Fort Vancouver National Historic Site - Vancouver, Washington - Located Along the Columbia River and Home to a Wide Variety of Species

Fort Vancouver is located along the north side of the Columbia River in Vancouver, Washington. The history of Fort Vancouver is an interesting piece. It was known as the headquarters and primary supply headquarters for the fur trading operations. Today the national park provides stories, collections, and education about its unique history, allowing for visitors to make personal connections to the people, places, and events of the past.

Guided tours are available throughout the park. An audio tour offers the foundational history and information at the park. There are also self-guided tours for visitors who want to explore at their own pace and guided house tours escorted by docents and staff members. It is recommended that guests call in advance for guided tour scheduling.

The park is open all year around and approximately 360 days out of the year. The park is closed on January 1, November 25, and December 24, 25, and 31. Operating hours change twice a year when daylight savings time takes place. The park's summer hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and begins in the second week of March. The park's winter hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and begin the first week of November. The entrance fee is minimal at just $3.00 per individual and $5.00 per family, and is valid for one week or seven days. During the summer months a fee collector is located on site to collect money, but in the winter season a self-service fee station is set up at the contact station inside the fort. Honor system applies.

Traveling to Fort Vancouver is convenient from Interstate 5 (I-5). From the interstate, take Mill Plain Boulevard exit and head east. Turn south onto Fort Vancouver Way. At the traffic circle, travel east on Evergreen Boulevard and follow the signs to the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center. Parking is available in the designated parking lots at the Visitor Center. During special events and due to increase traffic, visitors are encouraged to park in the public spaces on East Fifth Street. Reservations are not required at the park but during peak seasons are recommended. For school groups interested in visiting the park, reservations are necessary.

Some of the nature that surrounds the park is spectacular still providing to this day many natural resources as abundant lumber, fish, game and fresh water, river access, and acreage for agriculture. Oregon oak trees are prevalent in the area and provide a unique atmosphere for wild animals. The prairie type landscape is a great place for elk, deer, acorn productions, and much more. Today the park is surrounded by commercial, industrial, and residential developments but many of the animals have adapted to the park's environment. Coyotes have adapted to the change over the years and can be easily viewed near the fort throughout the year. The park houses 18 species of mammals, over 82 species of birds, and 28 species of fish to this day.