Imagine standing at a place where Native American people encountered the Lewis and Clark Expedition on its westward journey.
On Oct. 16, 1805, the Corps of Discovery arrived at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers, the site of today's Sacajawea Historical State Park. They camped for two nights amidst a thriving community of Native American
As most Washingtonians know, a Shoshone woman named Sacagawea* was instrumental in the Expedition's success. Not only did she work alongside the men, she was an interpreter and an emissary of peace between the white explorers and Native American tribes.
Central to the park named for her is the Sacajawea Interpretive Center. Open April 1 to Oct. 31, (call 509 545-2361 for hours), the museum features interactive exhibits on the Corps of Discovery, Sacagawea and the Sahaptian-speaking tribes of the region. Stroll the green, tree-shaded grounds, and read the seven story circle installations by internationally known artist Maya Lin.
Once you've absorbed this fascinating history, head for the beach. Depending on the season, hundreds of birds flock to these inland waters, and boaters enjoy the two rivers, while kids play on the lawns and parents relax.
As evening falls, stand on the riverside, and picture the area as it must have been in 1805. If you weren't a Lewis and Clark buff before, you may find your curiosity piqued by this interesting park.
PARK FEATURES
Sacajawea Historical State Park is a 267-acre day-use park at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers.
ADA AMENITIES/FACILITIES
Restroom
Hiking trail
PICNIC & DAY-USE FACILITIES
The park offers one kitchen shelter with electricity and a large barbecue grill, one kitchen shelter without electricity, and 130 unsheltered picnic tables. One of the shelters can accommodate up to 200 people. For information or reservations, call the park office at (509) 545-2361.
ACTIVITIES
TRAILS
1.2 miles of hiking trails
0.5 mile ADA-accessible hiking trail
WATER ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
70 feet of moorage
200 feet of dock
Boating
Fishing (freshwater)
Personal watercraft use
Swimming
Watercraft launches (2)
Waterskiing
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Bird watching
Horseshoe pits (2)
Interpretive activities
Volleyball field
Wildlife viewing
BOATING FEATURES
The park has two watercraft launches and 200 feet of dock. The watercraft launches are in a small, protected lagoon.
Launching a boat at a state park requires one of the following:
An annual launch permit (Natural Investment Permit); or
An annual Discover Pass and a daily launch permit; or
A one-day Discover Pass and a daily launch permit.
CAMPSITE INFORMATION
Sacajawea is a day-use park, but it does have one Northwest Discovery Water Trail campsite. The water trail campsite is available on a first-come, first-served basis. It accommodates eight people and may only be used by those arriving by boat when traveling down the river (support vehicles are permitted). Groups larger than eight people may contact the park at (509) 545-2361 for more information. Overnight moorage is allowed year round, but restroom facilities are not available October through March.
