Tillamook Forest Center
The Experience: Next time you and your family are headed to the coast, or if you’re just in the mood for a day trip, check out the Tillamook Forest Center. About an hour from Portland on Highway 6, the Forest Center is beautifully situated right on the Wilson River, in the middle of the Tillamook State Forest.

Completed in 2006 to teach visitors about the forest and its history, the whole facility still looks brand-spanking new.

My kids loved climbing up to the top of the replica of a 40-foot fire lookout tower, located just outside of the center. You can even go inside the tower to get a closer look at what the life of a fire lookout was really like – there’s not a lot room, nor many amenities, but the views are great.

Inside the center itself are exhibits on the Tillamook Indians and early homesteaders, as well as the history of the Tillamook Burn and the reforestation that followed it. Watch an award-winning short film about the burn and listen to audio tapes about the heroic reforestation efforts following the burn.

Kids can look at a stream model illustrating the life cycle of salmon, and study a nurse log. My nine-year-old especially liked the Tillamook train depot and stagecoach stop inside the museum. Outside kids marveled at the Tunnel Creek Steam Donkey, a logging engine which was used in the area for many years.
Insider info: Leave time for a hike in the forest and a picnic by the glorious Wilson River.

The 411
Recommended ages: Recommend for all ages, though younger kids may enjoy running around outside more than looking at the indoor exhibits.
Hours: Vary with the seasons; check website for current information.
Cost: Free.
Location/Directions: The Tillamook Forest Center is about 50 miles west of Portland on Highway 6 (the Wilson River Highway).
Contact information:866-930-4646

July 2nd, 2010 | Category: Family Fun Home, Family Fun Reviews, Uncategorized