Support the Fort Today!

Due to the federal government shutdown that began October 1, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is closed to the public. The following are not currently open or accessible:

• Fort Clatsop Visitor Center and parking area.

• Fort Clatsop Replica and parking area.

• Netul Landing and parking area.

• Restrooms and potable water.

The 13-mile round trip Fort to Sea Trail remains open. Use the designated parking area at Sunset Beach Wayside or the small lot off Fort Clatsop Road, near the Visitor Center turn-off. Visitors should be aware that while services are unavailable visitors are expected to protect park resources by following all regulations and “Leave No Trace” practices.

When Fort Clatsop and our other units close, the impact is felt far beyond the park gates. Families lose access to our amazing historical and natural resources, students lose a living classroom, and our community loses one of Clatsop County’s beautiful outdoor spaces.

For Lewis & Clark National Park Association (LCNPA), the shutdown brings an especially urgent challenge: the closure of the Fort Clatsop Bookstore inside the Visitor Center. The store is our primary source of revenue, and without it, LCNPA loses the critical funding that sustains education programs like Junior Rangers and traveling trunks, preservation projects like fort repairs, and community outreach through local events. Every day the park remains closed, the future of these programs is put at risk.

Here’s how you can support Fort Clatsop through the shutdown:

Donate today — every gift helps offset lost revenue and sustains LCNPA’s work.

Become a Member — consistent, reliable funding supports the park year-round.

Share the word — forward this email and remind your friends how cool that fourth grade field was!

Every act of support makes a difference. Together, we can help the park through this shutdown and ensure it is ready to welcome, inspire, and educate visitors when the gates re-open.

LCNPA was established in 1963 as a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization for the purpose of supporting National Park Service educational and interpretive activities at Fort Clatsop. The LCNPA receives no government grants, public funds, nor is it funded by any private endowment or foundation.

Our Mission: To promote Fort Clatsop and enhance the public’s understanding of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and its significance.

Thank you for supporting your National Historical Park!