Fort Stevens Behind the Scenes

Travel across Young’s Bay Bridge for the short journey to Fort Stevens State Park. Once you arrive a friendly and knowledgeable guide will take you on a tour of this nearly 146-year-old fort and share its fascinating history. Built by the U.S. Army in the waning days of the Civil War it may seem odd that Oregon could have been the site of a battle or two. But the U.S. government was fearful that the British would join the Confederates, so the fort was established to protect the North from a possible English invasion. And to protect it from a land attack, the fort was surrounded by a moat with a drawbridge. Today, the gun batteries, fortifications and other buildings are preserved along with 3,700 acres of woodlands, lakes, wetlands and beaches. Your guide will continue to lead you through the complex and its bunkers, abandoned gun batteries, and tower stations before heading up to the commander's station for a scenic view of the Columbia River. Then, you'll venture underground to the Battery Mishler. Here, during WWII, 10 inch rifles were mounted on disappearing carriages, which hid the guns behind concrete and earthen walls when not being fired. These powerful guns could fire 617-pound shells at a distance of nine miles. The museum will be your last stop before heading back to the pier. Enjoy browsing through the interesting artifacts that date back to the Civil War and stop in at the gift shop, which offers a variety of souvenirs commemorating your visit.