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Oregon
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Oregon State Parks

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Oregon
Portland Area Region
Clatsop State Forest
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CLATSOP STATE FOREST
CLATSOP STATE FOREST
The Clatsop State Forest is a beautiful and diverse natural landscape that spans over 141,000 acres. It is characterized by its lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and an array of bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Additionally, the Clatsop State Forest boasts a network of hiking and biking trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure. Whether one is seeking solitude in the woods or engaging in thrilling outdoor activities, the Clatsop State Forest is an enchanting destination that showcases the rich natural beauty of Oregon.
History of the Area
- Early Native American Presence: The area around the Clatsop State Forest has a long history of human habitation. The Indigenous Clatsop and Nehalem tribes were the original inhabitants and relied on the forest for sustenance and resources.

- European Exploration: In 1805 and 1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition explored the Oregon coast and documented the presence of the Clatsop Indians near the mouth of the Columbia River. It was during this expedition that they first encountered the dense forests of the region.

- Exploitation and Settlement: In the mid-19th century, the Oregon Territory experienced rapid settlement. Euro-American pioneers established logging camps and began exploiting the timber resources, including within the Clatsop State Forest area. The region witnessed increased logging activity as demand for timber grew.

- Creation of the State Forest: In the early 20th century, concerns arose regarding the sustainability of logging practices and the future of Oregon's forests. As a response, the Oregon Legislature passed the Oregon Forest Reserve Act in 1913, paving the way for the establishment of state-owned forestlands. The Clatsop State Forest was one of the areas designated under this act.

- Management Practices: The management practices within the Clatsop State Forest have evolved over time. In the early decades, extensive timber harvesting took place, which affected the forest ecosystem. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards more sustainable and scientifically-based management practices aimed at restoring forest health, protecting wildlife habitat, and ensuring a sustainable flow of timber.

- Recreational Opportunities: Alongside timber production, the Clatsop State Forest also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Numerous trails, campgrounds, hunting areas, and fishing spots have been developed within the forest, attracting visitors who come to enjoy its natural beauty.
Camping
1. Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground: This campground offers 32 campsites with picnic tables, fire pits and a vault toilet facility.

2. Nicolai Mountain OHV Area: While this area is primarily used for off-highway vehicle riding, it also has camping facilities available.

3. Big Eddy Park & Campground: Located on the Nehalem River near Vernonia, this park includes RV sites as well as tent camping spots.

4. Gnat Creek Campgrounds: It's located along Highway 30 between Astoria and Portland offering primitive campsite options in Clatsop State Forest.

5. Burlington Campground: A small rustic site that can accommodate tents or smaller trailers/RVs.

6. Klootchy Creek County Park: Although not directly within the forest itself but close by; provides access to fishing opportunities.
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Fishing
In this lush woodland area, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options. The forest's rivers and streams are home to several species of fish including steelhead trout, coho salmon, chinook salmon and cutthroat trout. Anglers may choose from bank or boat fishing in the Nehalem River which is known for its winter run of steelhead. For those who prefer smaller water bodies, Gnat Creek offers excellent opportunities especially during spring when it becomes a hot spot for hatchery-reared smolt release.


Location
Clatsop State Forest is located near Saint Helens, Scappoose and Beaverton

Picnicking
Clatsop State Forest in Oregon offers a variety of picnicking options for visitors. There are several designated picnic areas throughout the forest, many equipped with tables and benches. Some sites also have barbecue grills available for use. The scenic surroundings provide an ideal backdrop to enjoy outdoor meals or snacks while taking in views of towering trees, lush greenery, and local wildlife. Visitors can choose from open spaces near trailheads or more secluded spots deeper within the forest's 154 square miles area.

Trails
1. Browns Camp Loop: This 7-mile loop trail is moderately trafficked and offers a variety of activities such as bird watching, wildflower viewing, and mountain biking.

2. Gales Creek Trail: A moderate level hiking path stretching over approximately 12 miles from Reehers Camp to Summit Road junction with scenic views of the forested landscape along Gales creek.

3. Storey Burn Trail: An intermediate-level hike that spans about four miles through lush greenery in Clatsop State Forest featuring beautiful wildflowers during springtime.

4. University Falls Hike: A short but steep two-mile round trip leading hikers to an impressive waterfall within Tillamook State Forest which borders Clatsop state forest on its south side.

5. Wilson River Wagon Road Hike: Approximately six mile long historic wagon road turned into a trail offering glimpses into Oregon's history alongside natural beauty like creekside forests and waterfalls.

6. Step Creek Trail - Kings Mountain Junior Route: Roughly three-and-a-half mile route starting at Elk Creek campground taking you up towards King's Mountain summit while crossing Step creek multiple times providing serene woodland experience.

7. Roger's Peak & Beacon Rock Trails: These are challenging trails for experienced hikers only due their high elevation gain; Roger's peak stands highest point in county whereas beacon rock provides panoramic view across Columbia river gorge area.

8. Elk-Kings Traverse: It covers around eleven-miles between Elk mountain & Kings mountains summits showcasing stunning vistas including Mount Hood, Mount Rainier etc. , also features some rugged terrains making it suitable for advanced trekkers.

9. Kingfisher Marsh Wildlife Viewing Area- Short half: a-mile boardwalk style accessible pathway ideal families or those seeking peaceful nature walk observing local wildlife species.

10. Nicoll Point Overlook: A less than one mile out-and-back type easy rated trek ending at viewpoint overlooking Nehalem river valley, perfect for sunset or sunrise views.

11. Saddle Mountain State Natural Area: Although not directly within Clatsop Forest boundaries, it's nearby and offers a challenging 5-mile round trip hike to the highest point in northwest Oregon with panoramic coastal range vistas.

12. Banks-Vernonia State Trail: A multi-use trail stretching over twenty miles through dense forested areas offering opportunities for hiking, biking & horseback riding; also features several trestle bridges adding unique charm.

13. Lee Wooden Fishhawk Falls Park: This park located near Jewell houses short but scenic trails leading towards beautiful waterfall known as fishhawk falls providing tranquil woodland experience.

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Directions
The Clatsop State Forest is located in northwest Oregon, approximately 10 miles southeast of Astoria. To reach the forest from Portland, follow US-26 W towards Seaside for about 70 miles until you reach Warrenton. From there, take a left onto OR-202 S and continue for about 7 miles before turning right onto Lewis and Clark Road.

Follow Lewis and Clark Road for another mile or so until you see signs indicating the entrance to Clatsop State Forest on your left-hand side. Turn into this entrance road (also known as Northrup Creek Road) which will lead you further into the forest.

Once inside the state forest, various roads branch out leading to different areas within its boundaries such as Klootchy Creek County Park or Nicolai Mountain Recreation Area. It's recommended to have a map handy or use GPS navigation if planning specific destinations within Clatsop State Forest.

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Oregon State Parks

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