can access 5 primitive horse campsites on a first-come, first served basis, with dedicated horse loading areas and direct trail access. A group camp accommodates up to 50 people with water, picnic tables, stoves, fire ring and vault toilets.

The distinctive Lewis and Clark Lodge provides group accommodation for up to 50 guests with indoor sleeping for 24 people, featuring a 22-bed bunkroom with adjoining restrooms and showers, plus a private bedroom with full futon sofa bed. The lodge includes a mess hall, cozy wood stove, and fully equipped kitchen with dining area. Camping check-in time is 2:30 p.m., check-out is 1 p.m., with quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Planning Your Visit

Lewis and Clark State Park operates with seasonal hours from 8 a.m. to dusk during the main season, with day-use and main campground closed October 1 through April 30. The Lewis and Clark Lodge remains open year-round for group reservations. A Discover Pass is required for day-use parking. The park’s location on Jackson Highway provides easy access from Interstate 5 and US Highway 12, making it convenient for both regional visitors and travelers.

Spring through fall offers optimal conditions for hiking and horseback riding through the old-growth forest, with interpretive opportunities highlighting both natural and cultural history. The nearby Jackson House State Park Heritage Site provides additional historical context, representing the first American pioneer home built north of the Columbia River. Visitors should note that pets are not allowed in the Vacation Lodge or within the lodge complex.

What to Bring and Know

• The park preserves remnants of the historic Cowlitz Trail with visible wagon grooves from pioneer settlers who built ramps over massive downed logs
• Despite the name, Lewis and Clark never visited this area, though the park honors their exploration legacy in the broader Pacific Northwest
• The 1962 Columbus Day Storm recovery areas provide unique educational opportunities to observe forest regeneration alongside ancient trees
• Equestrian facilities require reservations for organized rides, while primitive horse campsites operate first-come, first-served
• CCC-era buildings throughout the park showcase 1930s rustic architecture and craftsmanship that remains functional today

Final Word

Lewis and Clark State Park offers an irreplaceable journey through Washington’s natural and cultural heritage, preserving ancient forests and pioneer history in one of the state’s most significant old-growth sanctuaries.