I lived in the Northwest (Washington state specifically) for a few years, but even before I moved there, I went there to visit with friends several times and I have decided that one of the best things about the Northwest is all of the state parks and "outdoors" options. I don't even consider myself an "outdoors" person, but living up there, it was hard not to be. There is so much to see and do!
Fort Stevens was one of the first state parks that I visited up there and it still holds a place as the "favorite" in my heart. Maybe it's because I'm a history buff and it has a "historical basis." It was a coastal defense fort that "saw action" from the Civil War days through the end of World War II. You can see a historical shipwreck and wander through military barracks. There is a museum with various displays and during the summer, there are special events such as tours of an underground gun battery that served as a World War II command center and blacksmiths hard at work. There are hiking and biking trails as well as areas to have a picnic. It s also a great place to go camping!
You can go to Fort Stevens over and over again, and there will always be something new to see! Kids love walking along the beach and exploring the old barracks. There is a $3 day use fee to access the park. You can reserve campsites or get additional information about pricing online at: http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_179.php
more