The local state park, Fort Stevens, is a gift — literally.

Sometime in the years preceding 1960, Clatsop County gifted nearly 800 acres of natural space in Warrenton. Over the following years that land was bolstered by other gifts, leases and purchases from the county, local school district, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and private landowners. That land, now standing at 4,247 acres, become Fort Stevens State Park, the fourth largest state park in Oregon.

History today

Fort Stevens holds a great deal of history to be explored, with Battery Russell and the Peter Iredale Shipwreck being iconic favorites. But there are additional sites including the War Games Building and Battery Pratt and the Civil War Fort in the northeast corner of the park, both which offer valuable, interactive glimpses at history.

Home away from home

Over the years Fort Stevens has served as one of my favorite local recreation spots, primarily due to its versatility. There are nine miles of paved trails perfect for bicycling or jogging. Coffenbury Lake is wonderful for swimming, boating and fishing. The lake features a loop trail that is tough to beat for scenery, solitude and wildlife viewing. I’ve even camped at the site, despite living nearby, and for the evening was one of the average 700 people that call Ft. Stevens “home” each night.

Fire Control Hill Trail

Despite my robust knowledge of the park, it continues to impress. I recently explored the Fire Control Hill Trail, which runs southwest from Battery Russell.

After a quick walk around Battery Russell, follow the trail that was once traveled by the soldiers that stood guard when Ft. Stevens received shellfire from a Japanese submarine in June 1942.

The area of the park is also monikered “Squirrelsville,” which I thought was because of the abundance of the squirrels I saw along the trail. The truth is a bit more historic — apparently the name refers to the quick rotation of soldiers who were stationed nearby.

The nitty gritty

The hike features some modest elevation changes but is mostly flat, well-footed and beautiful, even in damp months. The total length is approximately two miles. Parking is available and abundant at the Battery Russell parking lot and the trailhead is easy to find. Day use parking is only $5, but I’d strongly suggest that you purchase a 12-month or 24-month pass and take advantage of this wonderful and local natural resource as much as you can.

First free day

If you aren’t sure about that investment, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will offer free access to state parks on Jan. 1. Users can take advantage of the access to the park and register for a guided hike on the Fire Control Hill Trail with park staff who will offer insight to participants along the way. The guided hike is free and begins at 10 a.m. with registration available on the Oregon State Parks website.

What better way to start your year off than with a hike in one of our most precious resources? Check out Fort Stevens State Park.

Free day at Fort Stevens State Park

All day Wednesday 

Fort Stevens, 100 Peter Iredale Rd., Hammond

Free admission and guided hikes