Fort Stevens State Park is tied for 3rd place in the size of Oregon State Parks, at 4,300 acres. It is quite varied. There is the military/historic section at the northernmost entrance. There are displays, foundations, buildings, bunkers, and gun emplacements from the Civil War (really) and WWII. Fort Stevens was fired upon during WWII.
The center entrance leads to the day use area. This goes to the far NW edge of the park and the South Jetty at the mouth of the Columbia River, wildlife viewing, including a nice platform, and several entrances to the long beach. Branching off from that road also are other beach access points, with the southernmost, near the wreck of the Peter Iredale, a beach that can be driven on by 4WD vehicles. Be wary walking on that beach, as not all drivers use their common sense. In season, clamming is popular.
The south entrance, off the highway, leads to the huge campground. I believe it's the largest state park campground. It's a nice one, with a playground and amphitheater. Despite its size, it is often full during the season. There are trails throughout the park, and they interconnect so that you can park or camp and visit the entire park from there. Great bike trails!
The center entrance leads to the day use area. This goes to the far NW edge of the park and the South Jetty at the mouth of the Columbia River, wildlife viewing, including a nice platform, and several entrances to the long beach. Branching off from that road also are other beach access points, with the southernmost, near the wreck of the Peter Iredale, a beach that can be driven on by 4WD vehicles. Be wary walking on that beach, as not all drivers use their common sense. In season, clamming is popular.
The south entrance, off the highway, leads to the huge campground. I believe it's the largest state park campground. It's a nice one, with a playground and amphitheater. Despite its size, it is often full during the season. There are trails throughout the park, and they interconnect so that you can park or camp and visit the entire park from there. Great bike trails!